Recommended by Abigail Henkin

Smart and surprising. Underneath the clever banter Kander challenges us to reconsider our assumptions and the sacrifices we make to keep face.

This twisting series of vignettes brilliantly confuses how we see other peoples and ourselves. Darkly humorous, it asks us to consider where our need for control is driving us and what authenticity means in a reality of imitations. Gripping, exciting, tragic, and definitely thought-provoking

This gripping psychological horror mystery challenges us to question the interplay between memory, imagination, and obsession as the three blend together. Mandy struggles to grapple with her father's mental illness and difficult legacy as she finds herself on similar paths. The inventive use of space works with the text to create these spaces of memory and horror. Full of strong twists, humor, and effective dialogue, I would absolutely love to see this play performed.

This interactive play asks us to consider the magic and power of collectivization as we feel increasingly pushed to individualization. Its cleverly invites the incorporation of the audience to call out their own complicities as the characters navigate how they can create a healthy space for coexistence in an unhealthy world. Surprises and engaging, it dares us to reconsider how we construct the spaces we make to relate to each other.

Funny, sharp, and emotional, Richard sweeps us up in Katherine's anger and regret, when the unexpected reemergence of a friend makes her struggle to reconcile the life she lived with the one she could.

Sharp and insightful, Monica and her lovers breathe like real people, with the hope and pain that comes with that. Nora cleverly realizes the obstacles, both past and present, that hinder us from the connections we're so hungry for, through the figure of a woman constantly struggling to present herself as she is now without denying who she was. An excellent commentary on reckoning with relationships as a woman

Polak's compassion for his characters is enviable. He gifts each one of them with a unique voice and celebrates their spirit without letting them avoid the repercussions of their choices. The play glides on the ease of their dialogue while forcing them to constantly choose who they are and to what they belong. It's challenging and stirring in just the right ways

Achingly real, incredibly specific, drama rooted in truth. Following the highs and lows is exhilarating, the knowledge of impending tragedy always looming but cut with moments of humor and genuine connection. It addresses modern concerns without patronizing and creates an instant connection with characters that, even if you don't love them, you immediately feel like you know. Excited to see where it continues to go