Recommended by Greg Burdick

Raw, spare, and yet packed to the rafters with tension and depth, “One Month Along” is an autopsy of a marriage, a friendship, and a career. Gonazlez has an economy of words in this piece that is remarkable. Rhythms created by the moments when his characters speak (and when they don’t,) will make for a compelling evening for audiences, and a delicious challenge for the actors.

The young ladies depicted in this story must navigate through some of the wildest, untamed, and most dangerous territory: adolescence. This wolf pack has each other to rely on during the journey, but there are also many challenges for dominance. They’re playing a game, but be assured- blood, sweat, and tears are all part of the deal here, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. DeLappe has crafted a coming of age tale that unquestionably redefines the genre. A stunning work.

A very clever musing on love, the lack of it, connection and disconnection. Cowley gives us all tremendous hope that there is indeed someone for everyone. A quirky romantic comedy with dark undertones that will unsettle and delight.

What if you don’t have enough wisdom to impart... and the future of human species is relying on you? Three weary travelers are Mars-bound in this absurd and hilarious short by Rachael Carnes. We’ve already wrecked so much beginning with our westward expansion... should we be so bold to continue going up... and out... and deeper into space than we’ve ever been? Carnes seems to suggest if we do, we’re destined to be taking giant leaps backward... to the prehistoric. And Wilma won’t be able to help us. Crazy good fun!

I think most people can remember some sort of urban myth associated with their hometown. Mine involved a mysterious recluse named “Hatchet Jack.” And millenials will probably forever remember when “Slenderman” invaded their phones. Aleks Merilo has frighteningly expanded the lore with his outstanding play “The Hanging Girl.” The story offers a terrifying local legend grounded in a plausible reality. His title character presents wild opportunities for a performer with a dance and movement background, and the play would be exciting for directors with a passion for creating suspense and dread. Highly recommended. I want to see this one!

The outlandish hijinx of Grace and Amy in “Bureaucrazy” make this script, without a doubt, the delightfully wacky and absurd love-child of “9 to 5” and “Weekend at Bernie’s.” Kate Danley’s dialogue is lightning fast. It will leave you breathless, and with sides aching from all the laughs. Staggeringly funny roles for women here, along with a relentless pace, make this play one that you need to put at the top of your list. Farce is usually brain candy, but this play admirably elevates it to macadamia nut status... well done!

Whether you’re a fan of Alcott’s iconic novel, or just casually familiar, you’ll enjoy Donna Hoke’s modern take on the March sisters. She expertly maintains the architecture of the original, but delivers it in a contemporary and theatrical way that feels fresh and innovative. These are not little women, particularly Jo and Meg: they’re rich, full characters with 21st century sensibilities and affectations. This is a strong example of how a modern adaptation of a classic can work for the stage.

"A Million Voices" illustrates the long-lasting nature of trauma... the residual effects... from gun violence. In Chelsea White's gripping monologue, punctuated by bold choral affirmations, the speaker reveals how her faith was tested, but commits to reaffirming her beliefs. The scene's resolution offers hope amid the darkness.

Jennifer O'Grady has penned a powerful monologue examining survivor's guilt, and the limitations of man when confronted with gun violence. This short play, despite its traumatic subject matter, features strong flashes of humor and humanity. An excellent addition to Code Red Playwrights' latest offering of shorts.

Lee Lawing's somber monologue depicts a woman torn between her fleeting faith, and a gnawing need to commemorate the lives lost during a shooting at her church. She is duty-bound, despite her doubt in God, as she is mindful of their souls. Her conviction that there is still goodness in the world, in the face of the trauma she witnessed first-hand, serves as a fitting tribute.