Recommended by Bruce Karp

Premise - clever. Successful - yes.

Wonderful detail and story telling in this short Japanese fable. The story moves along beautifully with strong imagery. The temptation for Taro to open the box is too much, not unexpected, but the result is surprising nonetheless. I can imagine this as a full-length play, so Norkin's ability to bring so much life to the story in a short form is impressive.

Donnelly has written a powerful and heartbreaking story, with verbal twists and turns that show great craftsmanship. I couldn't take my eyes off the page as the story was unfolding. The emotional impact was strong. Actors will have a field day performing this play, which would be a great addition to any play festival.

The demands of social media can sometimes be challenging, yet others embrace it, and others go even further and devote their lives to it. In this hilarious, spot-on commentary on social media, Brian Cern captures both the ridiculousness and potential benefits of going all in on social media. The two roommates, as different from each other as they can be, have different attitudes that will be amplified throughout the play, to a satisfying ending. Damage control may be necessary. A fun romp for the actors who get to play in this playground.

Dana Hall has written a powerful story, familiar to all of us via multiple news reports. She's presented a shattering condemnation of government ennui and incompetence in the handling of Flint, Michigan's water supply, and has dramatized its effects on the local population. Inventively staged, this play cries out to be seen and heard.

There is a Becket-ish feeling to Ms. DeFrates' writing which is quite evident in this play. She sets up the premise in an intriguing way, defying the audience to determine what is coming next. The ending is a surprise and the women, seemingly innocent and accepting of their place in a very small world, discover what they believe is the answer to their prayer. What the audience sees is terrifying, rather than a prophecy coming true. The detail and thought process in creating this play are impressive.

A great premise, well-executed, funny, then ultimately heart-tugging. Imagine being able to end a drought, just by showing up? (I personally can do it by getting my car washed, but that's another story.) Southern California needs you, Norton! Seriously, though, the play provides two solid acting roles and lots of laughs and should be produced.

Going from nightmare to dream, the Mom in O'Neill-Butler's delightful play takes herself out of her stressful world, and, rather than take a long bubble bath, she imagines what it would be like to have some peace, quiet, and the chance to dance. A unicorn happens to be a handy dance partner. A clever premise with a little bit of magic. Well done!

Ms. Feeny-Williams has created a very interesting and ultimately harrowing Sweeney-Todd-like story that will surprise you and delight you for its cleverness and surprise ending. And that is all I can say without ruining the story. Well done!

A fun premise, expertly delivered. (Making inanimate objects real is hard!) I laughed throughout. I don't know how Ms. Feeny-Williams is able to write a play each day. Perhaps she drinks a lot of coffee! However, she does it, this one is a winner.