January 21-22, 2022
January 21-22, 2022
Mother’s Day
Written by Michael Brady
That’s my birth mother? No, no, no. She’s way too young!
Pro Bono
Written by Michael Brady
Sometimes you have to share a table with a stranger. His old jokes sound new. But your crisis is all your own.
If I Go First
Written by Michael Brady
Harry and Lizzy have lived a good life together. But Lizzy is sick and in pain, and wants to exit on her own terms. It’s time to have The Talk.
Drinks With The Boss
Written by Michael Brady
There’s a newbie on the corporate team who’s reluctant to take credit where credit is due. Does she need some oomph from the Queen Bee or a good kick in the behind?
Lunch With Dad
Written by Michael Brady
Facing the imminent death of her father, a young singer turns to her music teacher for comfort. Together, they will experience something very different.
MOTHER’S DAY
PRO BONO
IF I GO FIRST
DRINKS WITH THE BOSS
LUNCH WITH DAD
"Did you hear what she said! Did you hear what he said! OMG! I can’t believe what I’m hearing!” Ever wonder what is going on that table with the oh, so intent looks back and forth? Now you can eavesdrop on some very personal conversations. Some are funny, some are sad. But each is an honest, if unexpected, moment.
Mother’s Day
Written by Michael Brady
Directed by Rebecca Wilson
AD Darius Journigan
With Nisha Singh, Joaquín Madrid Larrañaga, and Laura Hubbard
That’s my birth mother? No, no, no. She’s way too young!
“Superb acting! Bravo! Brava! to all . . . ”
Pro Bono
Written by Michael Brady
Directed by Morry Schorr
AD Rosa Stern Pait
With Roy Stanton, Cathy Chang, and Sam Deans
Sometimes you have to share a table with a stranger. His old jokes sound new. But your crisis is all your own.
“Great production values to make all the pieces flow together so well. ”
If I Go First
Written by Michael Brady
Directed by Morry Schorr
AD Rosa Stern Pait
With Howard Raik, Carolyn Wickwire, and Sam Deans
Harry and Lizzy have lived a good life together. But Lizzy is sick and in pain, and wants to exit on her own terms. It’s time to have The Talk.
“I really enjoyed these plays - great variety and laced with humor as well as emotion. ”
Drinks With The Boss
Written by Michael Brady
Directed by Rebecca Wilson
AD Darius Journigan
With Meghan Lane, Aniko Olah, and Laura Hubbard
There’s a newbie on the corporate team who’s reluctant to take credit where credit is due. Does she need some oomph from the Queen Bee or a good kick in the behind?
“Each play had great suspense and kept me hanging on until the very end. ”
Lunch With Dad
Written by Michael Brady
Directed by Jan Carpman
AD Maeve Chapman
With Calla Fuqua, Bill Bodie, and Sam Deans
Facing the imminent death of her father, a young singer turns to her music teacher for comfort. Together, they will experience something very different.
“We really got caught up in the moments! ”
December 10-11, 2021
December 10-11, 2021
Most Wonderful
Written by Jennifer O’Grady
Two unemployed roommates learn the meaning of Christmas with help from a can of beans and some dental floss.
Oh, Tannenbaum
Written by Mark Harvey Levine
Liebowitz feels a little weird having a Christmas tree. It's even weirder when the tree starts talking.
Last-Minute Shoppers
Written by Mark Harvey Levine
It's hard to come up with an idea for a gift.
Oy Vey Maria
Written by Mark Harvey Levine
It was supposed to be a silent night in the manger. But then Mary's mother shows up...
Uncle Charlie Sings
Written by Mark Harvey Levine
Christmas is nearly ruined when Uncle Charlie sings (like a canary), spilling the beans on the one secret about Santa you never ever tell.
MOST WONDERFUL
OH, TANNENBAUM
LAST-MINUTE SHOPPERS
OY VEY MARIA
UNCLE CHARLIE SINGS
PlayZoomers holiday gift bag for you: five short, funny, and sweet plays that riff on a theme of seasonal celebrations.
Most Wonderful
Written by Jennifer O’Grady
Directed by Lisa Hodsoll
AD Sydney Matuszak
With Jen Rabbitt Ring and Michael Calciano
Two unemployed roommates learn the meaning of Christmas with help from a can of beans and some dental floss.
“Oh, what fun! LOVED each play! Brilliant! I’m filled with joy! ”
Oh, Tannenbaum
Written by Mark Harvey Levine
Directed by Rhonda Goldstein
AD Taiwo Aloba
With Joshua Secunda and Don Converse
Liebowitz feels a little weird having a Christmas tree. It's even weirder when the tree starts talking.
Last Minute Shoppers
Written by Mark Harvey Levine
Directed by Patti Allis Mengers
AD Yoonie Yun
With Norm Thibeault, Mike Cohen, Gary Giurbino, and Jerzy Jung
It's hard to come up with an idea for a gift.
“What delicious and intoxicating confections! ”
Oy Vey Maria
Written by Mark Harvey Levine
Directed by Patti Allis Mengers
AD Yoonie Yun
With Nancy Dydak, Jerzy Jung, Morry Schorr, Norm Thibeault, Mike Cohen and Gary Giurbino
It was supposed to be a silent night in the manger. But then Mary's mother shows up...
