Recommended by Morey Norkin

Hell yeah! This is one funny retelling of the story of creation. Jacob Horowitz has envisioned a very different Eden with Adam and his men and Eve and her ladies harvesting apples and oranges, respectively, and both sides separated by a wall. But what to make of a lone pear? The writing is very clever and often self-aware, which fully engages the reader/audience. Overall a wonderful commentary on the need to embrace our common humanity and build fewer walls.

Nothing says “Merry Christmas” quite like a John Busser comedy! These children’s Christmas wish lists are hilarious and also in some instances quite moving. In all cases they prove the old adage, kids say the darndest things! And Austin/Astin, good for you, buddy!

A complex short play that looks at how the “other,” in this case a young Jewish man, is viewed by someone from outside the group (a young gentile woman). Questions are asked that may be too personal or too ignorant, with an underlying expectation that the “other” should conform to the “outsider’s” pre-conceived notions. As Jacob Horowitz shows here, this is not the formula for a successful relationship. Many questions are asked during this play, and the audience will no doubt be left with a lot to discuss. What more could you ask for? Well done!

At this time of year, we are often told ‘tis the season to be jolly or be of good cheer. In OUR HOUSE TO YOURS, Stella makes every effort to go above and beyond in the family holiday letter, all while being gently corrected by her husband, Dan. With this play, Debra Cole has given us a loving gift that brings warm smiles but also sends a message that we all can welcome at this time of year or any other. Thank you, Deb!

Holding onto a piece of our childhood helps keep keep the spirit of the Christmas season alive for adults. And who better to remind us than Santa? A spirited two-hander sure to brighten your holiday!

Exquisite! This play may be the closest thing to perfection I have ever read. And I imagine I would have the same response if I’m ever fortunate enough to see it staged. The dialogue is sparse, poetic, and moving. The pain both characters feel is palpable and yet the story is truly life affirming. This is a must read!

This is such a sweet and positive play about an over-protective mother going a bit too far for her son. A meeting with an HR rep turns out to be surprisingly enlightening. Debra Cole does a terrific job of setting up certain expectations and then taking us in a different direction. A delightful two-hander for 40+ female actors.

I read this twice. The first time I smiled. The second time I cried. DEEPER has the wonderful breezy banter that Jacquie Floyd-Priskorn does so well. But it’s also infused with a darkness, a feeling of uncertainty. The allusion to Hamlet and our sense of free will to change our life or end it will have a profound effect on audiences. But Jacquie also presents us with hope. That whatever path we choose, it’s better if we have someone to hold our hand along the way. A lovely play that I would want to see several times.

This short holiday gem from Philip Middleton Williams examines the over commercialization of Christmas by taking a comically cynical look at how holiday advertising is created. Not only are any religious references against the “rules,” but the advertising team has a handy way of repurposing past commercials to suit any product! I especially liked the concept for the taxidermy company! Kind of like killing two deer with one Mercedes. A very funny play with a different holiday perspective. Hope this is being presented somewhere this season!

Permission to laugh out loud! PETTY DRAMA OFFICER is original, bizarre, zany, and just plain hilarious! Now I understand what the term “petty officer” really means! Someone please produce this!