Recommended by Brent Alles

A gripping ten minute that presents ethical and moral dilemmas for the characters and the audience to consider. The ideas presented here will definitely stay with you after the conclusion of the reading or viewing. Widow handles dialogue efficiently and makes solid, three-dimensional characters in a short amount of time. It's self sufficient but also something that if expanded would make for a fascinating further study as well.

Funny riffs here on the mad scientist tropes. (Loved all the references.) There was one moment in particular that made me laugh heartily at the overall construction of it. Beyond that, however, there are some nifty twists that will surprise you as you read and/or experience. This would definitely be a great fit in a short horror or scifi themed festival!

As usual, a very interesting scenario created here by Palfi. I loved the original perspective and take on "The First Story." There's a deeper meaning beneath the surface here that I really appreciated. The use of anachronism was both funny and strangely relevant. This would be great to see staged and would make an excellent addition to the right kind of festival that would have it. A recommended read!

An excellent short play, absolutely suitable for radio. One can imagine the sparse use of sound effects to have a chilling effect on the listener. There are also two very well drawn characters here that bring some human empathy to the speculative situation. Looking forward to hearing or seeing this in the future!

Reading this, I definitely had pea-ness envy. Wait, that's terrible. Let me start over. But first, a handful of frozen peas. Oo, and there's a French Fry in the folds of my shirt - hmmm, where was I? Oh yes. "37 Organic Peas." Not since F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Vegetable" have we had such an ode to nature's bounty. The best thing is that Plumridge doesn't limit who can play these peas. Truly a diversity of leguminous opportunity. This would be perfect for a pod-cast. (I'm very sorry.) Read it!

A fantastic creation that Richter has come up with here that totally honors the original work and yet adds surprising depth to a tale that's often been told. But it's never been told this way, and it's a fascinating read that stands well on its own while remaining true to the "Dickensiverse." Richter's use of dialogue is excellent and keeps the play moving along effectively. Great parts for actors to sink their teeth into as well. I truly want to see this produced at some point!

I loved how this ten-minute kept surprising me as it progressed. As usual, Phillip Middleton Williams creates 3D characters that draw you into their situation quickly. Who knew that a "collection attempt" could have such depth to it. Absolutely enjoyable ten minute play.

As usual, Tennant brings history alive in a very engaging and entertaining way. It provides for a good learning experience, to be sure, about a subject of which we should be made aware. But beyond that, you're drawn in by the story of this woman and a desire to hear the outcome from her own perspective. Absolutely enjoyable historical drama here.

Funny premise, to be sure, but there is insight, wisdom, and understanding here in terms of this very important moment in many people's lives. Heyman leaves you with a winning message after some humorous back and forth between the characters (mixed with good points to ponder). Not only would this be an enjoyable piece for listening, but I also think it would do a lot of good for those who listen (in many different ways). Pretty admirable objectives, and in my opinion, Heyman achieves them.

The poetry and lyricism here is just spectacular as Mabey takes the old tale and finds new meaning in it, in terms of the importance of relationships and connections, particularly with women. The characters establish themselves effectively and then everything builds to an appropriate crescendo as two become one. We're left with a very impactful version of this story indeed. Wonderful.