Recommended by Jack Levine

ROBERT WEIBEZAHL captures a poignant moment for the niece of an uncle who has loss his life in the service of his Country. “Bronze Buddha” resonated with me. In the foreign land of Vietnam, our soldiers sought solace whenever they could. I can picture a soldier buying the Buddha, not as a souvenir, but as a connection to a Higher Power. Her uncle did not convert; he simply took for himself what was available for what he desperately needed: Spirituality.

FRANCIS RTM BOYLE’s monologue, “How I Joined the Navy”, reminded me of when I went to the Recruiting Office and had the full treatment of why I should enlist to become a Finance Officer, as I had a Bachelors of Science degree in Accounting. When I was miles away from the place where I was told how easy, safe, and spectacular it would be, I was in South Korea in the Army’s Infantry. I suppose there’s no reason to complain; I ate well; I got a lot of exercise; I got free room and board.

KERR LOCKHART’s “Shared Credit” is a brilliant, in-depth look at the reality of finding oneself in the torment, frustration, and guilt one might have. Both writers have different demons within them, and yet together, there is a beautiful symmetry of wanting to be more than they have been. The morality and ethics of it all; the impediments of being triumphant as they strive for it; the interplay of reaching the top while wallowing in the dread of ‘not being good enough’. I truly love this play! It moved me! BRAVO!

RENEE SCHNEBELIN has written a nice short piece. “Charlotte’s Love” is sweet and endearing. I look forward to reading more of Renee’s work.

RYAN VAUGHAN’s “Until Today” is a sweet, endearing romantic comedy. Two parents discover that love can be found a second time around. It’s a nice piece, which audiences will love!

MARK HARVEY LEVINE is a remarkable writer. He always comes up with fascinating plays. “The Folks (a ten minute play)” is no exception. There is so much truth in this splendidly written piece. I love the recognition of the reality of having parents who ‘get into your head’. Bravo!

JOHN BUSSER’s “Higher Power” takes us back in time, puts us with the holiest of persons, in a place nobody would’ve expected, and makes it into a hilarious play. I highly recommend “A Higher Power”.

ROBERT WEIBEZAHL takes us on a most interesting stopover to a backyard pool. One might think it would only be neighborly to share. But then again, maybe privacy is a better choice. “SwimShare” is truly weird, wonderful, and wacky.

BILL ARNOLD has taken a seemingly dreadful situation of slaves rowing and turned it into a splendid comedy in which fine speech, manors, and protocol replace the ‘usual’ pain, suffering, hopelessness, and wretchedness, usually seen. “Using All Good People For Your Galley Slaves” is a marvelous play. I loved the ending!

PAUL DONNELLY’s play, “Family Visitation (Ten Minute), is so poignant, and yet, so touching of a true love of the roommate who comes for a final farewell. I felt the helplessness of one who only wanted a quick goodbye, the tragedy of an unforgiving Mother’s wishes, and the hidden agenda of the nurse.