Recommended by Debra A. Cole

The taking of a human life is one of the greatest evils on Earth. RYAN KAMINSKI skillfully approaches all sides of the trauma for families in THE SENTENCE. KAMINSKI's thoughtful short play asks audiences to reflect on their own beliefs around death - looking straight through the glass to the results of the violent act of taking a life.

Delightful! I adore a fractured fairy tale, and JULIE BRANDON has given us one whose time has certainly come. Women in traditional fairytales get such a bad rap... most not deserved... some... maybe earned for good reasons.

Tragic, familiar, and beautiful, ANJ MARI RIFFEL has found the words that so many mothers search for as we age in this touching 3-minute monologue. Seasoned actresses will get it. Audiences will get it. RIFFEL's gentle touch, with a subject that few of us are gentle to ourselves when discussing, is masterful. Thank you.

Beautiful hearts see each other, and SIGHT UNSEEN is proof of that. JULIE BRANDON has written a monologue that the majority of the world can relate to - the feeling of not quite measuring up in the eyes of others, while knowing inside you have so much more than they see. This tender monologue is just... well... beautiful.

Holy cow, this one hit me hard. I was emotional from the very first painful moment, through the vicious violence and vile words, and until the very last show of grace and fortitude. JARRED CORONA captures a moment in our country that is shameful, and not for the reasons expressed by the announcer and certain politians in this brilliant and powerful short play. This should be required viewing for the sake of all humanity.

BRIAN CERN has written a fabulous one person short play channeling the powerful voices of many - many who have lived, many who have made mistakes, and many still here to tell the tale. SOMEBODY ELSE is full of dark humor and somber moments, but there runs a layer of hope throughout the entire piece that will leave audiences satisfied. Strong work.

ANJ MARIE RIFFEL has written the ultimate tit for tat short play. Can strangers find a common thread that connects their humanity... and humor? This would be a blast for two seasoned actors.

THOUGHTFUL WITH A FABULOUS FINAL LINE KICK! Brent Alles reminds audiences that art is subjective, and beauty can be found anywhere... in anyone. Short play festivals will adore this one.

ABSOLUTE BEAUTY! SAMARA SISKIND offers skillful nods to romance of past, present, and future in this charming and tender modern short play. THEY WALK IN BEAUTY is a new classic for two-handers.

You gotta give it to Billy, he doesn't give up. I love MOREY NORKIN's approach to this unique title prompt. Creative brains like Norkin's come up with the most creative work... and origami creatures.