Recommended by Morey Norkin

A teacher shares her concern about one of her students, letting the young man know he has someone looking out for him. Every student should be so lucky. Well done!

As Debra Cole says in her synopsis, some thoughts should just remain thoughts. A thoughtless remark handled with grace by the target. Good on ya!

Intense because it’s so real! Here in Japan with a large senior population, this scenario is all too common. Debra Cole provides the perfect balance between the bewilderment of the senior driver and the compassion of the pharmacy employee.

Funny, shocking, with an undercurrent of tenderness that is masked by the long-standing rivalry of these two strong female characters. Joyce Newman Scott’s take on the acting biz and the lack of opportunities for women over a certain age rings true as does the competitiveness of actors who constantly find themselves at the same auditions. This play presents a welcome opportunity for two female actors and I imagine even the auditions would be worth attending.

This is an absolute joy to read and no doubt the same would be can be said for seeing it on the stage. What a funny retelling of the story of creation and how it didn’t go exactly according to plan. I’m still laughing over the “Holy 5-second rule.”

An impatient adult son and a father harboring a deep, dark secret. With Scott Sickles’ deft touch, the father finds the courage to share his story with his son, and in return the son shares his skill as a teacher to help his father leave a beautiful message for his infant granddaughter. As someone currently engaged in teaching English as a foreign language, I was truly touched by this deeply moving drama. Anyone would be.

In this charming short play, Christopher Plumridge pays loving tribute to his grandfather. With the chaos of WWII as the backdrop, Plumridge’s tale focuses on nature and a sign of hope in a newly hatched blackbird cared for by the elder Plumridge. I sincerely hope Chris has the opportunity to portray his grandfather in this quiet, thoughtful play.

Who knew that assisted living facilities came with fringe benefits?! In Debra A. Cole’s delightful 10-minute comedy, four senior ladies bored with scrabble decide it’s time to get back in the saddle so to speak. At Rancho Felicidad, nicknamed Wrinkle Ranch, opportunities abound for busting broncos, and possibly a hip if you’re not careful! This should be a welcome addition at any 10-minute play festival.

After reading Kate McMorran’s very short but hilarious “I Don't Want To End Up As A Douchebag Character In One Of Your Plays: A Play,” I wanted to immediately follow up with a longer sample. “The Registry” confirms McMorran’s talent and gift for comedy. The action is primarily between two sisters arguing, discussing, and finally understanding the unique plan the younger sister has in mind. All the while taking on capitalism, social activism, weddings, marriage, religion, and the very nature of love. Well done!

And there you have it!