Recommended by Morey Norkin

Cole Hunter Dzubak’s haunting words come from a place of deep sorrow, anger, and despair for the tragedy at Michigan State University. Right now, the response to the title is we’re not OK as long as these senseless tragedies continue. Cole’s words need to be read, performed, and taken to heart until something is done and we can truly say we’re OK.

I needed a good laugh, so no better place to turn to than a John Busser comedy! What’s a playwright to do when the characters are out of control? When the “actual” playwright is John Busser the answer is bring on the laughs! Bravo!

Disturbing. Because the kind of oppression depicted in Arianna Rose’s chilling drama has precedent, and the current state of world affairs does not bode well for the future. This is an important cautionary tale that should be shared widely.

Claudia Haas sums up the scourge of gun violence in the US in one short page. I read this shortly after learning about a shooting at Michigan State University. No doubt future readers/audiences will read/see this soon after another mass shooting. This one will touch a nerve, as it should.

As a DC native, I’m always interested in stories that take place in and around Washington. Andrew Martineau expertly captures the contradictions of the area: growth and gentrification at the expense of the neglected and underserved, the attraction of people who are genuinely interested in public service as well as those just looking to get ahead. Martineau has created four distinct, memorable characters whose separate conversations will leave you thinking about your own impact on the world and the people around you.

Absolutely charming! Imagine the possibility of finding love over a shared disappointment in the quality of Valentine’s Day cards. We can’t help but hope this is just the beginning for Curt and Jill. Andrew Martineau’s writing is clever and touching, unlike your typical VD card collection. Hallmark, if you’re listening…

Don Baker’s writing is so pitch perfect you might think he time traveled back to the 1950s to record Velma’s side of the phone conversation. Velma’s folksy manner and dessert making might make her seem like everyone’s favorite aunt, and her casual racism likely went unnoticed in her circles. Today, most of us know better. But there are still too many who would find her to be a favorite aunt. A great monologue for an older actor!

What a great comic twist on an historic milestone! John Busser has created a gem for a female actor. Not only taking on the role of an icon like Amelia Earhart, but Amelia Earhart with a full bladder! On route to becoming the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic, there is some brief foreshadowing of a future flight, but overall this is a hilarious adventure. Festival planners should ensure this is performed just before intermission or as the finale!

I came for the title, and this short mystery delivered the goods! Or maybe they only do takeout. A great visual punchline will leave audiences howling! Paul Smith strikes again!

Hannah Lee DeFrates creates a terrifying fantasy world or two where nothing is quite as it seems. Survival depends on adherence to strict rules of behavior. Is there a way out? That question drives the action and the terror! The fast-paced energy of this piece will both thrill and stun audiences!