Recommended by John Medlin

Horror and comedy have such a fun relationship. Scott walks the line between the two forms brilliantly in "Corporeal Punishment". The jokes are pitch-black but effective. The tension could be cut with a knife at parts. The twists and turns keep you on your toes throughout. I love a script that deals with the occult, and this one was highly enjoyable. Definitely check it out if you need a short play in your upcoming season!

As someone who has lost someone to ALS, the changes that follow the diagnosis are terrifying. You wonder when the last conversation with that loved one is going to be. Darrin Friedman captures that fear and sorrow beautifully in this piece. "The Butterfly Anchor" captures the feeling of passing on with Brian while the rest of the cast prepares to enter into a new chapter of their lives. There are quite a few monologues that could be added to an actor's rep book.

"Emancipation" is a clever one-minute play that subverts expectations. The plight of Man and Woman is very relatable for anyone that's ever dieted before. This solid short play would feel at home in any scratch night.

I don't know why, "sorry, we only have sliced cheese" had me cackling the way it did. "Can I Get Uhhhh" is a brilliant absurdist comedy. Cole keeps the jokes rolling with this one, frequently making me laugh out loud.

This monologue made a few people come to mind. It's a clever exploration of the performative charity the ultra-wealthy love to do to drum up positive press. As an actor, I would love to tackle this satirical zillionaire. The writing is sharp and witty. The dark undertones are topical and are executed flawlessly. A very fine monologue!

It's an amazing feat to be able to craft such an impactful moment in one minute. Steve G. Martin's short play is a heartbreaking scene that would be perfect for any acting exercise or short play festival. I could feel the moment Robin's heart broke. Beautifully done.

This 10-minute show proves sometimes it is okay to play with food. I always enjoy a La Cage Aux Folles reference too.

What a reversal! Debra A. Cole has written a thoroughly entertaining 10-minute play about the struggles of dealing with difficult neighbors. It tackles misogyny, neighborhood relations, and workplace politics with ease. All while being a very funny short.

Theatre of the Oppressed is a fantastic way to approach a lot of what is happening in the world today. "So Gay" by Debra A. Cole is a fine example of how. Having a show like this performed while I was in high school or middle school would have been a huge help! It's timely, well-researched, and gives a way for faculty to engage with stuff that happens to LGBTQIA+ youth every day. I hope this show makes its rounds with high schools around the country. Its message right now is a necessity.

I remember walking through my house late at night. The shadows playing tricks on me. This play puts that experience on stage. The night scenes are tense and atmospheric. The banter between Mom and Dad breaks the tension with its comic tone. "I Survived Being Haunted..." is a great, bite-sized horror suspense fit for any one-act festival.