Gather by the Ghost Light

In this episode, Jonathan and Devon chat with six-time TONY Award Nominee Chad Beguelin about his new novel "SHOWMANCE" and his life as a Broadway writer. About SHOWMANCE: Noah Adams's career as a playwright is circling the drain, thanks to a scorching review of his first Broadway musical. So when a family emergency sends him back to his Podunk hometown of Plainview, Illinois, he figures he'll hide out for a bit. But to Noah's horror, his agent has secretly arranged for him to stage an amateur version of the career-ruining musical at the local community theater. As if trying to work with a bunch of artless amateurs wasn't enough, Noah runs into Luke, the jerk from his high school years, everywhere he goes. Luke somehow grew up to be beloved by everyone in town…and undeniably gorgeous. As rehearsals begin, Noah is surprised by his cast's insights, the warmth of the town he'd dismissed, and the reality of what happened with Luke all those years ago. Just how much has Noah misjudged? Available at Penguin Books Guest - Chad Beguelin Chad Beguelin is a six-time Tony® nominee. His works include Disney's Aladdin (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award Nomination for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics), The Prom (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award Nomination for Best Book and Outstanding Lyrics) and The Wedding Singer (Tony Award nomination for Best Book and Best Original Score, Drama Desk Award nomination for Outstanding Lyrics). He also wrote the lyrics for the Broadway musical Elf, which broke several box office records at the Al Hirschfeld Theatre. His play Harbor premiered Off-Broadway at Primary Stages. He is the recipient of the Edward Kleban Award for Outstanding Lyric Writing, the Jonathan Larson Performing Arts Foundation Awards, the Gilman & Gonzalez-Falla Musical Theater Award and the ASCAP Foundation Richard Rodgers New Horizons Award. Chad is a graduate of New York University's Tisch School of the Arts Graduate Dramatic Writing Program. He currently lives in Bridgehampton with his husband Tom and their dog, Tucker.  Produced and edited by Jonathan Cook Intro music by JK/47 You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Jonathan and Devon chat with composer Robin Hiley & writer Becky Hope-Palmer about their musical "LIFELINE" currently running off-Broadway. LIFELINE tells the story of Scottish scientist Alexander Fleming's world-changing discovery of penicillin in 1928, charting the rise and fall of antibiotics. Fleming's historic story is interwoven with Jess', a present day doctor whose childhood sweetheart, Aaron, is recovering from cancer treatment, almost 100 years after antibiotics were discovered. But just as Aaron is desperate to resume normality and rekindle the romance, his life hangs in the balance, as he waits to see if Fleming's miracle cure will still work well enough to save him. The musical is a two-time Edinburgh Festival Fringe sell-out (2018 and 2022). It has toured to London, Glasgow and the east coast of the USA (2022). It has also been showcased at the UK Houses of Parliament and in Barbados for Prime Minister Mia Mottley. Previously entitled The Mould that Changed the World, the show underwent significant re-development in 2023 to incorporate numerous modern day patient stories that the producers had collected from around the world. More info available at LIFELINE The Musical (lifelinemusical.com) Guests - Robin Hiley & Becky Hope-Palmer Robin Hiley was a founding partner of Charades Theatre Company upon the company's inception in 2010. In 2017 he took the company forward as Artistic Director & CEO, overseeing its transition to a Scottish Incorporated Charitable Organisation and establishing partnerships and collaborations with major national and international organisations. As a composer, and lyricist Robin is passionate about writing and creating musical theatre that tackles pertinent social issues and also gives opportunities for the community to get involved in performing. Developing LIFELINE has been a signifcant focus for Robin over the past 6 years, immensely enjoying collaborating with writing partners Becky Hope-Palmer (book writer), his long-time friend and songwriting partner James Ross, as well as the rest of the creative team. Robin holds an undergraduate degree in music from Newcastle University and a MSc in enthnomusicology from the University of Edinburgh. Becky Hope-Palmer is a Scottish writer and theatre director from Edinburgh. She trained at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and was a finalist for the prestigious JMK Directing Award in 2019 and 2021. She is an associate artist for She Productions in East Yorkshire and worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company from 2017-2019. Recent credits include work for the Lyceum Theatre and Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh, Perth Theatre, Dundee Rep and A Play, a Pie and a Pint in Glasgow. Her directing and facilitation work spans musical theatre, Shakespeare, classic and new writing in various forms and capacities. As a writer, Becky's first play with music, Seven Against Edinburgh, was produced by the Lyceum Theatre in 2022. She is delighted to be making her Off-Broadway debut with Lifeline as a book writer in collaboration with Robin, James and the wonderful team. Produced and edited by Jonathan Cook LIFELINE music tracks were used in this episode with permission from the creators. Intro music by JK/47 You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"PARK AND PLAY" by Kara Emily Krantz. Archibald and Jessie frequent the park every Thursday afternoon, but today holds a special, slightly disturbing and definitely disrupting surprise. Written by Kara Emily Krantz Directed by Devon McSherry Performed by Avery Lewis as "Jessie", Brad King as "Archibald", and Korilyn Hendricks as "Lucy". Intro/Outro music by JK/47 Cover design by Jonathan Cook Produced and edited and sound design by Jonathan Cook About the writer: Kara Emily Krantz is a playwright/poet and director from Sturbridge/Worcester, MA. She self-produced her first play, ALL BARK, NO BITE, in 2016, which has gone on to be published and produced around the country. She earned an MFA from NHIA (Dir. Buzz McLaughlin) and penned six full-lengths, including YOU, ME, & ENNUI (W Festival 2018), a screenplay, GRACE NOTE (Storypros International Winner), and her first original pilot, TRACE MEMORY (w/co-writer Amanda Kay Burdine). Over the summer, her short play, “Recess,” won the People's Choice at the Hollywood Brisk Festival, and more recently she was offered a full-time faculty and directing position at Worcester Academy. She is drawn to the places of our deepest hope and suffering, and inspired to infuse them with meaning, whimsy, and joy. She believes we are all telling the story of our lives and have the wonderful opportunity each moment to choose something better. You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

