Recommended by Paul Donnelly

Well that was absolutely bizarre, but compellingly imagined and hysterically executed. Robbie Ray and Loodie start out seeming like a typical couple from a honky-tonk, love gone wrong melody, but turn out to be something else entirely. Something else. Entirely. Their overwhelming mutual attraction makes them irresistible to one another and the lunatic energy of this play makes them irresistible to us.

Can a couple of strangers forced into an arranged marriage find love with one another? Luck of the Draw explores this question with warmth and humor and a little spikiness around the edges. Both members of this couple are so engaging and clearly drawn that I can't help but wish them well despite the arbitrariness of their pairing.

Who knew being turned down for the Prom could be life-altering in a good way? This charming tribute to real friendship is as engaging as it is ultimately uplifting.

What a lovely celebration of a vital, if fleeting, moment of connection. Together at their 10 year high school reunion, Mike and Alyssa would seem to have little in common except for a bit of shared history that he can't remember. But she expresses her thanks for the moment he inadvertently saved her life and he is able to feel some sense of connection. They each return to their lives better off for this encounter,

What a splendid bit of misdirection! I was SURE this piece was headed in one direction when a clever twist took it in quite another.

This is a heartbreaking depiction of human stupidity. Or is it genuine cruelty? In either case, a woman's effort to save a struggling pigeon is undone by her heedless male companion. Surprisingly moving for so short a play.

Meg and Charlie are quarantined together, yet apart. Charlie's frustration focuses on the apart. Meg's contentment focuses on the together. When an outsider comes to tell them that it's safe to come out, Meg is fearful while Charlie is eager. We see what happens when one of them emerges from their bubble and we are left questioning the motives and veracity of the outsider. There is wonderful world building here, specific and resonant.

All roads may lead to Rome, but some are bumpier than others. This comedic and honest exploration of the repercussions of a seemingly straightforward (see what I did there?) invitation reveals family dynamics and socio-economic differences that create a real conflict. I have to admit that I'm with Kellie on this one. I would love to see how the trip pans out!

The Uninvited is a virulent and persistent visitor and is depicted with great power and insight in this resonant monologue. The narrator's description of their spouse's battle suggests the degree of struggle they will face in overcoming the Uninvited. Christopher Plumridge is to be saluted for this honest and harrowing revelation of his own experience. An experience many of us have shared.

What do we owe the people we've loved? How responsible are we for our effects on a friend's life? This finely rendered coming of age story presents these questions without providing easy answers. This is so much more than a standard queer coming of age story, although it explores that story brilliantly. Lee and Shawn are richly drawn and complex young men with most compelling journeys.