Recommended by John Mabey

This is a story that really gave me chills and left me shaken. In SNIPER by Joe Swenson we meet a trio of soldiers, more than one with a secret, and speaks to so many issues including sexuality, identity, military culture, and trust. The playwright's background as a Marine Veteran adds special significance to the dialogue and story as well. Although fictional characters, the implications of these events are huge and bravo to the playwright for writing about hidden corners of life that are rarely seen.

There is a wonderful blend of sci-fi and poetry in MIXED SIGNALS by Aly Kantor. A car ride elevates into sexuality, identity, and even outer space while expertly remaining grounded in genuine emotion. These are characters and a story that will stay with me and a delight for actors, director, and sound engineer to explore on stage.

Selling jewelry can be a complex transaction, but in HOCKING MURRAY, George Sapio delivers a bombshell. With grieving and loss there's usually room for dark humor, and this play navigates the perfect balance between both while also asking even bigger questions about morality. And we're left to answer the biggest question of how to let go of those we've lost as we decide what (or whom) to wear.

PLAYING WITH FIRED takes you on a wonderful emotional journey in the most unlikely of places. Steven Hayet's background in business also adds such rich layers of truth and authenticity to the characters as they navigate both career and self. Such a unique holiday play that deserves to be seen again and again.

Perfect for the holiday season, NORTH POLE NOIR is an amazing tale with beloved characters as you’ve never seen them before. The noir genre is a great backdrop for this highly comedic and extremely clever story from Patrick Gabridge, and I’m eagerly waiting for the next case involving Harvey the Elf.

In ICE IS NICE, Vivian Lermond gives new meaning to 'making the catch of your life.' A wonderfully romantic scene with the perfect bait and characters to warm you through the cold nights.

What a funny twist on the holiday season! In this dark comedy, James McLindon shows us another side to Santa's workshop and a truly unique elf with existential despair. JOYEUX NOEL will have you laughing, pondering, and appreciating the French in delightful and devastating ways.

Getting ready for Xmas has never been so fun and intense as with Coach Holly in XTREME XMAS BOOT CAMP. Peter Dakutis will put you through a laughter workout with a fast-talking, acerbic, anti-jolly coach unlike any you've met. I look forward to the future adventures of this coach as well!

The Bear monologue series by Christopher Plumridge is one I'd happily binge! A mix of different genres come together for everyone's favorite demonic teddy bear, with some puns and self-effacing humor adding to the fun. Christopher continues to deftly world-build and gives deliciously demonic hints of what's to come.

In A DINNER BELL RINGS, Marj O'Neill-Butler takes us on an actual journey as a couple discovers and rediscovers themselves and their family throughout time. The structure here is unique and special as there's a seamless flow through the years. And contained within is a beautiful metaphor within about wedding china and what we truly value in our lives.