Recommended by Jeffrey James Keyes

I love plays where I truly feel like I’m the fly on the wall of an intimate moment. Kershaw captures a private moment and unveils a moment that many a casual relationship eventually leads to. I appreciate the way he tells this story and would love to see it up on its feet.

Love this play, it’s smart, sharp, and evocative of so many timely truths in not just the theatre but everywhere. Powerful work, well done.

I caught this play at The Flea and was so impressed with Valles writing and overall storytelling. While there were moments of celebration and fun I was so moved by some of the darker undertones. The play has stayed with me and I know it will continue to haunt me for a long time. I commend you for writing into this space and creating such a fantastic play.

Gatton’s But Soft really tugged at my heartstrings and took me back. I love the dialogue and way he captures the subtle and tender feeling of youngsters preparing for their school audition with a hint of romantic undertones permeating throughout. This isn’t a play within a play, it’s a play before a play. Wonderful work.

There is something inherently satisfying about reading this monologue, which is rich with relatable lines like "you know what I haven't had in a long time? A Big Mac. How delicious." The delicious plot thickens as D reveals the details of their long, long day. I thoroughly enjoyed this monologue, and it would be so fun to see an actor sink their teeth into this piece. It made me want to gorge myself on fast food dim sum and go for a drive. Thank you for this, Scott. Well done.

I love Steven G. Martin's attention to what's said as well as the space between. I immediately understood the importance of this moment and this time these two have shared together. This is a play that would be a gift for two actors to work on together and capture the intricate nuances of each moment. Martin's dialogue, at surface is subtle and collegial but what lies underneath the surface of this strong work is rich and masterful. Excellent work.

As someone who found themself in similar situations to young Bertram as a kid, I wish I had the vocabulary and confidence to stand up to a bully in this fashion. Sickles' monologue is eloquent and powerful. Bertram not only defends himself with grace, but also teaches his bully (and the audience) a useful tip. Thank you for this powerful (and educational) monologue.

Martin's monologue A Humble Path is equally compelling and riveting. I felt sweat at my temples as my clammy hands turned the pages of his strong reveal of exposition and psychological drama. I'm always impressed with Martin's storytelling and this piece doesn't stray from other strong work I've read by this impressive dramatist.

Sugar illuminates O'Grady's masterful storytelling. In this powerful ten-minute play, a gripping and urgent drama unfolds. I appreciate the way O'Grady set up the story and built to the climax of this piece. It's truly one of the best short plays I've read...and I'd love to see it performed. Thank you for this fine work.

I was really moved by Jaxson's different take on a holiday play. The setup was really fun and well-drawn and the turn at the end of this piece made me gasp and realize how smart Mackling is. This excellent short would be a terrific (and unexpected) addition to an evening of holiday themed one act plays. Well done.