THE ANGEL by Robert J. LeBlanc. Jack has a terrible secret. He's stuck with no way out until a chance meeting with a stranger in a deserted subway station gives him everything that he asked for. Written by Robert J. LeBlanc Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Antonio Scales as "Jack" & Krys Bailey as "Man". Intro/Outro music by JK/47 Cover art by photographer Andew Lynch About the writer: Robert J. LeBlanc is an award-winning playwright, actor, voice actor, and artist, as well as the producer, head writer, host, improviser, and designer of the comedy ensemble, Balderdash Academy, and owner and lead writer of the interactive mystery-comedy company Sleuths Mystery Entertainment. He writes in several genres with a focus on comedy and the use of comedy in drama. He is the guest writer and performer of Undertow: Simpson Falls episode “Firsts” and was a series developer and writer on Realm's hit horror series Undertow: Blood Forest and Undertow: Pulse. His work can be found on stage, screen, and in various podcasts including Balderdash Academy's On the Air. You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SLASHER'S DELIGHT: A comedy horror audio play that gives the behind the scenes look at how "final girls" in slasher scenarios actually get selected to become final girls. Written by Christopher Soucy Directed by Devon McSherry Performed by Audrey Robertson as "Marcia", Elizabeth Rayca-Haas as "Becky", and Jonathan Cook as "The Slasher". Intro/Outro music by JK/47 Additional music by Naama Zafran Cover art by Anna Lascaux About the writer: Chris Soucy is a theatre professional, filmmaker, puppeteer, and writer living in Savannah, GA. He is a combat veteran and co-host of The Most Haunted City on Earth Podcast You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"THE EVENT: A MUSICAL JOURNEY" - An ecological sci-fi song cycle. A rogue rocket launch sets off a chain reaction that traps humanity on Earth. The fallout is explored through eight musical vignettes, bound loosely by the musings of a mysterious narrator.  Music composed by Michael R. Ray. Book & lyrics by Dani Ray. Performed by Vaughan Duncan, Krys Bailey, Jamie McAteer, Audrey Robertson, Adam Kronowski, Dani Ray, Ashley Rivera, Anthony Cheang, Eliza Williams, Shelby Vermilyea, Devin Rivas Martin, Maggie Tharp, Isabella Johnson, Adey Gunnin, Nathan Chamberlain, Chad Bloch, Carrie McAteer, Aiden Simmons, Brandon Paugh, Maisie Bailey, Jessica Bailey, Nicholas Horner. Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the composer: Michael R. Ray was a choral director and music director for more than 40 high school and middle school shows. He is an experienced music educator at the middle, high school and college levels. He received his Bachelor's of Music from Ohio University and his Master's of Music in Music Composition from UT. There are even more random musical (mis)adventures to be found in his YouTube portfolio! He continues to play keys, pull music out of thin air for the occasional madcap improv show, and sometimes feel seriously compelled to make zany videos. About the writer: Dani Ray is a freelance writer and editor, translator, wordsmith, occasional essayist and full-time logophile. She's interpreted in D.C., edited Spanish-language TV in Budapest, taught High School Spanish in Augusta, GA and delved deeply into the realm of Central American modern art. "THE EVENT: A MUSICAL JOURNEY" short film can be found at here! Short film credits - Original Music by MICHAEL R. RAY; Book & Lyrics by DANI RAY; Directed by JAMIE MCATEER & DANI RAY; Audio and Mastering Engineer CHAD BLOCH; Video Design MICHAEL RAY; Lead Animator VAUGHAN DUNCAN; Additional Animators MICHAEL R. RAY; TRENT DENNISON; GARRET CHUCCHI You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A GOOD FIT: Two women visit a coffee shop. One is there for a job interview. The other for a blind date. Unfortunately, they accidentally sit at the wrong tables. Romantic comedy. Written by Jaclyn Stiller Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Marian Thibodeau as "Tessa", Amy Thorne as "Shannon", Sol Baird as "Jon", & Andre Williams as "John". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Jaclyn Stiller is an actor, director, and playwright based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Her plays have been performed in festivals including Gather by the Ghost Light's Off-Broad Street Play Festival, Lakeshore Players 10-Minute Play Festival, and the Minnesota Shorts Festival. In addition to writing, she has performed throughout the Midwest for several years. When not working on her next theatrical project, she works professionally as a medical device engineer. You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3x3 - A SHORT PLAY IN THREE SHORTER ACTS: A married couple face struggles as they try to have a baby, but hope keeps them moving forward ... accordingly. Written by Eric Odom Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Devon McSherry as "Stephanie" and TJ McSherry as "Marcus" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Eric Odom is a stage and voice actor from Augusta, GA. Eric can be heard in several audio plays on the Gather by the Ghost Light podcast. Notable stage roles include Charles Condomine in “The Blithe Spirit”, Albert Chang in “Rules of Seconds”, and Mr. Chu in “Akeelah and the Bee.” You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