Uncle Charlie Sings!
Written by Mark Harvey Levine
Directed by Lisa Hodsoll
AD Sydney Matuszak
With Steve Lebens, Ebie Prideaux, Carol Cadby, Aniko Olah and Sid Ross
Christmas is nearly ruined when Uncle Charlie sings (like a canary), spilling the beans on the one secret about Santa you never ever tell.
“Thanks for making me smile through the whole evening! ”
November 19-20, 2021
November 19-20, 2021
Queen of the Sea
Written by Michael Brady
Three strangers meet on a cruise ship fo “the Voyage of a Lifetime.” Lilly seeks the possibility of an adventure and an escape from a long and punishing Canadian winter. Workaholic Sylvia would rather be tormenting her fellow workers, while Romero, the ship’s dance instructor, has a private mission only he can fulfill. Three different souls must come together and comfort each other in a very dark time. Because nothing in their lives has prepared them for what is to come.
Queen of the Sea
Queen of the Sea
Written by Michael Brady
Directed by Ansley Valentine
Choreographed by DJ Gray
AD Jessica Dreiling
With Jean Childers-Arnold, Amy D’Aulerio, Dan Goldring
Three strangers meet on a cruise ship fo “the Voyage of a Lifetime.” Lilly seeks the possibility of an adventure and an escape from a long and punishing Canadian winter. Workaholic Sylvia would rather be tormenting her fellow workers, while Romero, the ship’s dance instructor, has a private mission only he can fulfill. Three different souls must come together and comfort each other in a very dark time. Because nothing in their lives has prepared them for what is to come.
“Liked the allusion to “An American in Paris” with the dream dance sequence. Gene Kelly & Leslie Caron would approve! ”
“WOW, what a show! Sylvia was engaging and hilarious. Romero’s enunciation and demeanor were just like I would imagine a crew member’s would be. And Lilly brought so much sunshine to this production! ”
“
This excellent production was wonderfully written, acted, with meticulous coordination of detail. Zoom gave it a beautiful intimacy that might be diluted on a stage. ”
“
Poignant & graceful. A wonderfully appropriate meeting of subject (love & death in the time of COVID) and medium. ”
“What a masterful accomplishment of technical challenges. The actors did a great job, they were all very real, and the last scene with the simultaneous phone calls was brilliantly done. The direction was wonderful as was the choreography. ”
“
The actors captured the flirting and sexual tension as well as the themes of loss /grieving. The dance scenes were dreamy and psychedelic - stunning !! Acting was 5- stars and the directing was spot on. Technical aspects were beautifully executed. This was my first experience with PlayZoomers— I can’t wait until the next show.”
October 22-23, 2021
October 22-23, 2021
The Actawr and the Directawr
Written by Art Shulman
The ultra-pompous director of a one-minute play has his first of many planned rehearsals with an inexperienced - but willing - actor.
Curtain Call
Written by Greg Hatfield
The play is a hit, but two of the lead actors don’t feel it’s working and their performances aren’t up to their standard, so they want out.
Talkback
Written by Sam Graber
Having finished reading aloud the first draft of Hamlet, actors deliver feedback to the playwright.
3 Characters Figure It Out
Written by Matthew McLachlan
While trying to work out the play they are in, three characters are forced to act out random, nonsensical things, much to the enjoyment of the fourth character, "Stage Directions." When things get a bit too ridiculous, tensions rise, and the point of the whole thing is questioned.
THE ACTAWR AND THE DIRECTAWR
CURTAIN CALL
TALKBACK
3 CHARACTERS FIGURE IT OUT
Four variations on the theme of backstage drama: dynamics between an ultra-pompous director and a willing actor - a leading lady and man who throw sophisticated tantrums when their performances don’t match their expectations - Shakespearian actors who tell off the Bard after the first reading of "Hamlet" - and three characters desperately trying to make sense of an avant-garde script.
The Actawr and the Directawr
Written by Art Shulman
Directed by Steve Yakutis
AD Kenli Doss
With Kristina Feldesman and Michael Curry
The ultra-pompous director of a one-minute play has his first of many planned rehearsals with an inexperienced - but willing - actor.
“. . . a delightful contrast of pretense and innocence, well-written and well-executed. “Hitchcock, Wild Bill...” has got to be one of the funniest lines of the season! ”
Curtain Call
Written by Greg Hatfield
Directed by Sabrina Carmichael
AD Sydney Matuszak
With Blake Walton, Alice Simon, Lana Ford, and Josh Allen Goldman
The play is a hit, but two of the lead actors don’t feel it’s working and their performances aren’t up to their standard, so they want out.
“Greg Hatfield’s spot-on script takes us back to the days of Alfred Lunt, Lynn Fontanne, and Noel Coward, winningly played by Blake Walton, Alice Simon, and Josh Allen Goldman. Applause to the director et al for a beautiful, enjoyable romp. ( Blake’s eyebrows qualify as their own character!)”
Talkback
Written by Sam Graber
Directed by Stephen Benson
AD Rebecca Wilson
With Shawn Perry, David Fisher, Joaquín Madrid Larrañaga, Jeremiah Benjamin, Akshaya Pattanayak, and Sam Deans
Having finished reading aloud the first draft of Hamlet, actors deliver feedback to the playwright.
