Recommended by Tom Erb

"Power Play" invites audiences to witness the raw vulnerability of artists as they grapple with identity, ambition, and the pursuit of truth. With humor, heart, and unexpected plot twists, this play leaves an indelible mark—a call to embrace our imperfections and rewrite our narratives.

I highly recommend C. Meaker's "You Must Wear a Hat" for the ability to craft compelling narratives and characters. This play bring a unique perspective to storytelling.

"Ritualistic Human Sacrifice" is a gripping tale of sacrifice, supernatural forces, and desperate choices. The cursed town's haunting backdrop adds depth to this intense drama. A must-read!

"Yours Ever" by Michele Clarke is a captivating piece that transports audiences to the late 19th century. I really enjoyed this script set against the backdrop of intense competition to bring the first Botticelli painting to America, the story weaves together love, loss, and the transformative power of art. Isabella Stewart Gardner, a spirited woman, defies social norms, while personal tragedies unfold. The except's exploration of identity and defiance resonates, making it a must-see for theater enthusiasts.

"Heartburn" is a gripping play that masterfully intertwines humor with suspense. The characters are relatable, and the plot twist is both surprising and thought-provoking. It's a poignant exploration of our deepest health fears and the comedic yet tender human interactions within the confines of a doctor's office.

Jacquelyn Priskorn's play "Cupid" is a fresh take on some pretty deep topics like love, identity, and what society thinks about it all. It's set in a zoo of all places, with Cupid himself locked up and treated like just another exhibit. The conversations between Amy, Wes, and Cupid are loaded with snark and deeper meanings, making you think twice about how we see love and treat each other. The play’s dark vibe makes you question norms and challenges our thoughts about love. It's definitely a cool, thought-provoking piece that mixes humor with serious questions.

Shaw captures the journey on the subway of three longtime friends and personal trials on their way to go
fishing. Shaw’s dialogue skillfully weaves humor with the raw edges of life’s disappointments, creating deeply relatable characters. This play is a subtle but powerful examination of emotional landscapes, camaraderie, and the resilience of bonds forged in youth.

"Ian Donley's “12:34am” is exploding with absurdity and dark humor, staged in a non-stop scenario that barely lets you catch your breath. Donley crafts a chaotic narrative where the surreal becomes the norm, blending comedic elements with a stark, modern sense of humor. It's entertaining, challenging the audience to keep pace with its relentless twists and turns.

Brenton Kniess's *The Thatcher Theater Terror* cleverly blends humor with a hint of supernatural to create a playful Halloween farce set in a movie theater. The dialogue is snappy, and the characters are quirky, adding layers to a seemingly straightforward night of work. It's a delightful read that balances laughs with suspense.

What started as a play rehearsal quickly became more personal, with real tension between the characters. I was hooked, wondering what would happen next. The play-within-a-play setup cleverly explored their drama, and the shocking conclusion left me thinking about the consequences of mixing work and personal life. "Be That as It May" shows how a short play can deliver a powerful message about dealing with conflict, and it was an engaging read.