GROUND CONTROL TO BABY TOM: Two female astronauts, charged with the important mission of carrying the first pregnancy to full term in space, find themselves entangled in patriarchal nonsense, even 400 million miles away on a spaceship orbiting Jupiter's moon Io. Written by Emily McClain Directed by Devon McSherry Performed by Karla Daly as "Celeste" and Amy Pickrel as "Natasha". Cover art by: David Curtis Studio (david-curtis.com) Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Emily McClain is a playwright and theatre educator based in Atlanta, Georgia. Her plays have been produced across the country and worldwide. She's published through New Stage Press and more of her work can be found at New Play Exchange. You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

POSTPARTUM: The Mother had a baby a month ago. Her Husband knows something is wrong. And the baby monitor keeps making these weird noises... Written by Jillian Blevins Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Marian Thibodeau as "Mother" and Matt Hoffman as "Husband". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Jillian Blevins is a playwright and theatre artist whose short plays have been performed in Chicago, Seattle, San Francisco, New Haven CT, Providence RI, Portland ME, and New York City. In 2020/21, she conceived and produced 'Digital Dionysia', a six-week online new works festival which featured her plays 'Izzy at Zoom Therapy' and 'Be The Bacchae' along with 24 other new plays from around the globe. In the summer of 2023, her one-act ‘The Bed Trick' was a participating play in Valdez Alaska's Last Frontier Theatre Conference, and her 10-minute Jewish sci-fi comedy ‘Space Laser, in Space!' was a finalist at the Samuel French Off Off Broadway New Play Festival. Her queer historical dramedy, 'Romeo & Her Sister' will premiere in June 2024 at the New Hampshire Theatre Project, closing their season and in celebration of Pride Month. Proud member of the Dramatists Guild. You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

IT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR REFRIGERATOR: Deutero-Fung, a mold spore with big ideas, attempts to rally his fellow mold spores into blooming immediately and take over the apartment-verse, but Hyphae-Fung, a mold spore with even bigger ideas, warns the community that blooming early will be a mistake. Look out! Cuz it's Happening in your Refrigerator! Written by Greg Kotis Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Sol Baird as "Deutero-Fung"; Brad King as "Hyphae-Fung"; and the cast of Urinetown the Musical at Le Chat Noir Theatre as the mold spore community. Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: GREG KOTIS is a two time Tony™ Award winning author of many plays and musicals including Urinetown (Book/Lyrics), The End of All Flesh, I Am Nobody, The Truth About Santa, The Sting (Lyrics), Lunchtime, Give the People What They Want, Michael von Siebenburg Melts Through the Floorboards, Yeast Nation (Book/Lyrics), Pig Farm, Eat the Taste, and Jobey and Katherine. His work has been produced and developed in theaters across the country and around the world, including Actors Theatre of Louisville, American Conservatory Theater, American Theater Company, The Apollo (West End), The Brick, the Eugene O'Neill National Theater Conference, The Geva Center, Goodspeed, Musicals, Henry Miller's Theatre (Broadway), Manhattan Theatre Club, New York Stage and Film, New Line Theatre, The Old Globe, Perseverance Theatre, Roundabout Theatre Company, Soho Rep, South Coast Rep, The Saint James (Off West End), The Tank, and Village Theatre, among others. Future projects include ZM, an original musical about teenaged fast-food workers trying to survive a zombie plague. Greg co-founded Theater of The Apes with his wife Ayun Halliday (www.theater-of-the-apes.com), and is a member of the Neo-Futurists, the Cardiff Giant Theater Company, ASCAP, and the Dramatists Guild. He grew up in Wellfleet, Massachusetts, lives in New York City, and is the proud father of India and Milo. You can watch the full video of this episode at https://www.youtube.com/@GatherbytheGhostLight Gather by the Ghost Light merch is available at www.ghostlightpubs.com (Ghost Light Publications) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! For more info or if you wish to contact us, please visit www.gatherbytheghostlight.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

THAT NIGHT "BUTCHER" PETE GOT KNOCKED OUT BY JESSIE "THE CANNON" TESORI: World class heavyweight champion fighter, “Butcher” Pete Wilcox, is at the peak of his career – a living legend with a winning streak to brag about. He never expected, however, that his undefeated record would end in an exhibition match with Jessie “The Cannon” Tesori – a lightweight contender from the women's fighting division. Written and directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Ian Russell as "Butcher Pete", Bonnie Marie Williams as "Jessie 'The Cannon' Tesori", Robb Smith as "Mikey B.", & Valentin Angel Fernandez and Jonathan Cook as the Ring Annoucers. Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Jonathan Cook is heavily involved in the fine arts as an actor, writer, and filmmaker based in South Carolina. Many of his short plays have been produced in theatres around the World and and his full length play INSURGENTES was a semi-finalist in the 2020 Screencraft Stage Play Contest and the SE Texas Festival of New Plays. He is a five-time recipient of the Porter Fleming Literary Award in the playwriting category and some of his works have been published in anthologies by Smith & Kraus, Black Bed Sheet Books, Ghost Light Publications, and Ardneh. Aside from playwriting, he has also written and directed several short films that have been presented in regional film festivals as well as distributed internationally on ShortsTV. He is also the host and producer of the radio theater podcast GATHER BY THE GHOST LIGHT. Launched in 2020, GATHER BY THE GHOST LIGHT is a collection of stage plays adapted to an audio only format performed by voice actors and edited with appropriate sound effects and music. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Ghost Light Publications If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

