Recommended by Steven G. Martin

  • Photograph 51
    28 Dec. 2017
    Photograph 51 is a standout not only because of its content -- sharing the story of Rosalind Franklin's work to unravel the mysteries of DNA -- but also because of its style and structure. Through the use of chorus, direct address/soliloquy/internal monologue, overlapping action, and even freezing time, Ziegler shows us a life of opportunities -- some seized, some missed -- and the joys and regrets stemming from them. The audience can see the science at work, yes, but more importantly they also see and understand the scientists.
  • View From the Reef
    3 Aug. 2017
    Audiences will root for invertebrates in this funny, theatrical and surprisingly touching gem of a short play.

    What do we do after we realize the existence of powerful, mysterious forces that can destroy us on a whim? Weaver suggests we question our value, take solace in the beauty of what's known, and continue to live our lives.
  • VALERIE: A COSPLAY MONOLOGUE
    29 Apr. 2017
    Lying just underneath the pop culture references and the literally ass-kicking actions of our heroine Valerie - and there are many examples of both! - is the harshness, stupidity and cruelty that she has faced. As a true heroine, however, she doesn't back down and instead is ready to fight for herself and, as she offers guidance to an unseen character, others. "Valerie: A Cosplay Monologue" offers a rich character for actors, one filled with an adventurous spirit, rage, fierce self-esteem, joy, and wisdom learned at far too young an age.
  • A Poison Squad of Whispering Women
    29 Apr. 2017
    "A Poison Squad of Whispering Women" weaves together revenge, hospitality, small-mindedness, religion, civic pride, women's rights, profiteering from lies, and agency. The five women's roles are multi-dimensional as these characters are both heroic and terribly flawed.
  • To Tread Among Serpents
    26 Jul. 2015
    "To Tread Among Serpents" is a highly theatrical play that showcases fierce female characters who are battling for notoriety, survival and piece of the action. It also tells a tale that seems a straightforward murder mystery/court case but subtly shifts into the realm of media distortion and the justice system.
  • The Show Must NOT Go On!
    26 Jul. 2015
    I saw "The Show Must NOT Go On!" during the Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette 10-minute play festival. The audience was literally howling with laughter at this farce. Swordplay, a battle of the sexes, Shakespearean mashups and more made this an audience favorite.

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