Recommended by Jacob Horowitz

"Our Santa" is a touching piece showcasing what it means to have the holiday spirit, and what it means to spread it. Colleen and Brett's dynamic is believable yet refreshing for a young boy and his mother, and the missing third character of the Father hangs solemnly throughout the play. This makes the ending feel even more heartfelt and special. Great work!

"Hey, Kiddo" is a thriller from the start, easily drawing me into the world of the play in the first few pages. The concept of the multimedia aspect of the play with the found footage is brilliant, and would be a treat for a production team to sink their teeth, or axes, into. This would be an amazing play to stage, with its compelling characters like Jonathan and Katye, and even Michael, in a way, and its interesting use of tech.

"Fix it Quik Autoshop" is the sort of play that once you think you have it figured out, it sends you for a ride in another direction! Without giving too much away, the scenario appears at first just a simple, if not hilarious, twist on gender roles, complete with making incels do humiliating dances. Underneath though, is a story that tells us more by not being answered than if it were answered. By the end I wasn't unsatisfied, but I have a lot of questions. Great job. Would be a brilliant play to stage and see live.

"Last Laugh" is a touching comedy about family, legacy, and the power of laughter. Norkin creates vibrant characters in Jackie and Jennifer, one about to have a big break, one with their career in the past. When the twist comes, it rocks the boat and gives a clear trajectory for the rest of the play. The ending especially I found brilliant and touching. This would be a fantastic play to produce and see preformed.

"Space Laser, In Space" is a wild ride that I am so glad I got on. Blevins uses two very different Jews to discuss observance, identity, and what it means to be Jewish. Is it more perseverance like Talia sees it, or tikkun olam like David mentions? Either way, Belvins showcase some struggles of the modern Jew, some of which hit home to me, from Birthright as a free trip to what it means to be a Jew. This play needs to be produced, for no other reason then I want to see it live.

"Voyage to Nowhere" is the kind of play that plays with the space in between the lines, and what is not said, until it has to be. Mackling does a great job of showcasing Tate's situation in a guarded way, that leaves one guessing what is truly happening until all is revealed. As always, the characters feel real, human, and relatable. This would be a great play to produce, and could help spread the message about the housing crisis and homelessness.

Mackling brings to life to characters who are unique and yet both so very human. From Jenna's Christmas excitement, to Beth's reluctance to decorate so early, both women feel so real. The conflict is light and fun. This would be a great short play to produce and have seen on stage.

"Fable Group" is a fascinating case of fairy tales gone dark. With an incredibly enticing format, filled with twists and turns, Martineau handles what could have been, had things gone differently for these beloved fairy tales, with mastery. This play would be great to stage and preform live.

Hall paints a powerful picture of what it means to love unconditionally. The writing in "Snowglobe" is poetic, yet still clear. It is a mother's warning and her plea, and, above all, it is a gut punch of emotion. A great monologue for an actor to sink their teeth into.

"Promises, Promises" is a fascinating dive into the power of friendship, and the dangers of being over-dependent on others, and of keeping those feelings hidden. Mackling brings Max, Tyler, and Allison to life in such a vibrant way, but it really was the bond of Max towards Tyler that felt so real to me, full of aching and depth. The play is a vibrant piece, and would be brilliant to see preformed at any theatre!