UNKNOWN NUMBER: As a snowstorm rages outside, a woman receives phone calls from an entity that attempts to lure her outside. Written by Greg Mandryk Directed by Chris Plumridge in association with Ruby Sky Productions Performed by Jacquie Floyd as "Samantha", Barbara Guinan as "Mom", Morey Norkin as "Dad", Scott Sickles as "Dispatcher", Dana Hall as "Operator", & Chris Plumridge as "Joe". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Greg Mandryk is a playwright living in Cleveland, Ohio. His work has been produced throughout the United States. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Ghost Light Publications If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY (aka THE BREAD PLAY): After getting the unlimited bread deal at an Italian restaurant, Arlo and Val are both stuffed and ready for the check. But their server doesn't bring them their check. He brings them more bread. He keeps ... bringing them more bread. He won't stop. He won't ever stop. The bread is unlimited. And there is no escape. A romantic horror comedy about the hard truth that nothing lasts forever, except maybe bread. Written by Daniel Prillaman Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Roshelle Simpson as "Val", John D. Nelson as "Arlo", Valentin Angel Fernandez as "Server", and Jacquie Floyd and Jonathan Cook as the "Advertisement Announcers" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Daniel (he/him) is a neurodivergent ginger Virginian currently based out of Northern Ohio (with his creative partner and wife, Allisyn). He has a special fondness for absurdism, folklore, and horror, but ultimately loves plays about honest people (or talking animals) in situations he hasn't seen before. When not gleefully giving his "soul" to artistic endeavors and projects, he legitimately enjoys long walks on the beach, a video game with a glass of wine, and biscuits. His plays include "A Pirate Carol," "The Ashen Crown," and "You See Them in the Corners of Your Eyes," which have been produced in camp workshops and schools across the United States. His cosmic horror, "In the Slush," was a Finalist for the 2023 Princess Grace Award. Daniel is an alumnus of the University of Virginia and a member of the Dramatists Guild. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to info@gatherbytheghostlight.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

COMMUNAL TABLE: Have you ever had to share a table in a café with the wrong people? On one summer afternoon in June, the day of the summer solstice, three characters end up at the same café table. Minna enjoys eavesdropping, but this time is different — this guy is getting so many things wrong, she may just need to interrupt. Gary loves meeting new people, but it looks like his latest flirtation is getting sabotaged. Allie has come here for some peace but she's unlikely to find any here. Written by Jenny Lyn Bader Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Elizabeth D. Moore as "Allie", Shelby Lauren Smith as "Minna", & Mickey Lay as "Gary". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Jenny Lyn Bader is a playwright living in New York City. Her plays include Mrs. Stern Wanders the Prussian State Library (Luna Stage) ("powerful and timely!"—Voice of America), Equally Divine (Theatre at the 14th St. Y), In Flight (Turn to Flesh Productions), and None of the Above (New Georges). One-acts include Worldness (Humana Festival of New American Plays), Miss America (NY Int'l Fringe Festival/”Best of Fringe” selection), Anniversary Season (Mona Bismarck Center, Paris), and My First Time (Voting Writes). A Harvard graduate, she has received the “Best Documentary One-Woman Show” Award (United Solo Fest); Athena Playwriting Fellowship; and the O'Neill Center's Edith Oliver Award for a playwright who has, in the spirit of the late New Yorker critic, “a caustic wit that deflates the ego but does not unduly damage the human spirit.” For This Is Not a Theatre Company, she wrote Tree Confessions (w/ Kathleen Chalfant), which has streamed on five continents; International Local: 7 (Subway Plays app); co-authored Café Play (Cornelia St. Café) and Play in Your Bathtub 2.0, and wrote Guru of Touch (Edinburgh Festival Fringe). Her work has been published by Dramatists Play Service, Smith + Kraus, Applause, Vintage, W.W. Norton, The Lincoln Center Theater Review, Plays International + Europe, and The New York Times, where she served as a frequent contributor to the "Week in Review.” She has written commissioned scripts for Laura Ziskin Productions/WB Network, NBC Studios/NBC, and HBO, where she developed a pilot with Billy Crystal. A Harvard graduate, she has been a frequent contributor to the NY Times "Week in Review" and a Lark playwriting fellow, nominated by Wendy Wasserstein. She belongs to the Dramatists Guild, the Authors Guild, the League of Professional Theatre Women, and Honor Roll. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to info@gatherbytheghostlight.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

