Recommended by Chris Gacinski

This play definitely showcased Deray’s versatility, being able to compose cohesive characters in a suspenseful and fun horror play. A wonderful addition to any short play festival!

Heartfelt, comedic, and well-developed characters makes Williams’s piece unlike anything I’ve read before. The connection between these characters is heartfelt, and is perfect for any company who wants to put on something unique and riveting!

Deray flawlessly displays how the grieving process can leave ever-lasting scars on those who've impacted them. Comedic at times, yet still remains sentimental and touching. A great script for college students, along with professional actors! Great work, Eytan!

Phillip Middleton Williams compellingly places these characters within familiar scenarios we've all been through. The sheer amount of realism he employs through the piece, paired with strong characters one can relate to, makes "Cooler Near the Lake" a fantastic read. I do hope I can see this on a stage one day. Well done, Mr. Williams!

The amount of progress this piece has seen since my last encounter with it is nothing short of incredible. Deray pours his heart and soul into these characters, investing heavily into subject matter that should be addressed.

Got to witness a reading of this piece at my school. Dialogue is poetic at times, and flows very nicely to cohesively tell this great story.