“The nerve of these actors talking back to the Bard about Hamlet, that masterpiece with the funny name! Their complaints are hilarious (“Too many words!”), self-serving (“Why can’t my part be bigger?”), and diva-worthy (“My vocal instrument is being strained!”). A wonderful production of Sam Graber’s oh-so-clever play! ”
3 Characters Figure It Out
Written by Matthew McLachlan
Directed by Joshua Secunda
AD Taiwo Aloba
With Cathy Chang, Don Converse, Gary Giurbino, Mona Bapat
While trying to work out the play they are in, three characters are forced to act out random, nonsensical things, much to the enjoyment of the fourth character, "Stage Directions." When things get a bit too ridiculous, tensions rise, and the point of the whole thing is questioned.
“An incredible production of a challenging play - brilliant directing, acting, and tech. I thoroughly enjoyed every minute! ”
September 17-18, 2021
September 17-18, 2021
Greening Zabella
Written and directed by Thomas W. Stephens
A family Zoom call goes sideways when matriarch Zabella announces an unanticipated change in her final arrangements. Delicate and not-so-delicate negotiations ensue, interwoven with foolishness, Stella Artois celebrations, and the cosmos.
Greening Zabella
Greening Zabella
Written and directed by Thomas W. Stephens
AD Rebecca Wilson
With Jean Childers-Arnold, Gary Giurbino, Patti Allis Mengers, Janit Baldwin, Morry Schorr, Christopher DeSantis,
A family Zoom call goes sideways when matriarch Zabella announces an unanticipated change in her final arrangements. Delicate and not-so-delicate negotiations ensue, interwoven with foolishness, Stella Artois celebrations, and the cosmos.
“No question — I am so touched — this was an experience I never would have expected.”
“A very intriguing mix of real material about loss, humor, and affection among the characters for one another. ”
“Each character expressed different conflicts I’ve felt about how to handle end of life- I’ve felt like each of the characters- I also forgot this was a Zoom- it was so realistic and I’ve really been in this sort of discussion with my family. ”
“Great performance, writing, acting, directing, production. One of the most wonderful things about Tom’s writing is how he masters natural dialogue. The members of this family, these characters, are really talking to each other, with various conversations happening simultaneously, as they do in real life. And yet, with Tom’s fluid writing, along with a great production, we follow it all. Applause, applause, applause, applause! ”
July 23-24, 2021
July 23-24, 2021
Go Fish
Written by Phil Ginsburg
Three fish in a Malibu restaurant aquarium ponder their fate.
Bar None
Written by Barry Weinberg
He’s a self-aware, sophisticated talking dog, and, desperate to find that one person who will relate to his inner self and treat him as just another guy, this dog walks into a bar. . .
Microwave and Fridge
Written by Jennifer O’Grady
Two household appliances deal with their respective humans. Teenager Ethan needs to defrost a meal before basketball practice but Mike, an aging microwave oven, refuses to open her door— forever. Meanwhile, Ethan’s neighbor struggles with her new Fridge, which keeps failing her. A play about seeking—and maybe finding— acceptance.
GO FISH
BAR NONE
MICROWAVE AND FRIDGE
Go Fish
Written by Phil Ginsburg
Directed by Ansley Valentine
AD Nicole Pehan
With Jeannine Gaskin, Timothy Grams, Jean Childers-Arnold, Nik Folley
Three fish in a Malibu restaurant aquarium ponder their fate.
“Loved the costumes on “Go Fish”!! Clever and fun hats really kept the feel of each character.”
“Thanks for validating one of the reasons I’m not a big seafood fan. These guys have little personalities, for goodness sake!”
Bar None
Written by Barry Weinberg
Directed by Kat Phillips
AD Taiwo Aloba
With Tristan Odenkirk and Sarah Collins
He’s a self-aware, sophisticated talking dog, and, desperate to find that one person who will relate to his inner self and treat him as just another guy, this dog walks into a bar. . .
“The “Bar None” playwright and actors were terrific - they really helped us understand the dog’s feelings!”
Microwave and Fridge
Written by Jennifer O’Grady
Directed by Joshua Secunda
AD Rebecca Wilson
With Rommel Jones, David P. Kozinski, Maria Eliades, Erin Ring-Howell, Joaquín Madrid Larrañaga, Mona Bapat, Nisha Singh, Sam Deans
Two household appliances deal with their respective humans. Teenager Ethan needs to defrost a meal before basketball practice but Mike, an aging microwave oven, refuses to open her door— forever. Meanwhile, Ethan’s neighbor struggles with her new Fridge, which keeps failing her. A play about seeking—and maybe finding— acceptance.
“What a marvelous production of “Microwave & Fridge” - great script, wonderful directing, inspired acting! ”
June 25-26, 2021
June 25-26, 2021
A Romance in the Air
Written by Arthur Joseph Lundquist
In a balloon, sometime in the second half of the 19th Century, Felicity and Herbert, an heiress and a bicycle repairman, ascend into the skies on a voyage of exploration.
The Marriage Tree
Written by Alison Cummins
Two young girls discuss love and life under the protective branches of a peach tree. A story about sexuality, identity, and family, “The Marriage Tree” wonders what it looks like for societal expectations to manifest in children.
