Recommended by Morey Norkin

Tikkun olam, “repair the world.” Even under (or because of) the most horrific and despicable conditions, Dr. Gisella Perl is called on to summon her strength and skills to save others and thereby save herself. Jillian Blevins has written a brutally honest play that in spite of the horrors is also, beautiful, spiritual, and hopeful. MERE WATERS may be set in the past, but its relevance to current events can’t be denied. A brilliant and important work.

I don’t know if this kind of thing is already happening, but with the rash of draconian anti-abortion laws, this scenario seems certain. James McLindon captures the fear these laws intend to engender with tense dialogue that is completely believable for two teenagers. Hope this play receives continued readings and productions to encourage people to push back against current trends and support friends and family who want to make their own healthcare decisions.

What a joy! Danielle Frimer blends a very realistic, loud, and funny Passover Seder with a magical journey with Peter Pan. Sounds impossible, no? Rather than the prophet Elijah arriving, Pan shows up to take first-born Perri on a journey of self acceptance. It is truly a magical, theatrical experience, and one that I would love to witness someday.

One of Philip Middleton Williams’s best, which is saying something! By the end of the first scene, the potential conflicts are clearly outlined, but by then you’re hooked and anxious to learn the details. The power dynamics at an upscale private school raise serious ethical questions for first-year teacher, Marc. And then there are his lingering feelings for a recent ex. It all plays out in great dramatic fashion. I always feel a little wiser after reading a Philip Middleton Williams play. Read and learn.

The late night hours are the perfect time for sharing confidences. As Sienna tries to draw Tate out, Tate’s resistance serves to increase the tension. And Jaxson Mackling does a terrific job of letting the tension build until the reveal. Mackling provides a ray of hope for these two, but they are likely on a long voyage. A very effective two-hander focused on an important social issue.

This is a smart and surprisingly funny look at casting the role of Anne Frank in a production that seems unlikely to address any historical context of her brief life. So timely given the current trend of not teaching history that might make someone feel bad. Ultimately, like the three Annes, we’re asked to reflect on who she was and the harsh reality of her story. I hope this play will receive more exposure and encourage conversation. Well done.

Deb Cole has crafted a fascinating historical drama of artist Berthe Morisot and her relationship with her contemporaries, the Manet brothers. The world of art, the role of women, and “acceptable” romantic liaisons collide as societal norms weigh on all three characters. This play is driven by the characters and the smart dialogue and would shine on stage with a simple set accented with projections of the suggested artwork. Outstanding!

A harrowing story from the Holocaust that also shows incredible bravery in the character of ballerina Franciszka Mann. I did not know this story before, and I so appreciate Danielle Wirsansky bringing it to life in such an exquisite manner. I hope this play will be produced often so this story will get the exposure it deserves.

The night sky is filled with wonders and so too is Hannah Lee DeFrates’ imagination. This short piece, which makes lovely use of a nursery rhyme to bridge time and space, is romantic and wistful and will leave you wanting to spend more time in this garden.

A brilliant concept executed flawlessly! Shakespeare and the King’s Men, plus a couple of special guests, rehearsing Lear via Zoom. What could possibly go wrong? Just everything that usually goes wrong on Zoom. There are still opportunities for Zoom production, so I hope someone looking for a clever comedy will choose this one.