Recommended by Morey Norkin

What starts out as a sweet example of human kindness, turns into a funny lesson about truth in advertising. Sweet and funny, what more could you want in just over three pages? Enjoy!

As a cat parent who still misses our first cat after losing her nine years ago, I was deeply moved by this sweet play. If you’ve been a pet parent, you will recognize the grief that Erin is experiencing. And if you are still grieving the loss of a beloved pet, this play might just be the thing to help you see the light. Torachi, you are long overdue for a visit.

Powerful, riveting, unflinching. These are just some of the adjectives that describe this brilliant dramatic work from Paul Donnelly. A senseless tragedy results in two families having their worlds turned upside down in very different ways. Questions of character, guilt, forgiveness, and martyrdom are raised during intense confrontations, but no easy answers are given. Right from the opening monologue, Donnelly pulls us in and the story keeps a tight grip right up to the end. I highly recommend this and would absolutely love to see it staged!

What is the world coming to when Bette Midler feels her career is on the rocks? And how much footwear can a musical legend carry on a rooftop? John Busser imagined quite an unusual situation, with the Divine Miss M feeling the need to jump. Tasked with talking her down are a good cop and a not so bright cop. There are plenty of laughs and an explosive ending! Definitely one I’d love to see live!

With or without tattoos, this is every father’s calling. A terrific monologue to demonstrate Pride all year round. As always, Deb Cole doesn’t mince words as she presents a strong character delivering a powerful message .

A beautifully crafted journey dealing with terminal illness. There is, of course, a sense of inevitability, but the richness of the characters and complexity of their relationships make this journey so worthwhile. You will be drawn in by the crisp dialogue and mesmerized by the stunning monologues. Have tissues close by.

No one conjures up time, place, and mood quite like Christopher Plumridge. Especially mood. A hotel lounge where patrons retain their anonymity. A lady in red. Smiles and drinks shared. Temptation! Where will it lead? You may be surprised! Pleasantly, I think. Would love to see this staged!

A reunion of two sorority sisters quickly escalates from a simple tea to a gripping political thriller! Lauren is a career politician who has probably taken advantage of more than one relationship as her fortunes rise. Jessica is one such friend. But now Jessica has a request. The story is timely and tension filled. A great vehicle for two female actors and for any festival!

I should have known better, but no! I let Christopher Plumridge lead me down the garden path, much like Charles does to his wife, Mary, in this very clever, dark monologue. Structured as three letters from Charles to Mary, the narrative becomes increasingly resentful, menacing, and humorous all at the same time! I don’t even know how that’s possible! And then there’s the payoff! Brilliant!

I’m reminded of Cheers, a bar where everybody knows your name. Curtains Down is the hangout for theatre has beens, almost made its, and never wases. A place to share memories, cry over regrets, and drown sorrows. And Rachel Feeny-Williams has provided a colorful, compelling collection of characters to share a toast with. A pixie, a stripper, and a… tree! But as varied as the clientele is, there is a sense of community and support that lets this charming story end on an optimistic note. That’s show biz!