Recommended by Tom Erb

Of all the conflicts that could be written, grief and love are the first two and the hardest. Ian Donley has crafted them beautifully in “is my sun shining?”a touching play that looks into their complexities. Alec’s journey through loss is depicted with raw emotion and dark humor, creating a deep human experience, with sharp dialogue and vibrant characters making their interactions feel real and moving. Donley balances the heaviness of its themes with lighter moments, offering an overall presentation that is both emotional qand inspiring.

The pursuit of the American dream can be a rough road as Jason Grant portrays in "Mourne Mountain". Set in contemporary Connecticut, it features rich characters like Mary Duffy, whose Irish roots and business acumen add depth to the story. The Wick's struggle to maintain appearances amidst personal and societal pressures with both gravity and warmth. The dialogue is crisp making this play an engaging and thought-provoking theatrical experience. A must-read.

This is a interesting short play that transports us to a 1994 high school setting. It’s a light-hearted piece that cleverly uses a simple classroom break-in to explore deeper themes of youth, morality, and the pressures of academia. The dialogue is sharp and witty, reflecting the voices of its young characters, Jen and Star. Bray’s work shines in its minimalist staging, allowing the strong character dynamics and the tension of the situation to take center stage. A very engaging read!

WOW, Mike what a play! It had me at Hello! “Southlake” is a passionate play that brings together the past and present of Randall Scott’s life. Set against the backdrop of a changing Southlake, Texas. Its two contrasting spaces of a young Vietnam War veteran’s return with his later years as a grandfather..truly brilliant! The heartfelt dialogue, rich characters, and the interplay between eras offer a touching story on family, memory, and resilience. Its set design and dual casting choices add depth to this story of love and redemption. It left me wanting more.

What a charming play that offers a whimsical yet profound look at life from an ant’s perspective. The dialogue is witty and fun with endearing characters, and the theme that is heartwarming. Anj Marie Riffel penned a thought-provoking piece that will be enjoyed by all ages. "An Ant Named Sue” is a small play with a big heart and an even bigger message.

Paul Donnelly's intimate portrait of love and loss during the early days of the AIDS crisis with dialogue fitting for a tough topic and well-crafted characters, He explores the complexities of relationships, grief, and the search for comfort in the face of tragedy. "Memorial Day" is a wonderfully written play. Enjoyed the read.

This play feels like a "Twilight Zone" episode, which I totally relate to. Putting into words and describing the space between life and death could be daunting, but not for Rich Helms. Through the character of Adam, he explores the stages of grief with grace and gravity, complete with off-stage voices to add a layer of depth, making the off-stage characters very real. With a light and serious tone, “On The Edge.” is an engaging and reflective theatrical experience—a truly unique one!

I have to say this has to be produced somewhere! “Jacquie Floyd Sent Me” was a thrill to read with its delightful suspense. Feeny-Williams spins a tale that captures the tension of a couple in witness protection, and the precise dialogue is real and urgent. I love the characters, the minimalist approach, and the shifts from light-hearted to menacing. Wow, what a fun read!

Who doesn't like a good haunting love story. Ken Love's "Black River," tells a haunting tale of love, sacrifice, and redemption. With lyrical dialogue and well developed characters that explore the impact of racism and violence on a small town. Love's storytelling moves fluidly through time, untangling the mystery of a generations-old curse. Rae Jean and Daniel's journey toward healing and connection forms the heart of this uplifting play that is a moving and memorable drama. Great play to read and I sure it would be the same to experience.

This is a powerful play that pulls at the heart strings of our love for baseball. “The Cons” by Alaina Tennant is a gripping drama based on the true story of a prison baseball team. The epic themes of redemption, justice, and the complex boundaries between heroism and villainy. With well developed characters and authentic dialogue, The minimalist staging and fast pace keeps the focus on the inmates personal journeys. Overall, “The Cons” offers a passionate and hopeful play. An outstanding piece of theatre.