Recommended by Asher Wyndham

Trust, discretion, shame and the transaction of romantic/erotic relationship is examined brilliantly by this playwright. With brutal honesty it showcases dishonesty, and in doing so raises important questions... If we're open about what we want and what we want from other people, if we're honest about our needs and desires, without shame, is that the brilliant way to live a satisfying life? It's so easy to judge Abby, but think about it, there's a sugar baby in each of us.

I had the pleasure of seeing this produced by Mixed Blood in 2016. Never seen this type of character on a stage before, a teenager on the autism spectrum. Can you think of a play that has such a character? If you can't, then this should be the play you read. Its structure, with use of illustrations, journal writings and the episodic journey, allows for us to sympathize with her. Sometimes I saw the world through her eyes. The play also makes you think about how you're perceived and how you perceive the world differently than other people.

Super short, but it's memorable because of its idea and its dialog based on texting. Read it and you'll know what I mean. Wow. Charming little play. (It's so smart in its execution that I wouldn't be surprised if it inspires other playwrights in longer works.)

Szekeresh's dialog is snappy, but it's also deep, insightful, painful, funny. Ana's super wasted, she doesn't need another drink for brunch, but what about dinner? I'd love to see her again! I'll definitely check out Szekeresk's other plays..

HAHAHAHA! Definitely a winner for actors and the audience. A physical, lyrical zany comedy that gets better page after page. What makes the janitor such a winning character makes this play original, even if it borrows heavily from Shakespeare plays. Try to stop yourself from laughing after the reading. Directors, actors PRODUCE THIS PLAY or I will came after you with a toilet plunger!

The world, the atmosphere, the smells, the emotions, the distance between bodies and the coming together of bodies, the humor, the sorrow... A play that will remain with you for a long time.

Fenbert has wonderfully created two distinct personalities --warring young twins -- in only a few pages. You could argue they are exaggerations of siblings; however, the tension in the bedroom, the wrestling, the insulting is totally believable. You probably can relate; you acted like Polly or Wilfred when you were young or act like one of them now as an adult with your sibling. This play would be a great exercise for directing students and young actors, and also a smart choice for a comedy festival.

A female Christmas elf...I think that's a first. Another memorable buffoon who wants more out of life. She may remind you of yourself. I would love to see Gingerbell again.

You've probably read/seen a play about strangers coming together, but this play's concept and its execution makes it memorable, never cliche. The dialog, at times stalled by silence, is painful, heartfelt. Yes, this play takes place in a specific time and place, but it's for all time, for anyone anywhere because it speaks to us; it's universal with what it says about tragedy, misery, loneliness and suffering. Contains a powerful monologue for an actor.

Haas wonderfully explores identity and anxiety in this unusual short play. Most short plays, actually most plays that are produced (I think) are naturalistic; so it was a pleasure to read something outside-the-box. I liked how the psychological/emotional state - what's in Alice's head - is externalized on the page/stage -- that's super rare. If you liked Erin Courtney's DEMON BABY, you might like this play.