Recommended by John Mabey

The best comedies make us laugh and think at the same time. And in SPACE LASER, IN SPACE by Jillian Blevins, we meet two characters who hilariously and earnestly wrestle with themes of faith, Judaism, and antisemitism while confronting each other and themselves about their own sense of identity. The high stakes throughout juxtaposes beautifully with the absurdity of the situation itself based on antisemitic conspiracy theories and tropes, making a play that's not only wildly entertaining but also incredibly poignant.

My favorite kinds of plays involve multilayered characters driving the story in surprising ways. And in IS THIS ALL THIS IS, Dave Osmundsen absolutely delivers in crafting a poignant and intimate story about relationships and identity. Especially notable are the dynamic characters who are wholly original and authentically imperfect throughout. This play also shines in its exploration of gender identity and autism with emotional truth and beautiful complexity, revealing how no identity presents in a singular way. The characters will stay with me long after the final scene.

In RED WINE by Peter Fenton we meet a complex character with layers of both intriguing backstory and fiery subtext. The setting conjures much creative inspiration for staging and the sharp dialogue will be a delight to deliver. This is a character who truly extends beyond the page.

Love isn't always easy, but it doesn't need to be taken so seriously either. In FLOATING BUBBLES, Jack Levine takes us on a love journey of when Dick met Jane. And along the way, the absurd meets the unexpected between these two comedic characters. A delightfully charming play to make you smile as it makes you consider the magic of bubbles in your own life, too.

What a delicious monologue with a character who is vividly drawn in all her vibrant colors. AUTUMN'S FALL by Christopher Plumridge showcases the character of Autumn having an intense moment over how she's treated and more importantly over how she's perceived. The specificity here is wonderful and the many details make this a character who instantly comes to life. I'd love to see more of her in future monologues and plays.

This play really stole my heart in the best magical ways. 153 by Steven Martin is a gem that shines differently throughout, each page a new revelation and insight for both the characters and ourselves. A mix of poetic dialogue and cathartic imagery makes this play so very special and a delight to both read and watch.

Sometimes it takes an unexpected visit from an unexpected person to find a path back to yourself. And in THE MEDIATOR by Christopher Soucy, this is explored through a wonderful mix of both comedy and heart. In just a few pages we can instantly recognize this character and their loss of forward momentum. And by the end, the new hope of a brighter tomorrow through both the spoken and the unspoken.

There's so much beautiful story that changes and unfolds throughout THE FERRIS WHEEL by D. Lee Miller. And with each turn we witness a different milestone and moment in the lives of a couple who also change. A profound sense of longing and connection throughout the play grounds us in deep emotion for an ending that not only surprises but takes us back to the start.

Devastation and loss are felt by everyone differently, especially around the same painful tragedy. And in 15 SECONDS by Bruce Karp, we meet a family and a chosen family who connect through the pain. The structure of the play is also beautiful and fits so perfectly the way the story unfolds.

ON QUEUE by Morey Norkin is a delight even without knowing references to Waiting For Godot. The rhythm and pacing are a true homage while the comedy is also so strong and unique. This would be an absolute joy to watch unfold on stage and even for both actors to switch roles on different performances.