Truth be Told
Written by Pamela Morgan
Two people try to find a connection on an online dating site that guarantees to always tell the truth.
Renewing Vows
Written by Art Shulman
An older man decides to renew his wedding vows even though his wife is no longer there to celebrate with him.
A ROMANCE IN THE AIR
THE MARRIAGE TREE
TRUTH BE TOLD
RENEWING VOWS
A Romance in the Air
Written by Arthur Joseph Lundquist
Directed by Spencer Frankebeger
AD Taiwo Aloba
With Lacey Rae and Shashank Sharma
In a balloon, sometime in the second half of the 19th Century, Felicity and Herbert, an heiress and a bicycle repairman, ascend into the skies on a voyage of exploration.
The Marriage Tree
Written by Alison Cummins
Directed by Kristina Feldesman
AD Jess Dreiling
With Alexandra Floras-Matic and Serena Roan
Two young girls discuss love and life under the protective branches of a peach tree. A story about sexuality, identity, and family, “The Marriage Tree” wonders what it looks like for societal expectations to manifest in children.
Truth be Told
Written by Pamela Morgan
Directed by Drew Maidment
AD Nicole Pehan
With David Raccio, Ashley Campbell, and Jamie Soltis
Two people try to find a connection on an online dating site that guarantees to always tell the truth.
Renewing Vows
Written by Art Shulman
Directed by Max Cerci
AD Rebecca Wilson
With Morry Schorr and Caroline Westheimer
An older man decides to renew his wedding vows even though his wife is no longer there to celebrate with him.
May 21-22, 2021
May 21 - 22, 2021
Chasing The River
Written by Jean Dobie Giebel
"Even when life deals you a losing hand, there may be a chance to turn things around. It all depends on how you play the game.”
After serving a 10-year prison sentence, Kat returns to the scene of the events that changed her life forever. As she searches for a way to make peace with her past, new revelations and unexpected reunions clash with long-held beliefs about her childhood. "Chasing the River" is about survival, second chances, and making a bet on the healing power of love.
Chasing The River
Chasing The River
Written by Jean Dobie Giebel
Directed by Sara Thigpen
AD Elizabeth Ramsay
With Katie Healy, Caroline Orlando, Ollie Corchado, Jean Childers-Arnold, Mark Souza, Heather Lee Rogers
"Even when life deals you a losing hand, there may be a chance to turn things around. It all depends on how you play the game.”
After serving a 10-year prison sentence, Kat returns to the scene of the events that changed her life forever. As she searches for a way to make peace with her past, new revelations and unexpected reunions clash with long-held beliefs about her childhood. "Chasing the River" is about survival, second chances, and making a bet on the healing power of love.
“This show has the very best acting I have seen in the entire year of lockdown. Huge congrats to Heather Lee Rogers and Mark Souza for crush-crush-crushing it. ”
“Great work! Really enjoyed the performance! KUDOS to Sara Thigpen for her fabulous direction!”
April 23-24, 2021
April 23 - 24, 2021
Your Call is Important to Us
Written and Directed by Jan Carpman
Working from home during the pandemic, a woman repeatedly calls tech support at her WiFi company to solve a critical email problem. Thwarted at every turn, she eventually lands on an unexpected solution.
Your Call is Important to Us
Your Call is Important to Us (2021)
Written and Directed by Jan Carpman
AD Sarah Brausch
With Candy Dato, Norm Thibeault, Nic Campos, Jeff Stoodt, Crystal Nuchurch, Veronika Pomyateeva, Cathy Chang, Scott Callenberger. Sound effects by George Hicks.
Working from home during the pandemic, a woman repeatedly calls tech support at her WiFi company to solve a critical email problem. Thwarted at every turn, she eventually lands on an unexpected solution.
““Your Call is Important to Us” was brilliant and hilarious. I truly laughed so hard I cried.
”
““Your Call is Important to Us” had both of us howling—it was funny AND healing!
”
April 23-24, 2021
April 23 - 24, 2021
Me and Mrs. Cheverly
Written by Ernie Joselovitz
Alan's tribute to a mentor, Mrs. Cheverly, a relationship that spans nearly 40 years, from the first meeting to the final phone call.
Me and Mrs. Cheverly
Me and Mrs. Cheverly (reprise)
Written by Ernie Joselovitz
Directed by Mary Ann Nichols Hubbard
AD Kat Phillips
With Ted Gibson, Jean Childers-Arnold, Dana Hubbard, Lisa White
Alan's tribute to a mentor, Mrs. Cheverly, a relationship that spans nearly 40 years, from the first meeting to the final phone call.
“What a gorgeous piece of theatre! I loved “Me and Mrs. Cheverly” – the tender and funny script, the lovely acting, the visuals.”
““Me and Mrs. Cheverly” was touching and beautifully executed.
”
March 19, 2021
March 19, 2021
The Paris Test
Written by Martha King De Silva
In 2018, Will takes his daughter Emma to Paris, the site where he first met Beth, Emma’s mother. As father and daughter visit iconic Paris sites, they navigate their grief and one another uneasily.
In 1998, Will and Beth meet in front of the Mona Lisa. As the pair visit iconic Paris sites, they navigate their love and one another tentatively.
