Recommended by Tom Erb

Samantha O creates a hilarious and relatable story about friendship, growing up, and the chaos of childbirth. With witty dialogue and well-crafted characters, O takes us on a wild ride as Anya tries to throw the perfect baby shower for her friend Emelyn. When a power outage and unexpected labor throw everything into disarray, the characters' true colors shine through. O skillfully develops each character's unique personality and struggles, making them feel like real people we might know. "This is Fine; Or, How Chekhov's Baby Saved the Party" is fast paced, with funny conversations that keep the story moving.

"The Toothpaste Millionaire" is a fun, easy-to-follow play that shows the writer's talent for making interesting characters and snappy dialogue. David Hansen takes a smart, curious boy named Rufus and his friend Kate on an exciting business adventure. As they figure out how to make and sell toothpaste, the kids learn important lessons about math, business, and growing up. With lots of jokes and a fast-moving story, Hansen creates an entertaining and educational play. The characters feel real and talk like regular kids, making it easy for the audience to root for their success.

"Star Witness" is a funny, quick courtroom comedy that shows the writer's talent for making interesting characters and smart dialogue. Lawing uses humor and craziness to highlight the struggle between culture and money. In just one scene, the clever story and characters prove Lee Richard Lawing's skill with short plays, keeping the audience entertained and laughing.

Christopher Plumridge demonstrates his mastery of crafting emotionally resonant characters and dialogue in "A Ruby in a Sky of Diamonds." Through the exchange between April and Summer, Plumridge develops a deep, real connection between mother and daughter that transcends the boundaries of life and death. The playwright's ability to bring the conversation to a perfect balance of humor, vulnerability, and love and his keen understanding of human relationships. The dialogue flows naturally, revealing the character's deep feelings and desires while propelling the story forward.

Dan Taube's keen understanding of human nature and talent for character development are on full display in "The Golden Rule." In this one-act play, Taube masterfully peels back the layers of Sara and Helen's complex personalities, revealing their deepest insecurities, prejudices, and motivations. Taube's ability to create fully realized, relatable characters in such a short time is a testament to his skill as a playwright. The characters' transformations and the shifts in their power dynamic feel authentic and earned, thanks to Taube's skillful character development.

Dan Taube's skillful writing shines in "Miss Shakespeare," a witty and engaging play exploring the possibility of the Bard being a woman in disguise. Taube's clever dialogue and playful nods to literary history showcase his talent for crafting a compelling narrative that captivates the audience.

Jacquelyn Priskorn's "Barn Wood and Blue Roses" showcases her storytelling prowess, weaving reality and fantasy through sharp dialogue and a captivating concept. Priskorn deftly tackles tough subjects with sensitivity and humor, bringing characters to life with witty exchanges. The inventive use of painted barn wood signs adds a unique charm to the imaginative "Land of Nebulous." Priskorn's talent shines in this heartwarming play that celebrates friendship, imagination, and the magic of a well-crafted story.

Get ready for a wild ride with "House Arrest," a darkly comedic murder mystery that's equally absurd and entertaining. When siblings turn up dead, a pair of bumbling cops, a clueless family, and a monster in the closet all collide in a chaotic quest for answers. With a fast-paced plot, quirky characters, and a healthy dose of ridiculousness, this play keeps you guessing (and laughing) until the end. While the script could use some tidying up, "House Arrest" is a fun, offbeat romp perfect for those who like their murder mysteries with a side dose of silliness.

Paul Smith's delightful one-act play that subverts expectations and delivers a satisfying dose of comeuppance. "A Moment" is a concise yet impactful piece of theatre that resonates with its timeless themes and clever execution, reminding us that wisdom often comes with age and that appearances can be deceiving.

Orson Welles's final moments come alive in this witty, poignant play. Welles, a shell of his former self, struggles through a champagne commercial, reflecting on his life, career, and the passage of time. With each sip and retake, he transforms into Falstaff, Shakespeare's embodiment of a bygone era. Touching and humorous, "The Last Rites of Orson Welles" is a fitting tribute to a legend confronting his own mortality.