IMMERSION THERAPY: The best husband in the world gives his wife the ultimate birthday present. Written by David MacGregor Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Devon McSherry as "Melissa", Jonathan Cook as "Doug", and Tommy Cooper as "Droppo the Clown" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: David's plays have been performed from California to New York to London and Hobart, Tasmania. He is a resident artist at The Purple Rose Theatre (Chelsea, MI), which was founded in 1991 by actor and playwright Jeff Daniels. He has had nine plays produced there, and a revival of his 2008 dark comedy, "Vino Veritas," appeared in 2017 as The Purple Rose Theatre's 100th production. His trilogy of Sherlock Holmes plays, "Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Elusive Ear" (2018), "Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Fallen Soufflé" (2019), and "Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Ghost Machine" (2022) all premiered at the Purple Rose, and are available for licensing through Theatrical Works Worldwide (TRW). His work has been published by Dramatic Publishing, Playscripts, Smith & Kraus, Applause, Heuer Publishing, and TRW. The film based on "Vino Veritas," which stars Carrie Preston (of "True Blood" and Emmy-winner for "The Good Wife"), won numerous festival accolades and is now available on various on-line platforms, as well as DVD and Blu-ray. His Icelandic romance "In the Land of Fire and Ice" was a 2016 Athena List winner, and is now in pre-production, with Emmy-winner and Oscar-nominee Shohreh Aghdashloo attached. He teaches writing at Wayne State University in Detroit and is inordinately fond of cheese and terriers. His newest full-length play, the dark comedy "The Antichrist Cometh," will premiere at The Purple Rose Theatre in March 2024. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to info@gatherbytheghostlight.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light

SANTA DOESN'T LIVE HERE ANYMORE: Mom and Dad have never gotten around to telling Jeffrey that there's no Santa. He's 30, and he still believes. This Christmas the truth comes out about Santa, as well as a few other family secrets. Written by Patrick Gabridge Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Marian Thibodeau as "Mom", Krys Bailey as "Dad", and Michael Silvio Fortino as "Jeffrey". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 About the writer: Patrick Gabridge has been a Playwriting Fellow with the Huntington Theatre Company and with New Rep and have received fellowships from the Boston Foundation and the Massachusetts Cultural Council. His short plays are published by Playscripts, Brooklyn Publishers, Heuer, Smith & Kraus, Stage Rights, and YouthPlays, and have received more than 1,000 productions from theatres and schools around the world. He helped start Boston's Rhombus Playwrights writers' group, the Chameleon Stage theatre company in Denver, the Bare Bones Theatre company in New York, the publication Market InSight… for Playwrights, the on-line Playwrights' Submission Binge, and the New England New Play Alliance. He's currently the Eastern New England Regional Rep for the Dramatists Guild, a member of StageSource, and a past board member of the Theatre Community Benevolent Fund. He's the producing artistic director of Plays in Place, a company focused on creating new site-specific plays in partnership with cultural institutions and historic sites. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to licensing@gatherbytheghostlight.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light  

SANTA THE CLAUSE: Santa Claus and his elf Beedle visit the holiday office party of Mr. Hargraves, the rich CEO of Awesome Toys, to make him an offer he can't refuse. (*contains Adult language) Written by Ron Burch Ron Burch is a playwright, screenwriter, and novelist. From 2015-2018, he was an Executive Producer/Showrunner on Dinotrux, a DreamWorks Animation TV show for Netflix. His movies include Ferdinand, Head Over Heels, Yours, Mine, and Ours, and Meeting Matt Damon (short). He won the 2018 Humanitas Award for Ferdinand. He was also nominated for a Prime Time Emmy Award during his time as a staff writer on the TV sitcom The Closer. Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by Robb Smith as "Santa Claus", Everette Street as "Mr. Hargraves", and Kayla Gardner as "Beedle the Elf". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Jonathan Cook - Writer / Director (jonathanrcook.com)  

This episode was recorded on stage in front of a Live audience on October 21st at Le Chat Noir Theatre in Augusta, GA. KINGDUMB: This episode is ACT 2 of the full-length play KINGDUMB. KINGDUMB is a fun story full of absurdist humor and illogical behavior. There's a new King in the land that has initiated a mysterious new tax on the citizens. Outraged, the region's finest Clock fixer, aka “Time Repair Specialist”, recruits some of the most unlikely rebels to help him develop a plan to overthrow the King. Their plotting takes them on a comedic journey through perilous mountain tops all the way to the palace itself where they confront this vile King face to face. Medieval comedy. Written and directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Julian Diaz (Corbin Moss), Marian Thibodau (Cayly Moss), Luke Romagnoli (Oswaldo Moss), Devon McSherry (Henry Hackus), Arelis Rivera (Estelle Avery), Adam Cowart (D. Duncan), Robb Smith (Deke Harvey), Michael Silvio Fortino (King Amado), Krys Bailey (Leon), Brandon Dawson (Richard Taxman), Chelsea Glass (Guard Herman), Jonathan Cook (Guard Bellywax), Eric Odom (Jeremy the Sage), and Karla Fischbach (Lenny the Dragon Slayer). Host and Narrator: Jonathan Cook Foley FX: TJ McSherry Live Audio Engineer: Nick Laws Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Jonathan Cook - Writer / Director (jonathanrcook.com)

This episode was recorded on stage in front of a sold-out Live audience on October 21st at Le Chat Noir Theatre in Augusta, GA. KINGDUMB: This episode is ACT 1 of the full-length play KINGDUMB. KINGDUMB is a fun story full of absurdist humor and illogical behavior. There's a new King in the land that has initiated a mysterious new tax on the citizens. Outraged, the region's finest Clock fixer, aka “Time Repair Specialist”, recruits some of the most unlikely rebels to help him develop a plan to overthrow the King. Their plotting takes them on a comedic journey through perilous mountain tops all the way to the palace itself where they confront this vile King face to face. Medieval fantasy comedy. Written and directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Julian Diaz (Corbin Moss), Marian Thibodau (Cayly Moss), Luke Romagnoli (Oswaldo Moss), Devon McSherry (Henry Hackus), Arelis Rivera (Estelle Avery), Adam Cowart (D. Duncan), Robb Smith (Deke Harvey), Michael Silvio Fortino (King Amado), Krys Bailey (Leon), Brandon Dawson (Richard Taxman), Chelsea Glass (Guard Herman), Jonathan Cook (Guard Bellywax), Eric Odom (Jeremy the Sage), and Karla Fischbach (Lenny the Dragon Slayer). Host and Narrator: Jonathan Cook Foley FX: TJ McSherry Live Audio Engineer: Nick Laws Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Jonathan Cook - Writer / Director (jonathanrcook.com)