Can Will and Emma find hope in Paris? Is Beth and Will’s love the real thing? Will they pass The Paris Test?
The Paris Test
The Paris Test
Written by Martha King De Silva
Directed by Steve Yakutis
AD Alyssa Rae
With Dan Goldring, Kristina Feldesman, Sarah Brackett
In 2018, Will takes his daughter Emma to Paris, the site where he first met Beth, Emma’s mother. As father and daughter visit iconic Paris sites, they navigate their grief and one another uneasily.
In 1998, Will and Beth meet in front of the Mona Lisa. As the pair visit iconic Paris sites, they navigate their love and one another tentatively.
Can Will and Emma find hope in Paris? Is Beth and Will’s love the real thing? Will they pass The Paris Test?
“Another great night in (homebound) theater! Your presentations just keep getting better and better! Thanks for bringing so many different actors (and I am glad to see the diversity) together. It will be a long time before many of us feel comfortable about being crammed into a theater for live performances again, so your offerings really help lift our spirits!
”
“That was really delightful. Thanks for a fine piece of theatre.”
February 19, 2021
February 19, 2021
Two-Timing Loaf of Bread
Written by Ryan Bultrowicz
Can a loaf of bread betray you? Two women discover the extraordinary lengths they will go to when they find out they are being scammed by a loaf of bread. Be prepared to never look at your morning toast the same way again!
Listening
Written by Jennifer O’Grady
Stuck for the weekend at her preoccupied, divorced dad’s house (and never mind having to deal with Dad’s new girlfriend, Sandra), sixteen-year-old Hailey learns that listening to old-people music can be life-altering.
Lotto & Raffles & Sweepstakes, Oh My!
Written by Zan Hall
Mamie Fleischbottom just won the million-dollar sweepstakes - much to her regret.
I Hope This Email Finds You Well
Written by Aidan Scully
It's only been an hour since Sedna Callaghan last checked her email, but life moves quickly in the digital age. The misadventures of family, friends, potential employers - and one particularly insistent company - jump to life in her inbox.
Two-Timing Loaf of Bread
Listening
Lotto & Raffles & Sweepstakes, Oh My!
I Hope This Email Finds You Well
Two-Timing Loaf of Bread
Written by Ryan Bultrowicz
Directed by Elizabeth Appleby
AD Kristina Feldesman
With Allison Brooks and Alexandra Floras-Matic
Can a loaf of bread betray you? Two women discover the extraordinary lengths they will go to when they find out they are being scammed by a loaf of bread. Be prepared to never look at your morning toast the same way again!
“I want to praise the authors of “Two-Timing Loaf of Bread” and “Listening.” I found the first extremely imaginative, original, and hilarious and the second quite touching.
”
Listening
Written by Jennifer O’Grady
Directed by Sabrina Carmichael
With Sarah Brackett, Rick Larimore, and Erika Quintana
Stuck for the weekend at her preoccupied, divorced dad’s house (and never mind having to deal with Dad’s new girlfriend, Sandra), sixteen-year-old Hailey learns that listening to old-people music can be life-altering.
“My god, Erika Quintana’s monologue made me cry! What an incredible performance!”
“I just wanted to tell you how very much I was moved watching “Listening.” Wonderful play, wonderful performance by Erika Quintana.
”
Lotto & Raffles & Sweepstakes, Oh My!
Written by Zan Hall
Directed by Mary Spence
With Nessa Amherst, Mona Bapat, Cathy Chang, Sam Deans, Christopher DeSantis, Gabriel Portuondo, Joshua Secunda, Howard Raik, and Jamie Soltis
Mamie Fleischbottom just won the million-dollar sweepstakes - much to her regret.
“The Publishing House people were hysterically funny.”
“We loved in “Lotto & Raffles & Sweepstakes, Oh My!” which was very creative and well-directed and really came to life on Zoom.”
I Hope This Email Finds You Well
Written by Aidan Scully
Directed by Jan Carpman
With Scott Callenberger, Michael Cyll, Candy Dato, Ted Gibson, Laura Hubbard, Kimberly Nicole, Jessica Schneiderman, Roy Stanton, Norm Thibeault, and Rasheed Townes
It's only been an hour since Sedna Callaghan last checked her email, but life moves quickly in the digital age. The misadventures of family, friends, potential employers - and one particularly insistent company - jump to life in her inbox.
“Laura Hubbard’s marvelous non-verbal acting proves that a picture is worth a thousand words. Bravo!”
“Wonderful acting all around...Laura Hubbard - impressive without saying a single word!!
”
January 22, 2021
January 22, 2021
When I Leave This Place Behind
Written by Thomas W. Stephens
Primed for a heavenly uplifting, elderly Martine abandons the home she shares with her older sister Rosa and heads for the nearby hill.
Your Favorite
Written by Ken Green
At a major art museum, a guard is asked, “What’s your favorite painting?” - for approximately the 5,347th time. In attempting to answer (or rather, not answer) the visitor’s question, the guard takes the visitor on a short journey into art, standing, annoying people, privacy, and whether the question matters at all. “Your Favorite” is a slightly absurdist comedy that answers the question of whether scrambled eggs or yogurt go better with Les Demoiselles d'Avignon.
