Recommended by Bruce Karp

Some things cannot be explained, and Rose's connection to a soldier previously injured in a war and summoned by a psychic, somehow is able to give her comfort and some freedom from the enduring pain she's felt from various surgeries. It's an interesting take on the power of connection across time, well written as always by this talented writer.

This beautifully written tribute speaks to me, as my own father found himself with a similar issue in his final years...sharp mind, failing body. Jack's reminiscences are funny, sad, hopeful and most of all, believable. The rhymes coupled with various cities is heartbreaking. In just a few minutes, we learn why Jack means so much to the author.

A delightful and richly detailed story that precedes the story of Peter Pan that many of us know, likely from our childhood (thank you, Mary Martin), "Tinkerbell" is full of mischievous gremlins, a Bridgerton-like Queen, fairies, and lessons of friendship and love. It's perfect as a school play, but one that adults can enjoy, while remembering what comes later when Peter and Tinkerbell do end up in Never Land. Kudos to Karen Fix Curry for an inspiring creative experience.

A wild comic tale of desperation on a desert island, "Stranded" finds George and David sparring over the lack of solutions to their crisis situation. A strange figure emerges who may or may not provide the answer to their problem. To say anything more would ruin the surprise ending. Taube's writing is crisp, funny and moves the play along nicely. Well done.

The play starts out quietly with two teens, Polly and Bobby, preparing to work on a school project together at Bobby's house. Bobby is reluctant to have guests because his father is usually drunk. Polly admits her mother is the same way. Bobby's Dad appears, drunk, and Bobby is finally able to stand up to his Dad, who realizes he's failed his son. But will he change his ways? O'Neill-Butler's writing is relatable and the situation heartfelt.

For anyone who has struggled with weight issues, this play will resonate. Rose hilariously creates a world of talking foods, tempting poor Casey at every turn. You may be afraid to open your refrigerator or pantry after reading the play. Rose is an expert at bringing inanimate objects to life, and this is another wonderful example and another feather in her cap.

A moving play (quite literally), Erstwhile is about moving out, moving on, and deciding what's more important...keeping all your stuff, or keeping a marriage going. A helpful moving company employee turns out to be a little too helpful. This is a funny play with a surprising twist. Well done!

It's been a pleasure seeing this sweet and funny play evolve. Ms. Rose has created "New York" characters with a clear vision, and the result is a clever and heartfelt look at the trials and tribulations of trying to become parents, while navigating a nosy neighbor (who likes to steal things left in front of apartment doors, like the NY Times and knishes). You'll enjoy the comic episodes and root for Amy and Jeff to have a baby, and to find a larger apartment. This play will be a hit!

Once again, Arianna Rose has used her considerable skills to make inanimate objects come alive, in hilarious and poignant ways. The physicality is impressive, as is the wonderful creation of strong personalities for each chair. I also enjoyed the way each chair was able to reminisce about their own history. This is a play that is fun, exceedingly clever and should see many productions.

For any "nerd," the opportunity to meet a hero (actor, athlete, political figure), can be overwhelming. When the hero (actress) is someone who doesn't quite think of themselves that way, comedy ensues. Alles' play cleverly captures the personalities of both nerd and fallen hero in this clever two-hander. This play should do well in a short play festival.