Recommended by Dave Osmundsen

An epic, beautiful, and big-hearted play about a tragic period in US history. Through the story of one ordinary woman named Joan, Femia weaves a narrative that emphasizes the necessity of empathy for each other, regardless of our differences. The subject matter could easily become melodramatic, but Femia smartly portrays it as a snapshot of a specific time, place, and mentality. Her characters are strong and vivid not because they have agendas, but because they are real people struggling to get through confusing and difficult circumstances. A strong entry into the AIDS Drama genre. Bravo!

This fascinating, complex, and multilayered play takes us through the tumultuous marriage of a man and a woman during a particularly devastating presidency. The central couple, Rob and Missy, spend the whole play trying to sustain their marriage, their children, and each other through troublesome times. The play is wildly theatrical and very funny, with dialogue that is both sincere and sardonic. It also asks tough questions about marriage, politics, gender identity, and how we relate to each other from different sides of the political spectrum. A rich and enjoyable play!

A deceptively simple exploration of several complex, multi-faceted, and difficult topics handled with grace and compassion. Genesis and Rashad are two well-developed, flawed, yet likable protagonists who are both trying to be the change they want to see in the world, and both of their perspectives are well-articulated and valid. Thought-provoking and timely, "The Light" challenges us to LISTEN to each other, and to be better towards one another.

A small but mighty short play. The playwright intrigues you with a young autistic girl's passion for elephants, and her incandescent hope that her mother will one day come back for her. But when the devastating final revelation occurs, good luck keeping those tears in your eyes. The final monologue is one of the most heartbreaking pieces of writing I've ever read in a dramatic piece. Excellent!

An intelligent, articulate, and nuanced examination of free speech on a college campus. Narrated by a sly and sardonic Virgil, the play tells the story of an essay that threatens to cause controversy. With minimal set and lighting requirements, the play is perfect for theaters on a budget looking to produce a play with a larger cast.

“Jane Eyre” meets “Rosemary’s Baby.” Holy crap, this is a scary play! What starts as a conventional Victorian melodrama about a marriage-of-convenience between a British woman and an Irishman gradually becomes a harrowing psychological thriller. With dialogue that beautifully suits the period and downright frightening imagery throughout, the playwright has managed to craft a compelling play with some of the most terrifying moments I’ve ever read in a play.

I thoroughly enjoyed this play! Sharp dialogue, a slow-burn narrative that pays off and then some, and a VERY well-executed twist. A scintillating exploration of how business corrupts people, and the fine line between commerce and conscience. Strong actors can really sink their teeth into these characters and make them snap, crackle, pop, and sparkle. Well done piece!

A fast-paced, funny, and intelligent contribution to the “on the road” sub-genre, this time involving two suburban teenage girls who decide to skip out on their small town and hit the road. Great insight into what it means to be a teenage girl today, the challenges of finding your place in a world that’s growing more and more chaotic, and letting go in a world that is increasingly controlled by technology. Fun dialogue and fantastic monologues for young actresses to perform. I really enjoyed this play!

A compact and compelling story about class, perception, and how we justify actions that may seem suspect to others.

A fascinating play about a thought-provoking topic that will surely inspire audience debate. Salsbury lends a sympathetic ear to all of her characters, refusing to take sides or provide easy answers. The first few lines draw you right into the play, and you can’t help but keep watching to find out how it all ends. A necessary play for today’s volatile racial and political climate.