In This Time
Written and Directed by Steve Yakutis
And what a time we’ve had! I started writing down my own experiences and the experiences of friends during the pandemic as a series of stories back in May 2020. When I encountered PlayZoomers that summer I realized that this material was best presented as fictional first-person interviews in a Zoom format. My hope is, that despite all the hardships, we emerge from this year with a changed sense of ourselves and our world, with lessons to be carried forward and a determination to have learned something from it all: to remember what we value most in ourselves and those around us. - Steve Yakutis
I'm Herbert
Written by Robert Anderson
After multiple marriages, elderly Herbert and Muriel reminisce about their lives and become confused in a touching and hilarious way about who did what, with what, and to whom.
When I Leave This Place Behind
Your Favorite
In This Time
I’m Herbert
When I Leave This Place Behind
Written by Thomas W. Stephens
Directed by TammyRa’
AD Doriette Jordan
With TammyRa’ and Denise Chapman
Primed for a heavenly uplifting, elderly Martine abandons the home she shares with her older sister Rosa and heads for the nearby hill.
“Beautifully produced, great acting across the board, and even some lovely costuming!”
Your Favorite
Written by Ken Green
Directed by Joshua Secunda
AD Kristina Feldesman
With Nic Campos, Gary Giurbino, Laura Hubbard
At a major art museum, a guard is asked, “What’s your favorite painting?” - for approximately the 5,347th time. In attempting to answer (or rather, not answer) the visitor’s question, the guard takes the visitor on a short journey into art, standing, annoying people, privacy, and whether the question matters at all. “Your Favorite” is a slightly absurdist comedy that answers the question of whether scrambled eggs or yogurt go better with Les Demoiselles d'Avignon.
“You all deserve all the applause I know the audience was sending your way, from their hearts.
”
In This Time
Written and Directed by Steve Yakutis
AD Sabrina Carmichael
With Nessa Amherst, Mona Bapat, Cathy Chang, Michael Curry, George Dougherty, Mary Carroll Dougherty, Dan Goldring, Joaquín Madrid Larrañaga, Webster McDonald, Crystal Watford Nuchurch Marc Verzatt, and Alyson Wood
And what a time we’ve had! I started writing down my own experiences and the experiences of friends during the pandemic as a series of stories back in May 2020. When I encountered PlayZoomers that summer I realized that this material was best presented as fictional first-person interviews in a Zoom format. My hope is, that despite all the hardships, we emerge from this year with a changed sense of ourselves and our world, with lessons to be carried forward and a determination to have learned something from it all: to remember what we value most in ourselves and those around us. ~ Steve Yakutis
“The play and the acting were terrific! I have great admiration for all of you!”
I’m Herbert
Written by Robert Anderson
Directed by Morry Schorr
With Morry Schorr and Catherine Cavender
After multiple marriages, elderly Herbert and Muriel reminisce about their lives and become confused in a touching and hilarious way about who did what, with what, and to whom.
“My compliments to all involved for a delightful improvement on our Pandemic experience.”
December 11, 2020
December 11, 2020
Reunion
Written by Michael Brady
Four friends graduate from high school, young and unformed, but full of promise and contradictions. Over the course of several class reunions, they love, betray, damage, and heal each other, living their lives as best they can. Will they stay “friends to the end,” or will life get in the way?
Reunion
Reunion
Written by Michael Brady
Directed by Steve Yakutis
AD Kristina Feldesman
With Janit Baldwin, Allison Brooks, Sam Deans, Maddison Gilcrease, Dana Hubbard
Four friends graduate from high school, young and unformed, but full of promise and contradictions. Over the course of several class reunions, they love, betray, damage, and heal each other, living their lives as best they can. Will they stay “friends to the end,” or will life get in the way?
““Reunion” was a wonderful production. Fantastic play and such warm and realistic performances. I loved it.”
“My compliments to all involved for creating five, very likable characters. I would have liked to have met them all in real life!”
“What a great job, again! “Reunion” was touching and funny. You’ve done a wonderful thing with PlayZoomers at a really needed time!”
““Reunion” was really an amazing production, so professional, flawless in the transitions, and the actors were wonderful. The concept of friendships over time is so important. I appreciate PlayZoomers for the talent, ingenuity, and entertainment. Keep up the amazing work!”
November 13, 2020
November 13, 2020
Kill Your Darlings
Written by Mary Spence
Sam Strauss, a successful TV writer-turned-playwright, struggles to complete a commissioned project. As he works, he is haunted by personal ghosts of all kinds: literary, imagined, and possibly real. The looming question concerns the murderous event that Sam refuses to see and whether it is real or figurative. To what lengths must an artist travel when pursuing Truth? How far has Sam actually gone to achieve his life's work, and does he know, as Shakespeare put it, "a hawk from a handsaw"?
Kill Your Darlings
Kill Your Darlings
Written by Mary Spence
Directed by Marc Verzatt
AD Kristina Feldesman
With Yvonne Brechbuhler, Jan Carpman, George Dougherty, Mary Carroll Dougherty, Alexandra Floras-Matic, Ted Gibson, Erin Ring-Howell, Sid Ross, Tristan Schaffer Goldman, Jessica Schneiderman, Jamie Soltis, Steve Yakutis
Sam Strauss, a successful TV writer-turned-playwright, struggles to complete a commissioned project. As he works, he is haunted by personal ghosts of all kinds: literary, imagined, and possibly real. The looming question concerns the murderous event that Sam refuses to see and whether it is real or figurative. To what lengths must an artist travel when pursuing Truth? How far has Sam actually gone to achieve his life's work, and does he know, as Shakespeare put it, "a hawk from a handsaw"?
