Recommended by Paul Donnelly

"The truth will set you free" if by "free" you mean divorced. The couple at the center of this very funny play learn the value of a little strategic dishonesty. Fortunately, their bond seems strong enough to survive a volley of unpleasant truths.

When you're made from "stardust and dreams," you may miss a critical detail when building Santa a mate. This riotous comedy is filled with witty lines and a deftly set-up central dilemma. The payoff had me shaking with laughter, rather like I was made of jello.

The mystery of the liminal space surrounding Margaret and Stephen draws us into this compelling reflection on aging and connection. The highly theatrical use of props and sound add to our sense of engagement and to the mystery of the piece. The heightened language contributes to a sense of other-worldliness. All the elements work together to suggest a definition of the space and contribute to the satisfaction of the whole experience. And it is a highly satisfying and compelling experience.

As if it isn't enough that Mina faces all the anxieties of a new student in a new school, layered over with casual bigotry, she finds herself propelled into the meta-universe of a play she doesn't know she's in. The disorientation of being othered is capture perfectly in this narrative. The play makes important points about diversity and inclusion with pointed wit.

Hysterical. Absolutely hysterical. This wonderous spoof effectively tackles hackneyed exposition, genre conventions, desperate meta-theatricality, and melodramatic resolutions with compelling aplomb. A witty Star Wars reference is the cherry on this delicious comic sundae!

The sexy set up leads to a date being ruined by the most horrific of interlopers. But doesn't desire just conquer all! This is a riotously funny look at very skewed family dynamics and dating protocol.

What seems to be a benign interview of the members of a long-standing quilting circle evolves into something darker and richer in this surprising narrative. It turns out that the members of the circle are bound by so much more than quilting. I found myself thoroughly in support of their real M.O. as the young reporter is welcomed into the circle.

The very real issue of finding the balance between needed care and respected autonomy for an aging parent is presented with a light and deft touch in this most engaging comedy. I think Michael, the caregiver, may prove to be good for both mother and daughter.

Breaking cycles of despair and of abandonment is the hoped for outcome of this magical exploration of the difficulty of motherhood. These women share painful truths that aren't acknowledged enough in the world. I was left with the hope that Bridget would find the resources to cope with her severe post-partum depression as she makes her final decision in the play.

This book club without the book is a vital gathering of authentic friends. There is so much humor and warmth in their interactions and so much needed support at the final reveal. Toss in a talking vagina and you have a unique and authentic celebration of female friendship.