SECONDHAND SOUL: Em and Vi are a couple in love who just moved into a new house. When Em attempts to use Vi's Ouija board to come out to her dead mother, she finds herself bargaining to save her soul from what she accidentally summons instead. Written by Ava Love Hanna Ava Love Hanna is a professional writer, published playwright, and award-winning speaker and storyteller. She is continually amazed by how often she is mistaken for a real grown-up. She is also the artistic Director and podcast co-host at Stories Found: https://storiesfound.com. Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Chelsea Glass as "Em", Amy Thorne as "Vi", and Evan Cook as "Damon" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Jonathan Cook - Writer / Director (jonathanrcook.com)

AIN'T THE BIGGEST CITY: When an inmate dies at the county jail under suspicious circumstances, the EMT who oversaw the affair is brought in for questioning. She might have a secret or two, but as connections arise more and more secrets arise to the surface. Written by Straton Rushing Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Arelis Rivera as "Lane Hernandez" and Krys Bailey as "Office McAllen" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light Playwright - Straton Rushing (stratontheplaywright.com) Straton Rushing | New Play Exchange Jonathan Cook - Writer / Director (jonathanrcook.com)   Sponsored by Le Chat Noir | An Off-Broad Street Theatre (lcnaugusta.com) The Augusta Players - Award Winning Community Theater in Augusta, GA Taking Over the World One T-Shirt at a Time! - teeVillain Next Stage Press New Play Exchange | New Play Exchange Chewing The Fat (podpage.com) Musical Theatre Workshops (onwiththeshow.biz) All Equal Parts McSherry Studio Jeffery R. Thomas (The Shadow)

THE DEMON LADY: A couple of friends decide to escape for a weekend and go camping but a sudden storm in the middle of the night destroys their tent and now they are on the run looking for shelter. But what they find instead may just be a little more dangerous than the rain. Written by John Patrick Bray Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Audrey Robertson as "Veronica", Eric Odom as "Jeremy", and Christy Roosma as "Dash". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Home | Gather by the Ghost Light (bigcartel.com) If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Gather by the Ghost Light is increasing public knowledge of emerging writers and actors (buymeacoffee.com) If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! Gather by the Ghost Light HOME | John Patrick Bray | Playwright John Patrick Bray | New Play Exchange Jonathan Cook - Writer / Director (jonathanrcook.com)   Sponsored by Le Chat Noir | An Off-Broad Street Theatre (lcnaugusta.com) The Augusta Players - Award Winning Community Theater in Augusta, GA Taking Over the World One T-Shirt at a Time! - teeVillain Next Stage Press New Play Exchange | New Play Exchange Chewing The Fat (podpage.com) Musical Theatre Workshops (onwiththeshow.biz) All Equal Parts McSherry Studio Jeffery R. Thomas (The Shadow)

TOOTH OR DARE: Don't piss off the tooth fairy. Just don't do it. Written by Emily McClain Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Andrew Jones as "Andrew", Jamie Johnson Turner as "Lydia", and Kayla Gardner as "The Tooth Fairy" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available ONLINE HERE! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app!

WHEEL OF FORTUNE REVERSED: Death has come for Michael but Michael has a bucket list that only the Grim Reaper can fulfill. Written by Scott C. Sickles Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Robert J. Leblanc as "Michael" & Dana Hall as "Death" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available ONLINE HERE! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app!

A TRAGEDY OF OWLS: After a successful anti-Nazi attack, two Dutch co-conspirators, Lau Mazirel and Willem Arondeus, meet in prison - one free and one facing death. Both have an urgent but opposing plea for the other. Written by John Mabey Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Jonathan Cook as "Willem" and Amy Patton as "Lau" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available ONLINE HERE! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

PLAYING WITH DOLLS: Two men exchange dolls in an alleyway, a simple trade that turns out to not be so simple. Written by John Mabey Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Ryan Abel as "Carl" and Sean Moton as "Gregory" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

HUGO SAVES CHRISTMAS IN MAY (Part 2): Act 2 begins thirty years earlier when Maya's mom and Hugo's mom meet for the first time. Written by Steven Hayet Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Adam Cowart as "Hugo", Marian Thibodeau as "Maya", Amy Patton as "Catherine", Pepper Wren as "Rachel", and Luke Romagnoli as "Young Hugo". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Santa Cruz Actor's Theatre play submissions! Submit now! - Play Contest & Submissions | Santa Cruz County Actors' Theatre | Santa Cruz (santacruzactorstheatre.org) Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

HUGO SAVES CHRISTMAS IN MAY (Part 1): A year-round Christmas store is going out of business and Hugo McGee, a longtime loyal customer, refuses to accept the news. Written by Steven Hayet Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Adam Cowart as "Hugo", Marian Thibodeau as "Maya", Amy Patton as "Catherine", Pepper Wren as "Rachel", and Luke Romagnoli as "Young Hugo". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Santa Cruz Actor's Theatre play submissions! Submit now! - Play Contest & Submissions | Santa Cruz County Actors' Theatre | Santa Cruz (santacruzactorstheatre.org) Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

