Blue Dasher Press Announces the Publication of Homecomings by Wren Valentino

We are thrilled to announce the publication of Homecomings, the latest short stage play from award-winning playwright Wren Valentino. The play explores the fragile, often painful nature of reconnection through the lens of two former high school rivals who cross paths once again after forty years. Set in a small-town laundromat on a Wednesday night, Homecomings delves deep into the lives of Cathy and Leslie, two women in their 50s whose pasts have shaped them in unexpected ways.

The Story: Cathy is a woman struggling with the bitterness of unfulfilled dreams, while Leslie, a once-celebrated beauty queen, now faces the harsh reality of being forgotten by time. As they confront one another in this seemingly mundane setting, tensions rise, and the weight of their shared history becomes undeniable. The laundromat, a place of routine and solitude, acts as the perfect backdrop for their emotional reckoning.

Cast of Characters:

Cathy – In her 50s, struggling to not let the bitterness of life take over.

Leslie – In her 50s, a former beauty queen grappling with the feeling that she’s been left behind.

Time and Place:

A local laundromat in a small town, on a Wednesday night, in the present year.

Acknowledgments:

Homecomings received its world premiere on October 12, 2024, as part of The Play Crawl series, produced by the Funky Little Theater Company in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The production, directed by John Longo, featured captivating performances by Karen Kennedy and Suzanne Lucas.

A Word from the Playwright:

"I wrote Homecomings to explore the ways people live in the shadow of their pasts. Cathy and Leslie are each trapped in a different way—one cannot move past what she was, and the other fears she has no future at all. I wanted to give voice to those moments in life when two people face each other and realize that time has not only changed them but has also left them questioning who they are now." – Wren Valentino.

Get your copy of Homecomings today and witness the emotional depth of these two characters as they navigate their complex relationship and the passage of time.

Why We Don’t Charge Royalties – A Message from Blue Dasher Press

From a recent production of
The Bray of The Belles

At Blue Dasher Press, we believe that theatre should be accessible to everyone. It’s as simple as that. The joy, the impact, and the stories that theatre brings to life shouldn’t be gated by high production costs or steep licensing fees. That’s why we’ve made the conscious decision to not charge royalties for the works we publish. We want artists, directors, and theatre companies, no matter their size or budget, to have the opportunity to produce and share meaningful stories with their communities.

Our co-founder, Wren Valentino, has written more than seventy stage plays, which have been performed in twelve countries and in three languages. Wren’s vision is clear—he wants theatre to be a tool for expression, a means of connecting people across cultures and backgrounds, and a space where everyone can find themselves in the characters and stories presented on stage. It’s a mission that we wholeheartedly embrace at Blue Dasher Press.

To further that commitment, we’ve made our entire catalogue of stage plays available in printable PDFs at a pay-what-you-want rate. We trust that those who find value in these works will contribute what they can, whether that’s a few dollars, a lot more, or simply nothing at all. The key is accessibility, and we believe that if we make the work available in a way that’s open and flexible, we can help ensure that anyone who wants to create can do so without financial barriers standing in their way.

From a recent production of
Just Before the Drop

Theatre is for everyone. Whether you’re a student putting on your first production, a professional company looking for a fresh voice, or a community theatre group putting on a show for the joy of it, we want our plays to be available to you. By removing the financial hurdles often associated with licensing and royalty payments, we hope to empower artists to take these scripts and bring them to life in whatever way speaks to their audience.

We know that when theatre is made accessible, it has the potential to do incredible things. It can provoke thought, stir emotions, and even change lives. And at Blue Dasher Press, we’re proud to contribute to that mission, one play at a time.

From the Australia premiere of
Somebody's Baby

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. We can’t wait to see where these plays will go next, and we hope you’ll join us in making theatre a little bit more accessible, one production at a time.

— The Team at Blue Dasher Press

Blue Dasher Press Announces I Bet She Has a Party to Go To by Wren Valentino Selected for The Best 10-Minute Plays of 2025

We are thrilled to announce that I Bet She Has a Party to Go To, a 10-minute play by Wren Valentino, has been selected for inclusion in The Best 10-Minute Plays of 2025, an upcoming anthology from Smith & Kraus, edited by the esteemed Debbie Lamdedman. This exciting news comes on the heels of the play's celebrated world premiere in February 2024 at Futures Explored in Sacramento, California, and we couldn't be more proud to see Wren's work recognized in such a prestigious collection.

