Recommended by Mathew Green

Sigh. Once again I am swept up in this (almost literal) whirlwind of emotion and expression. These characters are unique yet relatable, lived-in yet constantly surprising. I hope it's not reductive to say that these 10-minute plays are like a beloved comic strip come to life, allowing us to check in on characters we love and to feel charmed and warmed by their proximity.

Oh hell yes. I'm a sucker for the inner lives of beloved storybook characters, especially those who question or rebel against their given circumstances, and this play delivers a glorious call to arms... or hands... or one hand. A comedy that is somehow dark and sweet at the same time and a very good time indeed.

I adore this play. A terrific concept, thoughtfully guided to a satisfying and hilarious conclusion. And while this would be a blast for actors, I cannot stop myself from imagining the people on whom the characters are based doing it themselves. A completely energizing and fun read. Well done!

This play packs so much life into its ten minutes of stage time. The relationships are dynamic and full of emotion, and the dialogue flows in a realistic but highly entertaining way. Added to which, there's a frankly startling amount of stage business that makes this short play that much more impressive.

This is a shockingly impactful piece. The set-up is deceptively simple, but the payoff is huge. Shades of very relatable human struggles exist in these characters and in these lines. It is not so uncommon to feel like you need the flame, and a good friend is a priceless treasure. Beautifully done.

A low-key conversation weighted with bittersweet reminiscence. Instantly relatable characters and a gentle touch throughout. These two could be sitting at the next table, which reminds us just how many meaningful stories are all around us. Great work.

A deft and romantic take on the all-too-familiar query/admonition we so frequently face. It is an admirable thing to so cleverly craft an effective narrative in so short a page-count. Lovely work.

A potent examination of faith in practice, pitting an exclusionary (and sadly prevalent) version of Christianity against a far more accepting, humanistic approach. Well-drawn characters who speak believably and spend their 10-minutes of stage time well. Excellent, heartfelt work.

Family over the law. Religion over the individual. The need to maintain over the need to obtain. This is a striking snapshot of the forces that drive us and bind us.

If you are a young or new-to-the-life playwright wondering how to create a dynamic, character-forward monologue that will grab an audience's attention and tantalize actors at the same time... here's your example. Pencils down. We have a winner.