Recommended by Lisa Kenner Grissom

"Close Distance Disappearing Acts" invites us on a wild ride-along with two serial killers - mentor and mentee at first, whose ongoing relationship takes twists and turns that are theatrical, engaging, and surprising. I love this genre mash-up of a darkly comedic serial killer rom-com with heaps of action. The relationship between the two characters is layered and fun, the dialogue is on-point, and Seinuk delivers a great twist at the end. Would love to see this play on its feet!

Barrett’s ambitious, theatrical, cinematic play challenges us to reckon with the legacy of Stanley Kubrick as emblematic of “white male genius artists” whose complicated reputations are preserved - but to what end? Barrett forces us to confront these questions just as her characters force each other to do. This play is chock full of timely questions about art, commerce, and the role of AI. There are many aspects of the play that feel “impossible” in the best way. I can’t wait to see this one staged.

Jennie Webb's writing invites us to meet the moments of our lives in ways that makes us think and feel deeply..."Women, Birds, Stars" is another of her plays that has this profound effect. We are invited into a communal space where four women must navigate their own sense of loss as the world becomes less and less stable. This highly theatrical piece feels zeitgeisty in the best way, reminding us that we are not alone. Isn't that what great theatre is for?

What I love about this play is how Wellman deals head-on with the very serious subject of sexual abuse and its aftermath in a truthful, messy, and surprisingly comedic way. Balancing an ensemble while also breathing life into each character is no easy feat and Wellman does so masterfully. "We're Trying to Heal!" feels real and intense and urgent in the best way - I look forward to seeing this piece come to life on stage soon.

When two young “journalists” are kidnapped in a foreign land, then returned to the U.S. years later, they can't know what awaits them. The world has changed, and friends and family have moved on in unexpected ways. Each must reckon with who they are now, and consider the consequences of their actions. Wellman deftly explores the complicated dynamics of those who were in captivity, and those left behind. This play has exciting theatrical possibilities - I’d love to see it staged!