Recommended by Morey Norkin

The charming Stillwell sisters are deserving of a spot alongside the most well-known literary sleuths. I love a good whodunnit, and Vivian Lermond’s “For Love or Money” fits the bill perfectly! The play moves at a nice pace befitting the two sisters, even with time for tea. Written as a radio play and no doubt a listening pleasure, this play would also be a joy to see on the stage. Fun characters all around and a plot that will keep you guessing.

Emma Wood has crafted a clever, short play that deals with the stress of being a parent, a mother in particular, to small children in the age of covid. Lots of laughs (even a mention of Gandalf!) but also a sense of vulnerability that will resonate with audiences. The play is a Zoom therapy session, and this will work equally well on Zoom or on stage. Why not both?!

The detailed description of the setting - a recording studio. The quiet of the characters wearing headphones and speaking in low tones. Even the drinking glasses are muzzled. And you’re enjoying the memories of two older actors commenting on their film from 50 years ago. Then the detail of the film being viewed. And a memory triggered that pierces through the quiet and leaves you stunned. Kerr Lockhart has crafted an amazing piece of theater! Wonderful roles, especially for two older actors. Would love to see this staged!

It’s no exaggeration to say Hyperbole Heights is a pure delight! Imagine the Marx Brothers, the Three Stooges, and Rocky & Bullwinkle all going to the same elementary school. That’s how zany and fun this play is! Jacquie Floyd does it again!

Christopher Plumridge is a master of suspense and other worldliness. A really interesting family dynamic that intensifies as we see more of Samantha’s Friend. Guaranteed to raise a few goosebumps!

THE KNOWN UNIVERSE is the inevitable conclusion to Scott Sickles’ brilliant, spellbinding, emotion-packed SECOND WORLD TRILOGY. And although I say “inevitable” this is a journey that must be taken. It will take a toll on you for sure. But you will also experience love in its purest form. And love rarely comes without heartache. Read the other recommendations. They will convince you, as they did me, to read this play and the others. Once you start, there’s no turning back.

PANGEA reintroduces us to the 11-year-old protagonists of MARIANAS TRENCH, now both adults and accomplished in their respective scientific fields. That these two survived, both physically and in terms of their love, is quite a relief. But their emotional, hopeful reunion is set against the doubtful survival of the planet. Another beautifully crafted story from Scott Sickles. And although I can’t help but think of this in relation to the first play in his trilogy, PANGEA absolutely stands on its own. I don’t know where the final chapter will take me, but I’m ready to go.

I feel as though I just completed a master class in playwriting. Beautifully written, fully developed characters that we instantly care for, and a story that pulls us in and refuses to let go. Scott Sickles sets his play in a divided America that is uncomfortably close to where the country is headed. I found myself feeling despair and hopeful for Anzor and Teddy. And though I fear what may be ahead for these two, I have no choice but to finish the trilogy!

John Busser, the true miracle is thy sense of humor! The description says 15 minutes, but the running time could easily double as actors are forced to hold for laughs. A truly righteous play, dude!

Chocolate cake is irresistible. What I wouldn’t do for a piece of chocolate cake right now. Building up to the punchline in “Guilty” is no piece of cake, but Monica Cross pulls it off beautifully. I feel guilty for laughing.