A MONOGAMY OF SWANS: After breaking up with her fiancé Jimmie, Ellie has gone to Boston's Public Garden to kill the swans. Violet, her ex, arrives with a better alternative. Written by John Minigan Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Devon McSherry as "Ellie" & Shelby Lauren Smith as "Violet" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

LENORA: A man visits a therapist regarding his daughter's strange dreams that have started to manifest into reality. Written & Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Kate Dailey as "Doctor Hadley", Matt Hoffman as "Vincent", & Mia Price as "Lenora" Original score by Exist Strategy Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

OPEN MIC NIGHT: Surprises await audience members at a mysterious “Open Mic” performance. Written by Evan Baughfman Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Julian Diaz as "Mike", Mickey Lay as "Michael", and Karla Fischbach as "Lily" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

XIERNON FROM GLIXTAR: A husband and wife try to escape an alien abduction that turns out to be a little friendlier than they originally thought. Written by Maripat Allen Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Casey Johnson as "Husband", Anissa Cordova as "Wife", & Sean Moton as "Xiernon" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

RECESS: Two children enact on the playground how they imagine life would be like as adults. But perhaps they are merely practicing for the future, and they are destined to spend their lives together. Written by Kara Emily Krantz Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Luke Romagnoli as "Lucas", Mia Price as "Georgina", Robert J. LeBlanc as "Adult Lucas", & Chelsea Mahoney as "Adult Georgina" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Featured music by Exist Strategy Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast app! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

THE TICKET: Mary, Tracey, and Gazzara work as night shift call center reps. They hate each other and also have a weird fascination with furries. And tonight, they're playing the lotto. Written by Franky D. Gonzalez Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Pepper Wren as "Mary", Arelis Rivera as "Tracey", and Mickey Lay as "Gazarra" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Year Two Book https://www.amazon.com/Gather-Ghost-Light-Year-Two/dp/1737521636 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast player! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

THE SHELF ON THE ELF: A BRICK FISTULA MYSTERY - It's a murder at the North Pole. Did Santa slay? Brick Fistula, hard-drinking, fast-talking, private eye is gonna find out who's naughty... and who's guilty! Written by John Busser Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Devon McSherry as "Det. O'Flynnahan", Adam Cowart as "Det. O'Callapatrick", Robb Smith as "Santa Claus", Dixie Dawson as "Mrs. Claus", Brandon Dawson as "Chester", Beth Goolsby as "Harmony", and Jonathan Cook as "Brick Fistula". Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Additional featured music by Rober Austin & Lynsay Ryan Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast player! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

HOMO FOR CHRISTMAS: Ashley has brought her new girlfriend, Skyler, home for Christmas to meet her family — who turn out to be exceptionally bad at adapting to change. Written by John Bavoso Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Paige Blackcloud as "Ashley", Devon McSherry as "Skyler", Adam Cowart as "Dad", Dixie Dawson as "Mom", & Beth Goolsby as "Grandma" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Year Two Book https://www.amazon.com/Gather-Ghost-Light-Year-Two/dp/1737521636 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast player! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS QUESTION: Maggie & Jeff are facing the volatile world of a bind date with the added perils of trying to choose a Christmas film for their date. What makes a movie a Christmas movie? Written by Rachel Feeny-Williams Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Marian Thibodeau as "Maggie" & Jonathan Cook as "Jeff" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Year Two Book https://www.amazon.com/Gather-Ghost-Light-Year-Two/dp/1737521636 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you enjoy this podcast, please please please leave a rating on your preferred podcast player! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

THE SANTA THING: Taylor is excited to bring her girlfriend home to meet her folks for Christmas. There's just one thing that they need to talk about beforehand. The Santa thing. Written by Greg Lam Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Chelsea Mahoney as "Taylor" and Marian Thibodeau as "Alyssa" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Year Two Book https://www.amazon.com/Gather-Ghost-Light-Year-Two/dp/1737521636 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

THE BEAR (Part 1: BEGINNINGS) - Part one of The Bear series of monologues. Bear begins life in a little town house in Frankfurt, 1941, but all is not well with the world...... Written by Christopher Plumridge Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Dale Wylde as "The Bear" Cover art by Martha Lysa (https://www.fiverr.com/japka_a) Watch "The Bear" Short animated film here - https://youtu.be/4_FvKCdw2XY Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Original score by CymphoniK. https://cymphonikmusic.com/ Year Two Book https://www.amazon.com/Gather-Ghost-Light-Year-Two/dp/1737521636 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

THE BOARD: When a new West Point graduate visiting NYC wanders into a conversation between two veterans playing chess in the park, he gets a life lesson he wasn't expecting and that might just keep him -- and his fellow soldiers -- alive. Written by Eric Mansfield Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Rick Davis as "Clarence", Ted Newton as "Todd", and Mickey Lay as "Lance" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Year Two Book https://www.amazon.com/Gather-Ghost-Light-Year-Two/dp/1737521636 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

PETE AND PETRIA'S PETRIFYING PODCAST: Two thrill seeking podcast hosts take on a little too much when they decide to do a live stream investigation at a notorious haunted house. Written by Dana Hall and David Lipschutz Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Robb Smith as "Pete", Dana Hall as "Petria", Arelis Rivera as "Michelle", Jacquelyn Floyd as "Anna", Adam Cowart as "Bennie", Rick Davis as "Herbert", and introducing Felicity Thibodeau as "Magdalena" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Additional featured music: A Time of Shadows Cover art photo by TJ McSherry The new shirt is available now at TeeVillain but act quick, it won't last long! - siniSTORE: Where eVil lurks after hours - teeVillain Year Two Book (still pending review but will be online within the next 24 hours!) Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts.

