Recommended by John Mabey

There's been such an emotion toll over the past year especially. And in ENOUGH, Greg Vovos explores the impact of that toll on two friends doing their best to cope and to connect. At times comedic and then dramatic, the play demonstrates how we're called upon to navigate a myriad of emotions often simultaneously, and the importance of reaching out to those who are suffering under the strain.

The language of this play is wonderfully heightened for a story that is epic in scope but also incredibly relatable. In THE MOTHER OF GOD VISITS HELL, Daniel Guyton excavates so much humanity behind the iconic religious characters we know so well. And in this play, he provides us with much more than the stories we've already heard as each character wrestles with their own internal angels and demons. The addition of song elevates this play even higher for a production that would be amazing to watch unfold on stage.

The poetry of SEAL ISLAND will keep you engaged from start to finish and the beautifully structured story will stay with you long afterward. John Patrick Bray has written such a moving and magical piece that would be a delight to watch on stage or online. It is romantic and haunting and playful all at the same time, taking the audience on a unique journey through myth and wonder.

What's the best way to fall in love and not explode like a supernova? D. Lee Miller has written such a poignant and grounded fantasy in TYCO'S SUPERNOVA REMNANT. Incorporating astronomy and nature with imagined conversation makes the actual encounter incredibly vivid and exciting. Also her exploration of science and prediction is a fascinating backdrop for the navigation of a relationship on the cusp of change.

There are so many laughs even in moments of panic, and Ken Levine unearths them all in this hilarious comedy. Each character is well-defined and relatable, with every relationship revealing itself and unraveling in wonderful ways as their stories intertwine. Such a great exploration, too, of what we value the most in life and what's expendable when we're propelled into action.

Such a poignant and impactful comedy! TWENTY BELOW by Claudia Haas shows us the strong bonds between family members and the journeys we'll take with them to find closure. The dynamic setting also acts as a character with sound effects of the wind serving as another voice. A well-written and heartfelt short play with the perfect touch of comedy.

Even when you're young, the concepts of morality and responsibility weigh heavily, especially when friendship is involved. In MUDDY SNEAKERS, Emily McClain shares such an intimate and thrilling navigation of this relationship between two high school seniors, both strong in different but compelling ways. And as they negotiate the terms of their relationship, the setting of the Suwanee Creek Greenway walking trail provides the perfect backdrop for their struggle. Well done!

There is so much happening behind the scenes in any encounter, and Vivian Lermond has a wonderful way of bringing that subtext to the surface. With coincidental connections and overtures of emotion, the characters in SUGAR PIE are both carving out their next stage of life with heartache and hope, trying to hold on to what's important. And the audience is left with a slice-of-life that they'll want to hold as well.

In A WALKABLE FEAST, Lucy Wang shows that it's the unexpected journeys we remember the most. A teacher and student both reveal aspects of their lives, each inspiring the growth of the other. And the gardens through which they walk serve as metaphors for all their talents and gifts that need time to root.

It's hard living with a roommate, and even harder when a mouse makes three. In MOUSE, Chelsea Frandsen has written a delightful comedy that brings laughs as well as tension and all the fun in-between. And just when it ends, you'll be imagining all the adventures that come next, too.