Recommended by Brenton Kniess

Theresa Yonash's SWEET CORN IN BRINE is captivating ten minute play that examines the nature of human connection and modern relationships. Yonash infuses the interaction with a sense of catharsis and intensity. In just ten minutes, Yonash masterfully lays out the relationship between Dean and Natalie as the characters are well drawn and realistically crafted. This is an authentic and relatable piece of theatre that should be performed.

James Kelsey Nelson's SEASON SELECTION is a fast-paced, hilarious meta-theatre comedy. The characters are dynamic, quirky, and downright fun! This play would work tremendously well at any 10-minute play festival!

James Kelsey Nelson has a natural ability to capture common situations, infusing them with well-drawn characters and quick-witted comedy. This is a fantastic short play that any actor can relate to!

Many people use media as a form of escapism. Video games is a prime example, as they offer a level of comfort and familiarity as we know what world we’re placing ourselves in. But what happens when the real world enters the game? The answer may surprise you, but like any good game developer, Lipschutz places us in a world rich of imagination and depth. This is a magical play that would be a true delight for any director and designer. Very much looking forward to witnessing the world premiere!

12/1/24 - Claire Waldrop’s FLICKER not only has a compelling atmosphere, but it also provides us with authentic characters that are impressively fully realized in a matter of seconds. FLICKER shows us that we see our true self not in light, but in darkness. This is an incredibly original play that deserves an audience.

11/21/24 - What makes a John Mabey script so profound is the power of shared experiences. No matter how you experienced it, Mabey is always able to find a way to make you not just comprehend the emotional stakes, but makes you feel apart of it. From the craftsmanship of the dialogue to the beauty of authenticity in its characters, John Mabey’s THE SHAPE OF GOODBYE is an encapsulating piece of how we attempt to shape our life in the face of grief.

Andrew Martineau’s SPIN CYCLE is a lovely slice of life play that is unique, thought provoking, and incredibly engaging. I absolutely love the laundry mat setting, where we meet Jim and Mandy. While we find ourselves in the “two strangers aren’t so different after all” trope, the way Martineau layers the storytelling with clever reveals and motivations that blossoms into something real and memorable. He takes the trope and makes it his own. This is a lovely play for either stage or audio. Bravo!

I absolutely love the build up of tension Barry writes in the piece. It doesn’t show up too early and not too late, wonderfully paced and structured. I want to see more!

TAKE MY WIFE! is highly inventive, unique, funny, and bold. Sarah Jae Leiber doesn’t pull any punches within the delivery of the play. The characters are so well crafted in this overly manic world that Leiber so expertly lays out. Would be a highlight at any short play festival.

Wow! Barry Wallace’s BLACK BALLONS is unique, suspenseful, and down right creepy! The way in which Wallace pulls back the layers is expertly executed. This is a great dark comedy for your short play festival!