Get the new Gather by the Ghost Light T-shirt at TeeVillain! Sizes from XS to 5XL in so many different styles! Other Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee

YOU'VE REACHED JUSTIN: Daniel only planned for a night out of clubbing with his best friend and crush, Justin. But before they can meet, monsters fall from the sky and begin attacking the city. When Justin won't answer his phone, Daniel starts out through the carnage and chaos to rescue him, leaving voicemails along the way. "You've Reached Justin" blends sci-fi and horror with romance to deliver a heart pounding short about the complexities of crushes and monsters. Written by Christain St. Croix Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: KJ Welcher as "Daniel and Michael Cameron Bailey as "Justin" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Additional featured music: A Time of Shadows Special appearance by Doctor Necropolis of the Frightmare Theatre Podcast! This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform the stage version of this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com

OFF CENTER: Melody, a somewhat eccentric older woman, sits in front of her favorite painting at the art museum, a white dot painted slightly off center on a black background. It's closing time and the new security guard, Lindsay, needs for her to clear out, but before she leaves, Melody will give a lesson on life, art and living while you still can appreciate the beauty in life. Written by Jacquelyn Floyd-Priskorn Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Marian Thibodeau as "Lindsay", Christy Roosma as "Melody", and Wes Hennings as "Marco" Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Additional featured music: Exist Strategy This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform the stage version of this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com

A PERFECT TWO: In this romantic comedy, tension begins to rise when a couple decides to play a little game of “how would you rate your partner on a scale from one to ten”. It turns out that being perfect for each other doesn't always mean you're a ten.  Written by Guy Newsham Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Devon McSherry as the Woman TJ McSherry as the Man Intro/Outro music: JK/47 This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform the stage version of this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com

A BENEVOLENT ALLIANCE OF MOURNERS: A student, home from college to attend the funeral of a friend, and a singer, hired to perform at the service, meet by chance outside the church, conversing, confessing, and connecting in unexpected ways. Written by Ken Preuss Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Oliver Caffee as Alex Chelsea Mahoney as Ellie Featured music by Jess Hannan Intro/Outro music: JK/47 This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts. *September is Suicide Prevention and Awareness month. It's important for you to know that suicide is preventable. With commitment and engagement in our communities, workplaces, and homes, together we can help reduce the number of suicides. If you are someone you know needs help or are having suicidal thoughts, please call 1-800-273-TALK (8255). Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform the stage version of this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright. If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com

WEDDING BELL BLUES: A mother's nose gets out of joint when discussing her daughter's wedding plans. She feels left out and feeling down until she opens her birthday present from her daughter. Written by Marj O'Neill-Butler Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Kate Dailey as ROCHELLE (the Bride to Be) Susan Willis as MOTHER Intro/Outro music: JK/47 This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts. This episode is brought to you in part by Synecdoche Works in California. For more info about their upcoming submission call for The Frank Moffett Mosier Fellowship for Works in Heightened Language go to their website - https://www.synecdocheworks.org/announcing-fellowship/ Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform the stage version of this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com

A WICKED SLICE: A trio of golfers are searching for a lost golf ball, but what they find as they venture off the fairway makes them realize that maybe they should've just taken the penalty stroke instead. Written by John Busser Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Adam Cowart as STEVE Will Lane as GEORGE Jonathan Cook as ALAN Matt Hoffman as TED PATTERSON Intro/Outro music: JK/47 This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts. This episode is brought to you in part by the Chapin Theatre Company in SC. For more info about their upcoming submission call for 10 minute plays go to their website - www.chapintheatre.org  Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform the stage version of this play, please sent an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com to get connected with the playwright If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com

NEW KID NEXT DOOR: Two siblings are stuck with the weird, creepy - and ultimately maybe not even human - kid from next door, on July Fourth, when there are firecrackers to be stolen and played with. Let freedom ring! Written by Arthur M. Jolly Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Kelsie Johnson as KERRI Sophie Cook as SIMONE Luke Romagnoli as RAZIEL (the new kid next door) Intro/Outro music: JK/47 This program is supported in part by the Greater Augusta Arts Council through a grant from its partner agency - the National Endowment for the Arts. Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform the stage version of this play, please contact playwright Arthur M. Jolly (http://www.arthurjolly.com) If you have any comments or feedback, please send an email to gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com

AN AWKWARD CONVERSATION IN THE SHADOW OF MOUNT MORIAH: After luring Isaac to the top of Mount Moriah under false pretenses, binding him, and nearly sacrificing him, Abraham is faced with an even more arduous task... attempting to make small talk with his son during their walk home. Written by John Bavoso Directed by Jonathan Cook Performed by: Oliver Caffee as ISAAC Brandon Brune as ABRAHAM Intro/Outro music: JK/47 Gather by the Ghost Light merch available at Online Shop! If you would like to further support this podcast, please visit Buy Me a Coffee If you are associated with a theatre and would like to perform the stage version of this play, please contact gatherbytheghostlight@gmail.com