Recommended by Morey Norkin

The history of the “comfort women” during the Japanese occupation of Korea was and remains a source of controversy and conflict between the two nations. But Scott Sickles doesn’t shy away from presenting this human tragedy in a way that feels historically accurate and relevant to present day culture wars. The impassioned monologue from Mitsuko alone sets this work apart. Mitsuko (and her mother) may not be Chocho-san, but this play is nevertheless the stuff of great opera. Fantastic read!

From the mother of all origami bees comes a play that unfolds to reveal soaring prose, manic humor, and a beautiful recognition of what is and what might be. As Aly Kantor’s characters reach a moment of clarity, we learn that just being there, just doing something can be enough. But the opportunity to read a play like this feels like much more. If you find yourself needing a boost to continue something or start something new, read this.

A truly beautiful work of art. Steven G. Martin has come up with an ingenious concept for incorporating the audience in a completely immersive experience. I can’t help but imagine myself as an audience member, wondering what my unique contribution is and how it adds to the whole. And maybe that’s the point. How wonderful.

With the focus on lesser known members of the Franklin family, this play manages to bring a unique and compelling look at the movement toward American independence and the personalities behind it. Combining extensive research and sheer creative energy, Alaina Tennant gifts us with an emotional family story and an examination of how history is often shaped by those seeking personal advantage. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for great theater, this is the perfect choice.

A vampire finds sanctuary with a rabbi at a university campus Chabad house. Right there you know you’re in for something unique. Jacob Horowitz could have taken that premise in a number of different directions, perhaps leaning heavily towards the comic implications. Rather, he chose gentle humor and keen insight to provide this thoughtful take on faith and humanity. Very well done.

The setting for this story is one hundred years ago, but the bigotry, extremism, cultism, religious and political coercion are disturbingly relevant today. Don Baker has created a powerful, important work that needs to be seen now more than ever. Please make it so.

As you might expect from a story taken from the Holocaust, this play is absolutely chilling. But if we are to ever learn from history, stories like QUI VIVRA VERRA must continue to be told. Thank you Danielle Wirsansky for bringing this story, as difficult as it is, to light.

I can think of a few people I’d like to refer to The Hive! This is the first play I’ve read from Colette Marie Murphy. What a great first impression! No spoilers here. Just read and enjoy!

This sharp, fast-paced family drama starts out as a recognizable conversation in which family members dodge the chore of walking the dog during foul weather. But Paul Smith adds an unexpected turn of events that quickly ratchets up the tension with verbal and physical sparring. Is it too late for this family to heal? Or did the events actually play out differently? I will be asking myself these questions for quite some time and I think audiences will as well. A true sign of a terrific play.

Chris Plumridge has stol… I mean borrowed the character of PI John Pie and taken him out for a solo spin. Is this the real world or is this just fantasy? That is the question at the heart of this noir nwugget.
Misty-eyed, I closed my NPX tab. And I started singing, Bye bye see ya PI John Pie…