Recommended by Morey Norkin

Chris Plumridge has created the most delightful character in Autumn D’Winter! Yes, that’s her name, and she explains the backstory in great comic fashion. Oh the embarrassment of having a fall or falling over in public! Especially when your nemesis from bingo is a witness! A terrific monologue for a female actor of a certain age and a sure fire hit at any festival!

Weird and wonderful! Four writers on a Manhattan rooftop. Two of them regaling us with how their new relationship came about. The stories resemble their respective genres in over-the-top fashion to great comic effect. Even a seemingly throwaway line like “Dear. Dumpling. Mandu.” had me guffawing! Great fun for four actors and their audience!

From childhood bullying, to a rich tale of creation, and on to a deeper understanding of purpose through martial arts training, Christopher Soucy’s monologue provides many lessons to help us better appreciate our differences and the beauty of our various cultural heritages. Soucy writes that through martial arts, he learned “When you master something, anything, it shows you what it takes to master something, anything.” Clearly, he has mastered the art of playwriting.

Daniel Prillaman provides plenty of laughs in this absurdist, dystopian work. But the comedy belies the deeper questions addressed related to how we value art, human life, and our roles in society. The tension between the two security guards, sometimes comic sometimes menacing, is heightened further with the introduction of each new character. Brilliant writing! This play needs to be put on its feet!

Absolutely charming! Entering high school is a big, scary deal. And it can be difficult to talk about your fears. Jaxson Mackling skillfully handles the conversation between mother and daughter, creating a nostalgic moment for older audience members and giving hope to younger ones. Well done!

Our furry family members ask so little of us and give so much in return. Perhaps most importantly, is what they teach us about love, loss, and healing. That is BROMPTON’S TRUTH. Lovely, universal, and yet deeply personal. Thank you, Brompton.

Aunt Nellie’s Two Cents Worth is rich in character, homespun wisdom, and Hoosier dialect. As a mother worries she may be losing her son to his fiancée’s family, all the more worrisome because they are of a different faith, in steps Aunt Nellie. The dialogue is comfortable and airy, concerns are expressed and wisdom imparted in just the time it takes to fold a basket of towels. Perfect!

A police drama and night at a comedy club rolled into one! John Busser turns a police interrogation into a fast-paced, hilarious improv routine. My favorite bit was Biblical Epic! Not surprisingly, this play has received numerous accolades. Many more should be in its future!

When you’re laughing at the character list, you know you’re in for a good time! Christopher Plumridge gives new meaning to bringing the page to life as every element at a playwright’s disposal gets to have its say. Except maybe Bit Part! (Still laughing as he prepares to hit Submit.)

Got me! Paul Smith’s writing is always clever, and 12, ANGRY, MEAN is a perfect example! A worrisome counseling session takes a most unexpected turn in this short but oh so effective play! This should be a welcome addition to any short play festival!