Recommended by Morey Norkin

Print journalism in general is a dying breed, but the small town version is practically extinct. Corporate takeovers force a switch to digital media and a reliance on news services, meaning the bake sales, PTA meetings, and birthday parties that once found a cherished spot in family scrapbooks now come and go unnoticed. Eden Lane offers an authentic look at the workings of one such paper as the dedicated staff face their final deadline. A fitting tribute to those whose job is sharing the truth.

You can never have too many reindeer games for Christmas. Or, for that matter, for Elfin Christmas. Robert Weibezahl has gathered the usual hooved suspects for a rollicking good time. I’m smiling just imagining actors in reindeer costumes improvising the Caribou Cracker dance. Let the party begin!

Oh, the lucky teens who get the opportunity to bring this beautiful play to life. And to learn the many lessons it teaches along the way. Lessons about art, playwriting in particular, friendship, honesty, grief. Deb Cole is a master at sharing her wisdom, and she does so perfectly here.

Although the story is set in modern times, while reading WRITE FROM THE HEART, I felt transported to some beautiful bygone era. The exquisite letter writing certainly had a lot to do with it. The formality, which gave way to lighthearted flirtation underpins a romance that will melt even the hardest heart. Lovely work.

Our past certainly shapes us, but does it necessarily define us? And if there is something in our past that we prefer to keep there, the fear of consequences might strain our ability to develop meaningful relationships. Bradley finds it easier to discuss his past with a stranger rather than his girlfriend. As we learn Bradley’s truth, his hesitancy to discuss it is understandable. But we’re still hopeful he’ll find the understanding he deserves. Scott Sickles provides a setting that is familiar and comforting and beautifully written dialogue. What more could you ask for?

Guilt is a powerful emotion, particularly when it’s related to a life or death situation. We learn of the guilt that Jim carries through an unusual conversation at an airport terminal. Mike Byham’s dialogue takes us on a journey of discovery with humor and compassion, leading to an ending that is at once both frightening and hopeful. Guaranteed to stay with audiences long after the lights fade.

Somewhere Jo Anne Worley is screaming, “Is that another chicken joke?!” Yes, Jo Anne. Hundreds of chicken jokes packed into an extra crispy, hilarious ten minutes. John Busser has hatched one of the most Busserian pieces I have ever encountered. And that means I lost count of how many times I guf-FAWKED!

FOCUS is absolutely bonkers, and I mean that in the best way possible. A focus group is gathered to taste test a chip, no not a chip, a cruncher, under the most bizarre circumstances. Grab your favorite snack and put yourself in FOCUS!

It seemed like nothing could be worse than being the year-round target of joyful Christmas carolers. And then Evan Baughfman’s tale takes a sharp, hair raising turn. Wow!

This brought back memories of my own Bar Mitzvah and my parents sending me to a tutor because I was so far behind at Sunday school. Unlike Robbie, I knew I needed help. With Lisa’s guidance, Robbie has the opportunity of not just becoming a man in the eyes of the Jewish community, but he has the opportunity to gain the wisdom that goes along with it. Wonderful roles for two young actors,