Recommended by Philip Middleton Williams

The response of the son to a question from his father is one simple stage direction. It makes the whole play work and worth it on every level.

There are any number of things -- little things, annoyances, quirks -- that can make a relationship unique, and the love story between these two very complicated but clearly in-love people makes that point so well. John Mabey has a light touch that reveals the inner truths and worries that we all have about ourselves and the person we love. In this play that lays it all out in the same way leaves fall on a forest floor -- seemingly random but artfully patterned -- we watch as these two souls find a way to be together.

The precision and insight that Nick Malakhow brings to this story of teaching in a private Quaker school, a place so determined to live up to the precepts of political correctness that it borders on absurdism, is perfect. The sincere attempts to make a Friends-based world crafted by scions of guilt-ridden liberalism are revealed in fine detail, and the two teachers, Ben and Jasmine, are caught up in the maelstrom. Everyone should hold this play in the Light.

The faerie tale of the troll under the bridge takes on a message of currency about immigration and our attitudes about it. The riddles this time become harder and more impenetrable, and the interactions between Theo and Buddy are wonderful.

You do not have to be a fan of the board game Clue to enjoy this little moment of hilarity. Steven Hayet brings his wit and drollery to full tilt and it will give the actors all the scenery-chewing moments that the game needs and the audience will enjoy.

Nick Malakhow has crafted a lyrical and deeply-rendered vision of life for two strong but delicate characters in a setting that is so alien to them that the only way to survive is with each other. They need each other, and yet...

I know all too well what the world he lands them in is like, but seen through their eyes it takes on a completely different texture. The grit he speaks of is not only what is required of Raymond and Sasha, but the constant irritation of the world that is grinding them down. This will stay with you.

The most powerful element in this short play is how DC Cathro turns a bright light on all of his characters and reveals their true dimensions without judgment. He leaves it to us to see all the facets and flaws, and through them see our own reflections. No one is spared, but no one is sacrificed, and what starts out as as juicy dish-fest between two roommates turns to an honest and passionate testimony to Shakespeare's observation: "Love looks not with the eye but with the mind, and therefore is winged Cupid painted blind."

The realities and truths about immigration to America is brought into strong and intimate focus in this non-fiction telling of how five people found their way to our shores. Adam Richter brings these people and their stories to life in a way that is both intimate and universal.

The adage "you can't pick your family" isn't really true anymore, what with extended families and step-brothers showing up. In this both hilarious and touching moment, Emily McClain brings together these two disparate brothers with one simple job ahead of them - what to do with Mom's ashes - and we get to see just how different they are... and how much they share.

This short piece will take you away, and DC Cathro's lyrical moments, counterpointed by movement and silence, come together for one sensual experience. All the senses are there. All you have to do is allow them in. A wonderful expression of simple truth.