Recommended by Morey Norkin

You do not need to be a Christian or have any religious affiliation to thoroughly enjoy and be moved by this New Testament story, told from the perspective of Jesus’ brother James. Using casual modern English, Lisa Dellagiarino Feriend combines a sharp wit and warmth to bring even the most saintly characters down to earth to highlight their humanity. I would absolutely love to see this staged!

I have to admit my ignorance of most of the female historical figures presented in this outstanding piece, largely because they weren’t taught when I was a student, their contributions to the sciences were not recognized, or their contributions were misappropriated by their male counterparts. Nora Louise Syran provides valuable lessons as four teenage girls in detention are required to write about women from the Enlightenment. As their research progresses, history comes to life. And we are all the more wiser and better off for it!

Great friendships are often forged on sporting grounds, including tennis courts. Such is the case with Pat and Don. As Pat sees tennis as a negative metaphor for life that has led to his failing marriage, Don sees the positive aspects of the metaphor as he tries to encourage his friend. A tender and moving story in a few short pages. Advantage Dana Hall!

I don’t think I’ve ever come across a non-musical that had characters sharing lines as in a duet until now. This technique, and the entire play, is handled masterfully by Ken Preuss. The mirror image of the two settings and movement and the overarching theme of relationships as puzzles to be carefully pieced together all make for an outstanding theatrical experience. This play truly needs to find its way onto more stages!

Hilarious! Feriend so perfectly captures the suspicious/jealous husband movie trope, I couldn’t help but imagine Rock Hudson and Doris Day in the leads. And with ending #1, which I prefer, throw in Tony Randall as Patrick and you have a perfect 60’s romantic farce! Love it!

Is a first-class vacation to Italy worthwhile if there are some serious strings attached? That’s the question at the heart of this terrific two-hander. Kellie and her wife, Sarah, have to decide if they should accept Kellie’s parent’s’ invitation, knowing they will be subject to homophobic slights and religious proselytizing from said parents. The conversation is clever, funny, and emotional. You’ll be anxious to know what the couple decide and even curious about what happens next!

A delightful personification of Earth and Moon with a timely (we hope) message about the current state of our home planet. Good fun, great message!

Rachel Feeny-Williams gets right to the heart of the matter as she explores how one can renew their passion after having their confidence shaken. The opportunities for this to happen to a writer are too frequent. But hopefully nothing a strong dose of confidence can’t cure. This is a fun and encouraging look at how our cardiovascular and nervous systems respond when we receive criticism for the work we are passionate about. You’ll be rooting for this writer’s internal monitors as they hop into action.

Stunning. Yes. And disturbing. Chris Plumridge has brilliantly crafted a monologue that moves in unexpected directions, with each shift adding a new layer to the story. And then the conclusion. Stunning. In every sense of the word. A powerful piece of theatre to challenge actors and audiences alike.

I truly hope this play finds its way into the intended venue of middle and high school faculty in-service meetings. The scenario presented along with the facilitated discussion that Debra Cole includes needs to be shared in as many school districts as possible, particularly where legislation is attempting to stifle any mention LGBTQ+ issues. Debra Cole may be retired from the teaching profession, but she continues to provide us all with valuable lessons through her writing. How lucky we are!