Recommended by Enid Cokinos

“Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” was one of my favorite movies! Steven Hayet has put an amusing spin on what happened 15 years after Mr. Wonka took Charlie under his wing. A pretty sweet gig for Chuck (who has taken on Willy’s mannerisms and flipping words around), not so great for Bo, who is still blue. I love Bo’s line, “Who’s going to have a crush on a blueberry?” The play leaves the audience wondering (and hoping?) that Chuck can work some magic and return Bo to her former self. A fun short play!

Two college students in love. Two sets of parents who object. An affair. A “cougar.” What could go wrong? Maripat has written a one-act comedy full of secrets and twists. The tension builds throughout the play—becoming rather thorny when all of the characters come together in a cramped dorm room—and concludes with a satisfying ending. My husband and I were in the audience for the production at DivaFest 2019 in Indianapolis and thoroughly enjoyed this zany romp!

Poor Reverend Gastrell. He just wants Shakespeare’s bones, but the good people of Stratford-upon-Avon are not having it. Marcia has written an entertaining historic play with a fun, satisfying twist. History buffs, Shakespeare fans, and short play enthusiasts will enjoy “Owning Shakespeare”.

There is much to love about Susan Middaugh's play, "Standby". Great humor, snappy dialogue, and a creative premise. All of the characters are wonderful, and I especially liked customer service rep, Virge–very funny! This ten-minute play is sure to be a hit!

“Suspended Animation” is a witty modern-day take on Sleeping Beauty (any deconstructed fairy tale and I’m in!). The dreaded job interview (who can’t relate to this?!), the 100-year gap in her resume, turning office supplies into an outfit with her wand...wonderful! And an all-too-real twist at the end that Prince Charming isn’t so charming after all. A fun, imaginative monologue, to be sure!

A romantic comedy at its finest. Mark has written a lovely play that addresses a real-life dating concern: What if I’m a bad kisser?! What better way to resolve the problem than to test things out with your closest friend! References to spin the bottle, going for second base, a top-note of peppermint…. hilarious! I love this play!

I was honored to be in the audience for the production of “aMused” at DivaFest 2019 in Indianapolis (the actors were phenomenal!). Megan Jacobs is a gifted writer and her characters pulled me in from the very beginning. Sebastian, with his snark and wit, made the perfect muse. A thoroughly enjoyable show for the whole family.

Becky Schlomann has created a funny, touching play with “Dolly” that provides a perfect roller coaster of emotions for the audience. This small female cast (plus one very special prop!) is delightful and packs a punch. It is sure to be a hit at any short play festival!

A wonderfully poetic piece. I would love to see this performed with the actors wearing colorful, flowing scarves and swishing and swaying around the stage! Beautiful!