Recommended by Paul Donnelly

Pedro is a man on a mission. A complex man with a complex backstory on supernatural mission. The great humor in this piece is given weight by the underlying political and socioeconomic issues that are hard to ignore. This is fun with a heart and a point.

A lot of big emotions are dealt with sensitively and honesty as Oliver and Charlotte suffer through a wedding reception. The source of Oliver's discomfort is explored quite movingly and his final faux pas is completely understandable and rings true.

What a brisk little comedy of escalating misunderstanding. A simple question sets off a chain of philosophical musings that become progressively more hysterical (in both senses). It all ends with a witty kicker.

And now we know how clueless narcissists handle the end of human existence. The laugh out loud moments come fast, furious, and frequently in this brief comic gem. The answer to the question, "Where is Iowa?" neatly skewers coastal pretentions. And I will never look at Tuesdays the same way again.

What a gripping and suspenseful character study. My chest is still tight from the tension this piece induced. Abe is a compelling and unique, if horrifying, individual and his story is as riveting as it is disturbing. Masterfully done.

The derivation of the title is a hoot and a half and Eileen keeps us on tenterhooks with her maddening digressions on the way to what Christopher hopes will be the big reveal.

A tense dispute between two spies for the French Resistance is triggered by a horrific revelation. The thread of sexism that runs through the piece only adds to the tension and raises the stakes. A truly stirring narrative.

A truly hilarious spoof of a popular board game, of detective fiction, and of academic pretention. Not to mention the frustration of dealing with an automated phone system. This play is always firing on all cylinders so the laughs come fast and furious. Such a delight!

Are we responsible for protecting an individual or the group? Should a child be traumatized for the sake of a drill? What are the parameters of friendship in a crisis? These difficult questions are raised with great skill and a focus on the human dimension in Closing Doors. The difficult moral ambiguity facing those who face these questions is explored to shattering effect. This is an important piece and an effective piece of theatre.

An elegant encapsulation of the enduring power and pull of grief, while also a celebration of compassionate and present love. The final draft of the letter never sent is a powerful metaphor for potential healing. This play is subtly moving and affecting.