Recommended by Bethany Dickens Assaf

Imaginative, theatrical, and very, very fun, Vansant utilizes a strong concept to describe the a search for a job (and, perhaps, oneself). While this woeful tale is particularly relevant to the millennial generation, the belief that a job should define who we are is an inter-generational paradigm that deserves more attention. A lovely and worthy addition to any short play festival.

Marvelously theatrical and witty, Cohen has tapped directly into the confusion and existential agonies of millennial feminism. References to 90s- and early 2000s-culture abound, but there are enough questions about lived experiences to reach - and amuse - any audience; particularly: what does it mean to be 'strong?' What has modernity lost in redefining concepts of adventure and womanhood? And what do we owe to the world, anyway?

Writing two gender-neutral characters is tricky, and Weibezahl does it well in this bittersweet piece. In addition to the gender of the characters, the piece provides is a lot of lovely room for a director to bring in their interpretation, while also maintaining the specifics that define a relationship. The smartly-drawn, ethereal setting further adds layers to the deep bitterness between the two characters.

Interesting and exciting: I was on the edge of my seat, pleased that I had no idea where this piece would go next. As a white woman, I appreciated that this piece directly indicted me without pulling any punches. An excellent and polished piece of theatre.

A sweet and melancholy love story that gives the audience a window into two fascinating souls. This play is anything but a simple meet-cute. Smith sets up a meaningful conversation with some interesting specifics and allows his characters room to be themselves. Amazing that the relationship between two strangers could feel so full and rich after only ten minutes!

An absolutely wonderful concept that unfurls in unexpected ways. Both characters have striking individual voices and the dialogue is tack-sharp. This is a play to excite audiences, leave them wanting more, and get them talking about the aspirational stories we tell about ourselves.

Strikingly specific and pointed, but with a deep connection to the lived experience of anyone touched by violence. Conlon is adept at dialogue; his words strike a balance between reality and lyricism, uplifting the narrative to a universal understanding of pain, silence, and betrayal. This piece would be a strong addition to any ten-minute play festival.

Bittersweet and subtle, troubling and redemptive, grounded and warm: I cannot heap enough praise on this play to measure the impact it had on me. Bray is marvellous at stepping into the world of childhood, but he is adept at guiding us there as well. During the piece, I could see the relationship between the two siblings weaving out into an almost-surely heartbreaking future. Despite the specifics of their relationship, I felt the universality of that existential uncertainty.

Absolutely bewildering in the best way. Braverman strikes a confident balance between absurdism and deep meaning, all while having loads of fun with the audience. It seems impossible that such a blissfully funny play could leave you pondering deep questions, but I walked away with a lot to wrestle with including the meaning of life. Splendid!

Winsome, bittersweet, hilarious, subversive, shocking, and, above all, pointed: Carnes' piece is delivered with poetical polish and a strong sense of clarity around her politically relevant topic. This is a short play to wrestle with, one that offers no easy answers and lets no-one off the hook, including the audience. I usually tend to see plot twists coming a mile away, but was so pleased to be continually caught off guard by this timely play.