Recommended by Maggie Smith

  • Maggie Smith: Family Visitation (Ten Minute) by Paul Donnelly
    “

    It is astounding how much a person can say in twelve pages. “Family Visitation” shows us the people affected by of one of the darkest eras of queer history. What is truly heartbreaking is the way love is depicted in this play— With Randy’s true love being forced to stay hidden in the hallway, while his lover’s family’s superficial love gets to be put on displace in order to maintain appearances. The final moment of the play, depicting Estelle with the teddy bear, reminds us just how much louder actions speak than words. Beautifully done, Paul.

    It is astounding how much a person can say in twelve pages. “Family Visitation” shows us the people affected by of one of the darkest eras of queer history. What is truly heartbreaking is the way love is depicted in this play— With Randy’s true love being forced to stay hidden in the hallway, while his lover’s family’s superficial love gets to be put on displace in order to maintain appearances. The final moment of the play, depicting Estelle with the teddy bear, reminds us just how much louder actions speak than words. Beautifully done, Paul.

    ”
  • Maggie Smith: Even when the storm comes by Ryan Vaughan
    “

    The juxtaposition between the family-friendly park environment and the subject matter is absolutely haunting. Vaughan has written a story filled with brilliant character arcs for both young and adult actors alike, and has utilized them to depict the simultaneous highs and lows life throws at us. As this play continues, it forces you to realize how many emotions one single location can hold— And what memories will forever be associated with it. Packed with lovable relationships and heartbreaking monologues, “Even when the storm comes” will leave you reflecting on where and who you call home.

    The juxtaposition between the family-friendly park environment and the subject matter is absolutely haunting. Vaughan has written a story filled with brilliant character arcs for both young and adult actors alike, and has utilized them to depict the simultaneous highs and lows life throws at us. As this play continues, it forces you to realize how many emotions one single location can hold— And what memories will forever be associated with it. Packed with lovable relationships and heartbreaking monologues, “Even when the storm comes” will leave you reflecting on where and who you call home.

    ”