Recommended by John Medlin

Rachel has written a scathing monologue about the apathy of those in power. What starts innocent becomes charged with rage as Lucy dissects the various ways the world is falling apart around her. You can't help but relate to this character who sees so much suffering, only to be met with apathy and, even worse, fake sympathy from those who have the power to make a difference. It's a shame that people around the world are putting the need to change on the shoulders of those who follow us. This is an example of one who crumples under the pressure.

Is this an interrogation of a convicted person, or is Gerald being tried for something much more sinister? "All the Silver Cars or (Virgos Do it Best)" is an excellent monologue of a Virgo performing at their best. Gerald is a delightfully deranged speaker. Their story grows steadily more sinister as they speak to an unknown person. All the while begging for a glass of water. This monologue would be fantastic to perform on its own. It would also be an excellent addition to any actor's rep book.

New Years always come with their fair share of promise and regret. That is what Cole Dzubak writes about in this monologue. The piece starts with such humor and home, but then dwells on the regrets Ryan has. Cole has managed to create a monologue that allows the actor to bring their own interpretation into it. Is Ryan genuinely happy their ex moved on or are they coping? Either way, this piece would be a solid addition to any rep book.

Honestly, mood. I feel like anyone apathetic to sports who has spent time with a sports enthusiast has had an encounter like this at some point in their life. "Basketball Madness" is relatable and funny. If you're looking for something around the season finale of basketball or football, this is a great choice.

I read this play and thought sometimes you're the cow. Sometimes you're the man. "Push Comes to Shove" by Debra A. Cole is a quick but well-written piece. I found it funny, but I'm interested to see how other people would read and stage it. If you're looking for something short, this piece is a great choice!

Christopher Plumridge has assembled an interesting one-woman show through their dialogue with Martha. "I Have No Words" gives a deeply personal look into life in Ukraine in the midst of war. This piece is personal, eye-opening, and necessary. While this is Martha's story, Christopher has flexed their ability as a dramaturg in making it easy to understand and ready for the stage. It's nice to see that the royalties will go to support Martha and her family as well.

Gretchen, Alison, and Max each want a bedtime story from Grandma. What starts as a sweet nighttime ritual becomes something sinister. "Story Time" is a darkly comic masterpiece for short theatre. Sam Heyman has crafted a piece that is tight, surprising, and very funny. This piece would be a fantastic selection for any short play festival. Especially at a college level.

"Out" is a tense exploration of a decaying relationship. Scott's dialogue flows smoothly and captures the heartbreak of the characters wonderfully.

This is a one-person play that requires a conversation afterward. It is haunting, somewhat ambiguous, and interesting. Scott Cantrell packs a lot of storytelling into this short, ten-ish-minute piece. It's a good choice for actors wanting to delve into non-realism.

A military setting with Durang-esque comedy? Sign me up! "Petty Drama Officer" is a short play about spilling some tea. It is absurd in all of the right ways.