Recommended by Dana Hall

In "Is My Sun Shining?" by Ian Donley, Alec's journey through grief is a raw and gripping exploration of human vulnerability. Donley masterfully weaves together moments of anger, guilt, and longing as Alec grapples with the aftermath of Brayden's death. The dynamic between Alec and Brayden is deeply nuanced, revealing layers of their relationship and the lingering unresolved issues. Despite its weighty themes, the play is interspersed with humor and levity, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness. Our loved one's are always with us. Beautiful Ian.

Meet Mister Frank, the substitute teacher who defies all expectations with his comedic antic of engagement. A treat for both the audience and the actors alike. A special shoutout to Bob for the unforgettable moment that had me spitting out my drink: 'I would have loved that puppy.' Bravo!

Each character is portrayed with remarkable depth and complexity. From start to finish, I was fully engrossed in their stories, feeling the weight of their anger and the impact of their collective trauma. This gripping narrative deserves to be witnessed on stage, where its themes can truly come to life.

"Space Laser, In Space!" by Jillian Blevins skillfully merges humor, tension, and an exploration of Jewish identity. Blevins expertly crafts a narrative that is both thought-provoking and engaging, delivering sharp commentary on cultural identity and historical trauma. This play is a compelling blend of science fiction and personal drama, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. With a unique setting, high stakes, well-rounded characters, it is incredibly poignant- I loved it!

"Clouds," by Joe Swenson, is a deeply moving exploration of grief, love, and the bond between siblings. Through the characters of Penelope and Declan, Swenson masterfully portrays the complexities of coping with loss while capturing poignant moments of memory and hope. The setting adds a bittersweet layer, reflecting the invisible pain and enduring love that define their relationship. This play is a touching tribute to the power of memory and the comfort found in looking to the sky.

"Target, After Lunch, and Other Judgments on the State of Man" by Darrin J. Friedman is a compelling monologue that delves into the complexities of parenthood, sacrifice, and societal expectations. It underscores the immense responsibility and the desire to protect one's child from those who may not understand or appreciate their needs. This piece is a powerful testament to caregiving, highlighting the profound sacrifice and love it entails. Real and raw, it deserves to be produced and shared widely.

Debra A. Cole's "SO GAY" is more than just a play; it's a powerful force for sparking vital conversations about LGBTQIA+ inclusion and the role of educators in addressing classroom harassment. Through a richly complex narrative, Cole prompts audiences to confront uncomfortable truths and consider alternative approaches. The play's message of inclusivity, empathy, and social responsibility resonates deeply and deserves to be shared widely across school districts, offering hope and inspiring positive change. Brava Deb proud to call you friend!!

This monologue hits home for me! After my own burger commercial audition, where a fellow actor warned me not to eat the burgers, I couldn't believe how accurately this experience was portrayed with such humor by Sapio. Produce this! It's a rollercoaster of laughter, cringes, and maybe even some second thoughts about fast food. I have a feeling Bobby DiNero would get a kick out of it, too!

There's something exhilarating about watching chaos unfold on stage, and The Eighth Swing captures that excitement perfectly! Poor Connar, armed with nothing but a script and sheer determination, valiantly attempts to tackle the role of a lifetime. Every stage manager can't help but cringe at the thought of such a situation in real life! This play is a whirlwind of unpredictability, fun, and a fresh concept that leaves you wanting to hear how things turn out...though I think we know-- it's hilarious.

Rachel Feeny-Williams once again delivers a powerful work that resonates with raw honesty. As Amelia confronts the challenges of inadequate support from hospital staff and the agonizing wait for news, Amelia's resilience shines as a testament to the unwavering strength of love. Rachel's writing takes you through all the feels, and at the end, you'll feel like you walked all "18,936 Steps" with Amelia.