Recommended by John Mabey

In BLUETOOTH, Liz Dooley has crafted such a compelling piece of theatre. From the first lines we're transported into this world where so much is revealed through the one-sided call and not one word is wasted. The history is so clear between these fathers and the urgency of the call propels this piece forward at an exciting pace.

There are many things I enjoy about the writing of Imani Vaughn-Jones, and in 'A Single F*cking Retweet' it's especially the emotional truth and honesty of the dialogue. The characters are incredibly vivid and real, and their connection/past history very clear. The retweet itself opens the world of the play to racism, signaling support vs activism, and even the burdens placed on teachers. And the final lines provide a satisfying ending while also taking my imagination to what happens next.

It's the little things in life that bring us so much joy to complain about. And in this clever short by Steven Martin, you just might recognize a little too much of yourself, too. With just a couple minutes to doom, these characters lament over Tuesdays in high comedy while also illustrating some of the ways in which we all cope (for better or worse). A delightful addition to short play festivals!

This beautiful monologue takes you on a journey of desire and longing, but with an edge of comedy that elevates it beyond a typical genre. Paul Smith's, I WILL NEVER PLAY HAMLET, is layered with emotional honesty and authenticity, and a perfect monologue for an older actor looking to portray complex emotions as a finely crafted character.

This one-page play was a real treat! Lisa Dellagiarino Feriend reveals what actually happens when you're trying to impress people and the disappointment that ensues. Only this time, everyone's in for a surprise.

Jack Levine is masterful with adding a touch of comedy to any situation. And in 'TAP. TAP. TAP.' he's crafted a suspenseful and spooky play with an ending you won't expect. Also the ability to perform this play on Zoom provides for so much convenience as well as creativity with backgrounds and sound effects. And great roles for older performers, too!

Emily McClain has created such a rich world combining Greek mythology and comedy in this struggle to reclaim one's destiny. Especially powerful are the moments of levity in this dangerous, mythological world that provide each character with an even greater sense of humanity. Whether you're fond of Greek mythology or just enjoy a captivating story, this play offers intrigue and compelling characters who collide on a path to living authentically.

This is such a delightful and clever monologue filled with layers of meaning. Our mask-wearing world today as seen through the more innocent eyes of a dog - and yet with such keen and sharp observations. Elisabeth Giffin Speckman creates so much character in such a short piece that is both dramatic and charming.

In Dominica Plummer's SECOND HONEYMOON, we're treated to a beautifully complex play with an economy of words that makes each one sing with meaning. The relationship between Jack and Mary is filled with rich history as they reminisce about the past and Mary looks toward the future. The regional dialects bring so much realism to both characters and the final lines deliver an emotional depth that awes.

Hope is a complicated word when faced with uncertainty both economically and socially. And Emily McClain explores it so magically in MAYBE THIS TIME IS DIFFERENT. Even if you haven't lived in a small town, the struggles and connections between the characters are relatable and poignant. And the manner in which the relationships unfold between the large cast is masterfully revealed in each scene, racing toward an end that is both bittersweet and hopeful. Also the use of puppets and other production details make this play incredibly creative and exciting to produce.