Recommended by Jack Levine

DC CATHRO uses his creativity to imagine a conversation between the mother of a convicted murder and “Juror #3”, who is out walking her baby. This piece skillfully looks at the pain and suffering endured by the mother of the killer. Who or what made a young, playful, innocent boy turn into a deviate killer? And, what is the effect of the case on a Black juror, who is aware of the prejudices of society. This is a thoughtful and interesting play to read. It would be a powerful piece in a festival.

EMILY MCLAIN has captured the essence of what it takes to handle a parent’s passive-aggressive posture, when a child has dared to follow their heart’s choice and the parent hates it. I love this play, “All Roads Lead to Rome”, for its truth, for its heartfelt passion, and for its relevance. A loving couple, gay or straight, should live their lives as they see fit. A parent should honor their choice. This is a wonderful play!

STEVEN HAYET uses the the board game’Clue’ and its characters to tell a murder-mystery, which is truly a delight to read. “A Clue in the Library” will have you guessing, laughing, and delighted you read this charming short play. The twists and ending are fantastic!

STEVEN SAN LUIS’s play is well-written, witty, and thought provoking. It talks about immigration, social status and justice, and politics, but not in a way you usually expect. “Border Troll” is one of those plays you will want to reread just to be sure you see the layers of messages. This is a must-read. I would love to see it performed.

BRUCE KARP’s “Murder, She Caused!” play is about an aging actress, who desperately needs to be in front of the public. Unfortunately, her popular, long-running television show has been cancelled. Should she look for a role on Broadway? Should she...but wait, our lending lady has a plan to have a spectacular last show. As all actors know, there are always different choices. You will enjoy this well-crafted short,

RACHAEL CARNES has written an adorable romantic comedy for Valentine’s Day, or any other day for that matter. “Personal Best (A Teeny Valentine for Zoom)” puts two people on a telephone call completely by chance. Both have a different agenda, at first, but all comes together in a most satisfying way.

STEPHEN SPOTSWOOD’s play, “The Man in the PowderBlue Suit”, is an interesting piece on a seemly inconsequential moment in time for a young girl, yet it becomes one of the most pivotal moments in her life.

JOHN KELLY has written a beautiful short of how our lives can make us rich with the friendship of people, the joy of playing with pets, and the sharing of our time to help other people. “Ol’ Jack” does not appear in this play but his lifestyle is on display, and if a young waitress would pay attention, she would get the biggest tip of her life.

EMILY MCCLAIN’s monologue reminded me of the perils we, as actors, may encounter, when we are cast for a play that ends up being, shall we say, a bit different than expected. Directors have complete authority to bring their creative talents to bear, which usually enhances the performance. But, put weird and wacky together, mix in a little over-the-top, and it might be a good idea to bow out. This is a fun play. “Christmas Carol: Fury Road” will delight audiences at any time of year.

ROBIN RICE explores the hidden feelings of the guilt of a teenager, who denies the truth to everybody including herself. “#No Such Thing (Monologue)” makes cleansing oneself impossible unless you tell the truth. This is a ‘must-read’, or watch performed, for all teenagers. In fact, this monologue will be a hit with audiences of all ages.