Recommended by Chris Gacinski

Zaffarano’s “Hotter Than Thoreau” takes an ordinary hookup and turns it into something extraordinary. A sweet and sensational romantic comedy that divulges into contemporary hook-up culture, along with providing plenty of laughs. An inquisitive piece that’s perfect for a short play festival!

Malakhow’s “Confirmation Bias” is a riveting and exponentially rich play that’s condensed into ten minutes. Regarding the psychological acceptance of homosexuality, this period piece has a lot to unravel, and showcases that loving someone of the same sex does not make one mentally ill; it doesn’t matter who you love, all that matters is that you love them and that you’re happy.

Williams has curated a negative experience into “Good Vibrations,” which is something we all could use. If you’re happy with your partner and with your choices, it shouldn’t matter what others think. This, among other reassuring and positive themes are dispersed in this script. A quick and important read.

What a ride. J. Julian Christopher creates a brave, poignant and introspective story involving a gay conversion camp in Australia. “Bundle of Sticks” creates a sweeping indictment of these archaic ideals that shouldn’t exist to begin with. On top of being raw and powerful, this play will win you over with its wit, and with a hopeful ending. A journey into darkness, than back into the light.

Based on true events regarding modernist pioneer Franz Kafka, Haas immerses the audience in a tender and loving story that tugs on the strings of the heart. We witness the growth and development of these characters which allows us to examine the relationships Haas has created in “Letters from Lisette,” along with examining our own relationships outside this script. A must read for those who love Kafka and want to delve into the strong oeuvre Haas has accumulated.

Herrera’s “Poolside Glow” is a Bildungsroman piece that pairs swimming with Serena’s quest for love. This piece poses questions regarding self-worth, endurance, and the comparison swimming and love under a critical lens. A unique play composed with a unique voice. A great piece for university productions.

Gonzalez’s “Escobar’s Hippo” is a strong absurdist adaptation of pioneer playwright Eugene Ionesco and his play “Rhinoceros.” The beauty of this script is knowledge of Ionesco and his work isn’t a prerequisite to enjoy “Escobar’s Hippo.” This piece is didactic in a way, as it teaches the audience about humanity, society and the corrosiveness of mob mentality and its influence over our decision making. With this being a work in progress, I cannot wait to see where Gonzalez takes this piece next. One to keep your eye on.

Within one minute, Scott Sickles shows life as a sex worker during a pandemic, accompanied by a few laughs and the theme of desiring normalcy during these unfamiliar times. We all want to get back to work. All of us. “Vanilla” showcases that.

Philip Middleton Williams explores every facet of this father-son relationship, and showcases the things we wish to say/do for our family. The theme of loss and the bitterness that comes with it is alleviated by the wealth of emotion Williams has displayed within their relationship. A thoughtful and poignant exchange of words and emotion.

As my first foray into Lockhart’s work, I was genuinely pleased with “Shore House.” This piece is made up of ten separate short plays, all occurring in the same setting. These stories Lockhart tells blend beauty, melancholy, and comedy to provide an immersive and engaging evening of theatre. This piece is perfect for universities with small budgets, and has amazing roles for college students!