Recommended by Morey Norkin

A story that has brought joy to millions of children had a far less positive effect on the child who inspired it. Alaina Tennant tells the story of Christopher Robin Milne and his relationship with his parents and the famous story in beautiful and heartbreaking fashion. In what I consider to be the climactic moment, the tension between father and son was so intense it took my breath away! This is absolutely ready to be staged!

Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, children of all ages, if you’re looking for a silly, fun, and heartwarming time, the Linguini Brothers Circus is the place for you! With a mix of charming, mostly animal characters, Brent Alles teaches us that even if we can’t be circus headliners, we all have talents that make us unique. Along the way, he treats us to some great dad jokes, puns, and not so hidden song lyrics. Pure joy!

Nora Louise Syran provides an idyllic setting for this gathering of three sisters. The conversation moves naturally from topic to topic as the older sister attempts to cut off any discussion of sensitive issues (i.e., politics and Covid conspiracies). Although differences emerge, the sibling bonds remain strong. Three great roles with one having a terrific monologue. Besides being moved by the story, I was left with a strong desire for steamed crabs, Old Bay, and corn on the cob.

Change does not come easily, particularly as we age. In this compelling drama, Tom Erb demonstrates this perfectly as we see in one case change comes too late. In the other case, there may still be time. Issues of gender identity and sexual orientation may cause confusion or worse between generations, but as this play movingly shows us, acceptance is the only path forward. Great roles for two older gentlemen.

I just had the pleasure of watching a performance of this by PlayZoomers, and it works perfectly! Two writers of very different genres happen to meet in an airport lounge when their flight is delayed. As they reveal themselves it turns out that their lives are nothing like the characters they create. Through their witty banter a chemistry develops and we’re left smiling at the prospect that their lives are about to become very interesting indeed.

Wonderfully well written, this play moves with ease from outrageous laughs to a bittersweet conclusion. Amber R. Dickinson has given us three great characters who are quickly recognizable as theater denizens and will delight and move audiences. I’m hoping they get the chance soon.

I can easily identify with Connor’s discomfort in groups and Lucia’s struggle with a foreign language. And I think because these characters are so recognizable and presented in a non-judgmental way, this play works its own special magic. It would be fun to see this performed in schools where students are encouraged to move to the beat of their different drums.

What a riot! Two of the most incompetent thieves you’ll ever meet attempt to steal the Hope Diamond. In this two-hander, Lisa Dellagiarino Feriend makes great use of the audience as the unseen school tour group and the Smithsonian docent, Marianne. The laughs are nonstop. Great for all ages as evidenced by the wide range of productions and awards received.

Under any circumstances this would be a moving monologue. But knowing it’s based on the playwright’s relationship with her own mother adds another dimension of shock. For reasons I can’t fathom, the mother chooses to distance herself from a clearly intelligent and talented daughter. At times surprisingly humorous (only because of the subject), this piece packs quite a punch. Kudos to Ms. Wang for having performed this piece herself.

Renter beware! There are plenty of laughs in store as a prospective renter uses a unique negotiating strategy with the landlord. The fast-paced antics lead perfectly to a surprising punchline. Great fun!