Recommended by Morey Norkin

Marc Paykuss takes an unflinching look at today’s college culture that attempts to shield students from speech (from guest speakers, entertainers, etc.) that may be upsetting. Art, in the case of this play stand-up comedy, has a point of view. It’s not intended to be neutral. Some people will be offended. But they have a choice whether to consume it. TRIGGER WARNING will certainly promote discussion, but only if theater groups actually believe that’s what good theater is about.

A charming two-hander for senior actors. Family secrets and a budding romance are on tap when two strangers meet at a poorly attended funeral. This one left me with a smile and a craving for fish and chips.

The repetitious act of waking up each morning brings new challenges or opportunities depending on your perspective. In this beautifully crafted and moving two-hander from Lee Lawing, we see how the separate morning routines affect Joey and Heather in positive and worrisome ways, respectively. The serendipitous meeting of these two is just what I was hoping for and I have no doubt audiences will feel the same. Every day can’t be perfect, but waking up is still a good thing. You might get to read a an amazing play like A CROSSING.

I admit I read this hearing my best Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall impressions in my head. That’s how vivid Martha Patterson’s dialogue is. There’s nothing quite like noir to bring out the fatale in femme fatale, and the appropriately named Randy exceeds expectations. This one has it all. Just like Bogey and Bacall.

So much wisdom and beauty packed into this brief but compelling monologue. I don’t think you’ve likely to find a better summation of what it is to be in love. And an ending guaranteed to bring a knowing smile to your face.

Sure the job has some pressure, but it comes with a great title and you can cause all kinds of hell! Fast and funny, just the way all job interviews should be. Someone produce this for heaven’s sake!

The stage is Arianna Rose’s canvas, and in THE EQUIVALENT OF SENSATION, she fills it with rich portraits of of four women noted for their considerable contributions to art and literature in the first half of the twentieth century. As wonderful as all of these characters are, it is Etta Cone, who steps out from the shadows cast by her sister, Claribel, and Gertrude Stein to drive this intricate narrative. This play has received a great deal of recognition, and is deserving of much more.

A blind date from Hell that takes a turn I could never have imagined. Fortunately, Evan Baughfman could imagine it. Hysterically brilliant!

Because it is so well-written, so believable, and so timely, CLOSING DOORS Is absolutely maddening, which I believe is John Minagan’s intention. That elementary schools need active shooter drills is maddening. That the protocols are so rigid that traumatizing a student is an acceptable outcome is maddening. Like zero tolerance policies that are actually zero compassion. Ok, I need to settle down after reading this. It’s brilliant. I hope it gets even more people worked up.

A certain poster sparks memories as a mother and her adult son rummage through the attic. Their bond is clearly one filled with warmth and humor. A completely engaging 10 minutes. Hoping to catch the PlayZoomers presentation later this month.