“Thanks for getting me into the Playzoomers world: heaven only knows when I can get to live theater otherwise!”
“I must congratulate all those involved in this successful creative venture to keep theatre alive in this dark time that we all share.”
“I was blown away by the performance tonight. Extremely well done. Kudos to the entire production staff and actors! ”
“Amazing! You are all so talented and this was magnificent!”
October 23, 2020
October 23, 2020
Six Words. Pandemic Life. You. Me.
Adapted and Directed by Jan Carpman
Crowd-sourced by the PlayZoomers community
Emotional reactions to the ups and downs, ins and outs, of life during the 2020 pandemic.
Afar
Written by Matthew Weaver
Valentina and X share their first kiss as a couple over Zoom or a Zoomish-type program, during quarantine.
Stick and Move
Written by Greg Lam
If you’re on a first date, it’s always good to have someone in your corner.
Talk! Talk! Talk!
Written by Martin Murphy
Three talk show episodes bring together an assortment of unlikely participants -- historical, fictional, and contemporary -- who then reconvene in a Zoom roundtable.
Six Words. Pandemic Life. You. Me.
Afar
Stick and Move
Talk! Talk! Talk!
Six Words. Pandemic Life. You. Me.
Adapted and Directed by Jan Carpman
Crowd-sourced by the PlayZoomers community
With Nessa Amherst, Anne Bauman, George Dougherty, William Goldman, Tony Hernandez, April Linscott, Shawn Perry, Veronika Pomyateeva, Vincent Saia
Emotional reactions to the ups and downs, ins and outs, of life during the 2020 pandemic.
““Six Words. Pandemic Life. You. Me.” was thought-provoking, emotional, and an amazing use of the new technologies to bring the work into our homes. It deserves a broader audience. ”
Afar
Written by Matthew Weaver
Directed by Cianne Anthony
With Alexandra Floras-Matic and Dane Gbrayes
Valentina and X share their first kiss as a couple over Zoom or a Zoomish-type program, during quarantine.
“Outstanding theater last night with PlayZoomers. Wow, just wow!”
Stick and Move
Written by Greg Lam
Directed by Vanessa Sawson
With Bill Bodie, Christopher DeSantis, Katy Feldhahn, Johanna Wald
If you’re on a first date, it’s always good to have someone in your corner.
Talk! Talk! Talk!
Written by Martin Murphy
Directed by Morry Schorr
With Catherine Cavender, Amy D’Aulerio, Carlo Fiorletta, Maddison Gilcrease, Doug MacDougall, Howard Raik, Meredith Sullivan, Pete Trabucco
Three talk show episodes bring together an assortment of unlikely participants -- historical, fictional, and contemporary -- who then reconvene in a Zoom roundtable.
“I loved Talk! Talk! Talk! and the cute scene between Pollyanna and Kierkegaard regarding the Glad Game and the book, “Fear and Trembling”! The existential despair at the round table and singing Kumbaya just topped it!”
October 2, 2020
October 2, 2020
The Set Up
Written by Anna Watts
Two, well-meaning, but slightly misguided moms try to fix up their respective grown children.
Sharon’s Play
Written by Harry Bagdasian
Young marrieds, Sharon and Jerry, both in their mid-twenties, see their relationship nearly crumble because of a miscarriage. Then when going through a box of snapshots, they find a way to cope.
Frog and Toad are Self-quarantined Friends
Frog and Toad Tentatively Go Outside after Months in Self-quarantine
Written by Jennie Egerdie, based on the books by Arnold Lobel
A gentle parody of the beloved characters created by author/illustrator Arnold Lobel in his series of award-winning children's books. It imagines how Frog and Toad would respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and the changes it would - and would not - make in their lives.
The Set Up
Sharon’s Play
Frog and Toad are Self-quarantined Friends
Frog and Toad Tentatively Go Outside after Months in Self-quarantine
The Set Up
Written by Anna Watts
Directed by Ben Ubiñas
With Christina Haystead, Michaela Murphy, Lucas Niedzialkowski, Lisa White
Two well-meaning but slightly misguided moms try to fix up their respective grown children.
Sharon’s Play
Written by Harry Bagdasian
Directed by Ilise George
With Jameson Bryant, Catherine Cavender, Bella Grace Harris
Young marrieds, Sharon and Jerry, both in their mid-twenties, see their relationship nearly crumble because of a miscarriage. Then when going through a box of snapshots, they find a way to cope.
Frog and Toad are Self-quarantined Friends
Frog and Toad Tentatively Go Outside after Months in Self-quarantine
Written by Jennie Egerdie, based on the books by Arnold Lobel
Directed by Jan Carpman
With Elizabeth Appleby, Wendy Lazarus, April Linscott, Jeff Stoodt
A gentle parody of the beloved characters created by author/illustrator Arnold Lobel in his series of award-winning children's books. It imagines how Frog and Toad would respond to the COVID-19 pandemic and the changes it would - and would not - make in their lives.
