Recommended by Emma Wood

  • Ador'd Once, Too
    30 Nov. 2020
    Ador'd Once, Too picks up on a famous line from a famous cameo role in a famous play, and renders Sir Andrew a full blooded man with a complex history. Malone's skill in fleshing out his past, on deliciously extending the rollicking Sir Toby, and also creating the mysterious Jocasta and a host of other endearing characters makes this a play we can all adore too, more than once! The action and romance bring any stage to life, and the play is both reverent of its source while being true to its own unique style.
  • Sisters
    19 Nov. 2020
    Sisters packs a lot of punch in a ten minute play, capably portraying both the love and bitter resentment that exists between two sisters with very different capabilities and prospects. The chess game and the use of projection to capture the instant messaging keeps the play physically lively and engaging, and the dynamics of the relationship presents a wonderful challenge for two young actors. By the end of the play, in spite of the raw anger between the sisters, their enduring love shone, and was very moving.
  • Something True
    18 Nov. 2020
    I thoroughly enjoyed this whimsical and original look at a young relationship. The combination of the idealism and sweetness of youth with a lack of sound judgment leads the fledgling relationship to a precipice, but I was so pleased when the sincerity of the attachment won the day. An enchanting short play that quickly endears you to the characters and leaves you charmed. I would love to see this in the hands of two sensitive young actors.
  • Gambit
    5 Nov. 2020
    Gambit is a thoroughly absorbing, at times hair raising, intellectual thriller with an explosive conclusion. It's definitely in the 'can't put down' category. Once you're in, you're in for a hell of a ride, and you're in from the very start! Two willful and powerful women who are determined to defeat the other both in a game of chess, and in life. The live chess metaphor greatly adds to the tension. The resolution offers a satisfying glimpse into their vulnerability, and a release from the beautifully drawn tension. I rate this highly and would love to see it staged!
  • Not Really (Little Star)
    1 Nov. 2020
    Not Really (Little Star) is a deeply moving, heartfelt monologue on a topic still rarely spoken: miscarriage. Due to my own life experiences the subject is close to my heart, and Malone's raw, honest and candid dealing with it was most welcome. Hearing from a male character on his complicated feelings of grief, numbness and guilt is even rarer than hearing from a female character. It's a brave, soulful piece that will captivate any audience, a gift for a male actor, and a beautiful exploration of an important subject.
  • Goddess Of The Hunt
    31 Oct. 2020
    I thoroughly enjoyed reading this sparkling play. The laughs begin when reading the cast list, and the zingers just keep coming. But layers are added cleverly, and what initially appears light becomes much darker, as the naive but very likable aging hero is ensnared by characters both ruthless and revolting, whilst also highly amusing. By the midway point I was enjoying the devilish plot twists and thriller touches every bit as much as a comedy. This witty and incisive script would be delight to see in production.
  • The Heinrich Maneuver (a ten minute play)
    24 Oct. 2020
    An absolutely hilarious, madcap comedy, with line after line revealing another mini explosion of ridiculous revelations. Was laughing out loud reading it, and can only imagine how much fun it would be in the hands of two energetic actors. This comic wizardry would brighten up any short play festival. Highly recommend!
  • Sin - One Act Play
    24 Oct. 2020
    Sin is a bold play dealing directly with issues that have been spotlit in the me-too era. The four characters give us a strong insight into exploitation and harassment. Idealism and innocence are clearly shown by the young aspiring female actor, Tori, being preyed upon by a producer only a little older but infinitely more worldly and cynical. Tori's boyfriend's dilemma is shown with humanity, torn as he is between the imperatives of 'real world' and his own career advancement against what he knows is immoral. Well drawn!
  • CHOICES
    21 Oct. 2020
    'Choices' packs a lot of punches in a short space of time. The original concept pulled me in with its unfolding revelations, and the multiple twists and resolution were very entertaining. But after reading it a couple of times I started to feel the sting of how far resentment and envy can push a person to unreasonable lengths. A worthy short play, both amusing and though provoking.
  • LIGHTS UP!
    18 Oct. 2020
    This little gem would light up any short play festival! We've all known actors like Justin, big fish in small ponds, above taking direction no matter how reasonably and patiently offered. Seeing him get what's coming in the form of a humble janitor was both laugh out loud funny and truly gratifying. Would love to see this on stage! Highly recommend Lights Up!

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