Recommended by Tom Erb

“How About Them Dodgers” is a witty and suspenseful play set on a park bench in suburban Miami. The tone oscillates between casual banter and underlying intrigue. Mickey and Marie's dialogue is filled with tension as they exchange mysterious packages. The theme of illicit business and furtive exchanges keeps the audience engaged. Philip Middleton Williams skillfully balances humor and suspense, making this play an intriguing slice of life with unexpected twists.

“Collabor-Fucking-Ation!” is a fun play about friends working together in London. They talk, joke, and sometimes argue, showing us who they are. The dialogue is sharp and witty, revealing the characters’ personalities and the dynamics between them. This play promises to be a lively exploration of friendship, work, and the quirks of daily life. The fast-moving story is funny and gets serious too. It’s all about how messy it can be to make something together. The writing makes it all feel real and exciting. It’s a great look at the ups and downs of teamwork. F--king great read!

“When in Rome” is a hilarious play in the iconic Colosseum. The cast includes a mix of historical and whimsical characters. The play cleverly intertwines contemporary references with ancient Roman settings, creating a comedic spectacle that promises to entertain. Norkin’s script is a delightful blend of satire and farce, perfect for a quick theatrical escape into the past with a modern laugh.

“Out of the Woods "is a mysterious and intriguing love story set in a forest clearing that explores themes of identity, memory, and the unknown. As the characters navigate the woods, they grapple with their pasts and the mysteries surrounding them. Weibezahl captures the eerie atmosphere of the forest, leaving the audience questioning what lies beyond the trees. A compelling and thought-provoking piece that is worth the read.

“Speechless” is a passionate piece that explores its character's challenges and aspirations. Through the lens of a dance class, it analyzes the themes of communication, acceptance, and the search for normalcy. The characters are diverse and richly drawn, each grappling with obstacles—Lane’s need for movement to think, Ellie’s speech delay, Lucia’s language barrier, and Connor’s anxiety. The setting, an elementary classroom turned dance studio, serves as a metaphor for the transformative power of art. Knighton’s writing is sensitive and insightful, making “Speechless” a compelling piece that speaks volumes without saying a word.

Robert J. LeBlanc's audio play "The Eye of Bastet" is a thrilling adventure with crisp dialogue and dynamic character development. The plot, featuring the mystic Amethyst Ghost, progresses with suspenseful twists. The tone captures the essence of vintage radio dramas, while the theme of mysticism versus crime is intriguingly clear. LeBlanc's writing style is vivid and engaging, ensuring listeners are hooked from start to finish. This play is a standout choice for its innovative use of sound and narrative, making it a must-listen for audio drama enthusiasts.

“Adrift” by Rachel Feeny-Williams is a one-act play that captures the essence of a beachside setting and the complexities of relationships. The characters are young and vibrant, and each brings a unique dynamic to the narrative. The dialogue is natural and flows effortlessly, revealing the characters’ personalities and the underlying tensions. The play’s setting is a character in itself, providing a backdrop for the unfolding drama. Feeny-Williams’ writing style is engaging, making “Adrift” a compelling piece that would resonate with audiences, especially those who appreciate the nuances of friendship and the healing power of nature. It’s a refreshing

Arianna Rose’s “The Equivalent of Sensation” is a masterful play that brings to life the art world’s vibrancy through sharp dialogue and robust character development. The plot navigates through time with ease, offering a whimsical and profound tone. The theme of art as a reflection of life is clear and thought-provoking. The dialogue is fluid and evocative, making the historical journey of Etta Cone and her contemporaries accessible and deeply moving. It’s a rich, imaginative experience highly recommended for creative storytelling. Would love to see this staged.

Ryan Vaughan's "So am I" is a heartfelt exploration of faith and family. The dialogue is sharp, the characters are relatable, and the plot unfolds with a gentle yet powerful progression. The tone blends sincerity and warmth, and the theme of understanding across generations is crystal clear. Vaughan's engaging writing style makes the play a compelling read.

“Backyard Stonehenge, Reclaimed” is a comedic gem that turns a suburban spat over stolen stones into a delightful dance of dialogue. Jacquelyn Floyd-Priskorn’s pen paints Mrs. Ferria with the spunk of a sitcom star, while Jude provides the perfect pinch of practicality. A garden-variety quarrel escalates into an early morning escapade of elderly empowerment. It’s a lighthearted look at lawn law, and order that proves even the pettiest squabbles can pave the path to punchlines.