Recommended by Paul Donnelly

Preach, Ethan, preach! This is an effective portrayal of the journey from pride in self-control to the self-loathing that comes from loss of control and body-image shaming to a final sense of empowerment and self-acceptance. Ethan is an infinitely relatable person and his ultimate realization is heartening.

The spare, taught dialogue of the exchanges between these two couples contains such depth of feeling, of blame and guilt, of shattering loss. This play confronts the honest truth that In the face of such a loss there is no peace, no closure to be found.

What a complex exploration of identity and performative identity. Kate's callow questions are understandably discomforting to Kai and should be to us as an audience.

What a delightful holiday confection. Taylor's faith in Santa is touching, if a tad greedy. Alyssa's response to her confession is appropriately layered and complex. Taylor's unseen parents are very present and an integral part of her narrative. This play has a clear premise, an engaging development, and a clever resolution.

This is a tender and moving portrait of two young men moving haltingly then hurtlingly to self-acceptance. This story and these two characters will ring true to anyone who dealt with feelings of difference or fear of revelation in adolescence. The grammar lesson framework is quite novel and engaging.

Achingly true to that moment of self-discovery where who Wade realizes he is is something he desperately don't want to be. Wade's seemingly callow mother offers a moving sort of acceptance, ultimately allowing Wade to come to terms with his new-found sense of self. This play is also very funny and very theatrical in its staging possibilities.

All is Calm offers a painful exploration of the cost of truths left unspoken between two friends. Lest that make the play sound grim and dreary, it is anything but. There are delicious flashes of wit leading up to the nearly frenzied non-declarations. I found myself deeply invested in and heart-broken by their ultimate failure to connect.

A seemingly humorous take on the typical family Christmas newsletter becomes a powerful and resonant reflection on the meaning of family and holidays and connection with a surprising reveal.

From the witty opening visual to the final bit of wordplay, this is a hysterical romp through the lighter side of Death. The exhilarating verbal comedy is matched by the escalating physical comedy. All four characters are clearly defined and each contributes to the true hilarity of this piece.

A highly theatrical send-up of old-timey abstinence indoctrination films and the hypocrisy of the film maker. It's scathingly funny right up to the last wonderful line.