September 11, 2020
September 11, 2020
With a Kiss I Die
Written by Anthony Lane, based on the balcony scene from Romeo & Juliet, by William Shakespeare
Romeo and Juliet woo during the pandemic.
May Tag
Written by Thomas W. Stephens
During a washing-machine repair call, Russian émigrés Rudolph and Natalia discover they are more than mere acquaintances.
Sketching: 14 April 2020
Written by Thomas W. Stephens
To fill time in the early, sheltering days of the pandemic, Tammy convinces Scott to join her in sketching each other.
Grandpa is with Jesse
Written by Thomas W. Stephens
Has Grandpa gone missing? Midgie returns to her estranged husband to learn why the old man seems to have disappeared with the mysterious Jesse.
With a Kiss I Die
May Tag
Sketching: 14 April 2020
Grandpa is with Jesse
With a Kiss I Die
Written by Anthony Lane, based on the balcony scene from Romeo & Juliet, by William Shakespeare
Directed by Jan Carpman
With Nic Campos and Laura Hubbard
Romeo and Juliet woo during the pandemic.
“I was laughing so much as I listened to the COVID-related linguistic twists as delivered by Romeo and Juliet in “With a Kiss I Die”!”
May Tag
Written by Thomas W. Stephens
Directed by Anna Watts
With Christopher DeSantis and Veronika Pomyateeva
During a washing-machine repair call, Russian émigrés Rudolph and Natalia discover they are more than mere acquaintances.
“Everyone did such a phenomenal job. My personal favorites were “With a Kiss I Die” and “May Tag.” Romeo’s creative interplay with his balcony was very entertaining. Rudolph and Natalia’s performance was so natural and heartfelt, I was instantly pulled into their world. ”
Sketching: 14 April 2020
Written by Thomas W. Stephens
Directed by Emilio Maxwell Cerci
With Phillip Cook and Crystal Watford Nuchurch
To fill time in the early, sheltering days of the pandemic, Tammy convinces Scott to join her in sketching each other.
Grandpa is with Jesse
Written by Thomas W. Stephens
Directed by Jean Dobie Giebel
With Alison Lustbader and Greg Shea
Has Grandpa gone missing? Midgie returns to her estranged husband to learn why the old man seems to have disappeared with the mysterious Jesse.
August 28, 2020
August 28 2020
Curveball
Written by Harry Bagdasian
Comedic satire focusing on a topical talk show where the host ambushes and ridicules his guests.
Me and Mrs. Cheverly
Written by Ernie Joselovitz
Alan's tribute to a mentor, Mrs. Cheverly, a relationship that spans nearly 40 years, from the first meeting to the final phone call.
Curveball
Me and Mrs. Cheverly
Curveball
Written by Harry Bagdasian
Directed by Marc Verzatt
With George Dougherty, Susan O’Doherty, Lee Palotta, Jenna Roach
Comedic satire focusing on a topical talk show where the host ambushes and ridicules his guests.
Me and Mrs. Cheverly
Written by Ernie Joselovitz
Directed by Mary Ann Nichols Hubbard
With Ted Gibson, Dana Hubbard Shawn Perry, Jamie Soltis, Mary Spence, Lisa White
Alan's tribute to a mentor, Mrs. Cheverly, a relationship that spans nearly 40 years, from the first meeting to the final phone call.
Curveball
Me and Mrs. Cheverly
August 7, 2020
August 7, 2020
Good Corporate Citizen
Written by Sam Graber
Are corporations people?
Your Call is Important to Us
Written and Directed by Jan Carpman
A woman working from home during the pandemic, repeatedly calls tech support at her WiFi company in order to solve a critical, email problem.
Good Corporate Citizen
Your Call is Important to Us
Good Corporate Citizen
Written by Sam Graber
Directed by Steve Yakutis
With Pat Cambell, Michael Curry, William Goldman, Lillian Moore, Kimberly Nicole, Joshua Secunda, Nisha Singh, Marc Verzatt, Steve Yakutis
Are corporations people?
Your Call is Important to Us
Written and Directed by Jan Carpman
With Elizabeth Appleby, Jonathan Baum, Julian Borris, Nic Campos, Jonathan James, Rebecca Kramski, Wendy Lazarus, April Linscott, Jeff Stoodt, Norm Thibeault
A woman working from home during the pandemic repeatedly calls tech support at her WiFi company in order to solve a critical email problem.
“I was blown away by this performance. Extremely well done. Kudos to the entire production staff and actors! ”
“Amazing! What a clever take by Sam Graber on corporations. ”
Good Corporate Citizen
““Your Call is Important to Us” was amazing and what a wonderful performance. It was funny and sad and so spot-on for what life is often like when we just need a little assistance in those stressful times. We have all been there and you captured the feelings, the frustrations, and the suggestions of how people cope, often by just being human.
”
“I loved that play (“Your Call is Important to Us”). And the acting. And the directing. Witty, ironic - speaking to all of our experiences as being victims of our society. ”
“I thoroughly enjoyed and was inspired and impressed by “Your Call is Important to Us”! What a tour de force. People loved it. ”
Your Call is Important to Us
