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Aly Kantor

Recommended by Aly Kantor

  • The Greater and Lesser Edmunds of the World: a short play about bastards and birthright by Scott Sickles
    26 Jan. 2022
    “ Do you know what's an awesome problem to have with a two-hander? When you're unable to decide which character is your favorite because they're both so delightfully funny, specific, and vivid, even on the page! The dialogue in this piece is quick and witty, and the exposition is hidden brilliantly in the natural (if occasionally melodramatic) patter between these "brothers!" This short but vibrant Shakespearean comedy is a treat full of laughs and language, with a tender, well-earned ending. ”
  • SPITBALLS by Laurie Allen
    26 Jan. 2022
    “ A well-timed arrival during a sudden moment of ambivalence is enough to change the course of a teenager's life in this tender two-hander. These quirky, distinct characters are in control of this story from page one. This play perfectly captures the angst of being a teenage girl caught up in intense adolescent relationships. Still, the friendship at the center of this story evolved so sweetly and organically that I was sad when the play was over! I believe that there are a lot of kids who could benefit from seeing these gorgeous words embodied. It is lovely, cohesive, and kind. ”
  • To the Stars With Love by Nandita Shenoy
    25 Jan. 2022
    “ I love a Zoom play that makes clever use of the technology, and this short-lived reunion between two star-crossed lovers on different worlds is a fantastic virtual play. Both characters are highly motivated and distinct, and though they are connecting from a future we don't inhabit, their feelings are clear and contemporary. The moment when I realized what "the globe was" everything clicked. There is something both melancholy and hopeful about this imagined future. I don't know anyone who won't be able to relate to what is, at its core, a very simple tale of unrequited love. ”
  • Last Dance with MJ by Lindsay Partain
    25 Jan. 2022
    “ Who doesn't love smart, nerdy young women who are 1. allowed to be sexual beings and, 2. about to exact revenge on a jerk!? This play is full of emotionally-fueled, authentic dialogue that speaks to the experience of being a woman in today's weird, half-virtual dating pool. Best of all, at the core of this story is sisterhood and female friendship - without nastiness or competition. These are the kinds of roles that girls want to play - and the kind of roles they deserve! This short is full of laugh-out-loud lines that lead us to a satisfying conclusion! Wonderful! ”
  • The Shape of the Unknown by Emily McClain
    24 Jan. 2022
    “ Lately, I've been fascinated by the relationship between love and belief, and this play is such a unique exploration of this idea! This is a beautifully written, character-driven short that is simultaneously subtle and sublime. It is specific to this moment in history, yet uniquely universal. All of the details about MUFON added a satisfying amount of specificity that made the world of the play even more vivid and dimensional. The transformation we observe in both characters from the beginning to the end of the piece is incredibly natural. This is a relatable, emotional, funny, nerdy, socially distanced play! ”
  • On the 38th Kiss, I Explode by Matthew Weaver
    24 Jan. 2022
    “ Who knew that a play that started out so goofy would literally SHATTER MY HEART? I suppose I could have guessed, based on the title! Whatever the case, this is a silly, keenly funny play in which the scenario is simple but the stakes are unbearably high! The banter between the characters at the center of this star-crossed meet-cute is hilarious and natural. I can imagine an audience squirming in their seats as the play goes on and the kisses pile up! Though the ending is dark, this would fit right in as part of a Valentine's Day showcase! ”
  • Regression Session by Ali Gallo
    23 Jan. 2022
    “ This hilarious play is a blast from start to finish! I'm the type of person who uses my phone like a security blanket in social situations, so I could easily relate to the phone-obsessed Carol! As the situation in the play grew more absurd, I truly had no idea where it was going or how it would end - only that I was fully invested in this unconventional therapy session, which is equal parts relatable and ridiculous! I cannot imagine an actor who wouldn't jump at the chance to play such dynamic comedic material, either! Audiences will love this one! ”
  • OPPORTUNITIES by Rachael Carnes
    23 Jan. 2022
    “ You can absolutely tell that this absurd play was written by someone who loves language! So much of the absurdity in this piece is only absurd because we've all heard it before - but when it's all contained in one ten-minute performance, it almost becomes a kind of poetry?! I love how Carnes doesn't let the audience off the hook here, either! The reader gets to imagine the unseen and unheard, which makes the piece extra engaging. I promise that this is the most fun that you will have at a staff meeting! ”
  • Ghost Light by Sasha Karuc
    23 Jan. 2022
    “ This is a gorgeously specific slice-of-life play with characters that feel so human you'll be convinced that you know them. The play explores the relationship between two former partners as they slowly reveal the reason why they're no longer together. There is something very honest about the exchange - like a conversation you might really overhear in a theatre lobby. The action in the piece does as much work as the dialogue, which allows a lot to be revealed in just a few short pages. I think actors would really enjoy dreaming up backstories and bringing these characters to life! ”
  • Witch Way Is Up - a ten minute play by James C. Ferguson
    22 Jan. 2022
    “ When a missing ingredient interrupts a coven's revenge plot, the witches get into a tiff - and it's hilarious! These three characters have distinct voices and a wonderful dynamic. The fast-paced, incredibly funny dialogue would be a treat for three performers with excellent timing and rapport! It is loaded with little references, so audience members will be engaged throughout. This would be a great addition to a spooky showcase - or any ten-minute play festival! ”

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