I Bet She Has a Party to Go To is a thought-provoking exploration of envy, perception, and the complexities of women’s lives. Set in a city park, the play follows three women as they watch a beautiful, free-spirited woman roller skate by, triggering their feelings of resentment toward what they assume is her carefree existence. Through sharp dialogue and insightful character development, the play dives into the internal struggles each woman faces, unveiling the layers of societal expectations and personal insecurities that fuel their jealousy. In just a few minutes, Valentino crafts a poignant narrative that not only challenges the assumptions we make about others but also invites the audience to reflect on the pressures and hidden realities of their own lives.

The play’s inclusion in The Best 10-Minute Plays of 2025 underscores its relevance and impact, resonating with audiences and critics alike for its honesty, vulnerability, and wit. I Bet She Has a Party to Go To is a perfect example of how short-form theatre can evoke deep emotional truths and provoke meaningful conversations about the human experience.

“I am incredibly honored that I Bet She Has a Party to Go To will be included in The Best 10-Minute Plays of 2025," says playwright Wren Valentino. "This play was born from a moment of watching someone glide effortlessly through life, only to realize that those around her are all grappling with their own stories. I’m so grateful to the team at Futures Explored for bringing this play to life and to Smith & Kraus and Debbie Lamedman for recognizing its heart. It’s my hope that this play reminds audiences of the complexities beneath the surface of those we envy and that we all have our own unique paths to navigate.”

We at Blue Dasher Press are excited to see Wren Valentino’s work continue to reach new audiences and we can’t wait to celebrate the upcoming publication of The Best 10-Minute Plays of 2025. Congratulations to Wren on this well-deserved recognition!

The original cast of
I Bet She Has a Party to Go To
by Wren Valentino

Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me: A Play for Young Gay Audiences Finding Love

At Blue Dasher Press, we believe that stories have the power to transform lives, and few plays embody this belief as strongly as Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me by Wren Valentino. A poignant and heartfelt exploration of first love, identity, and the complexities of young gay relationships, this play has resonated with audiences across the country and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many. For young gay individuals navigating the turbulence of adolescence and self-discovery, the play provides both validation and hope—showing that love is not only possible but beautiful and worth pursuing, even in the face of societal challenges.

The Story: A Love to Remember

At its core, Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me tells the story of two high school students who embark on a journey of discovery and intimacy. Johnny Ramirez, a bright and ambitious student, is selected to be the math tutor for Alex Wilde, a seemingly misunderstood and socially isolated peer. As they spend time together, they begin to form a bond that deepens into something much more powerful—an unexpected and tender first love.

Set against the backdrop of high school, a time fraught with confusion, self-doubt, and the yearning for acceptance, the play captures the raw emotions of falling in love for the first time. Johnny and Alex's relationship develops with a mixture of humor, vulnerability, and hesitation, reflecting the uncertainty many young gay individuals experience as they come to terms with their sexual orientation. The play offers a refreshing narrative that not only portrays the excitement and sweetness of a blossoming relationship but also the anxiety and fear of expressing one’s true self to the world.

"As a playwright, I wanted to create a story that reflects the joy and complexity of first love, especially for young people discovering who they are," says playwright Wren Valentino. "Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me is a celebration of vulnerability, tenderness, and the courage it takes to embrace love in all its forms. For those who see themselves in Johnny and Alex, I hope this play serves as a reminder that no matter the challenges, love is always worth seeking and always worth fighting for." 

Significance to Young Gay Audiences

For many young gay individuals, Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me is more than just a play—it's a mirror reflecting their own experiences, feelings, and dreams. The characters of Johnny and Alex are relatable and authentic, with their fears, desires, and joys mirroring those faced by countless young people discovering their identity and navigating the complexities of their first love.

The play speaks directly to the struggle of finding acceptance, both from others and from oneself. The awkwardness and uncertainty in Johnny and Alex's relationship are grounded in a universal experience for young people coming out—balancing the need for connection with the desire for personal safety. As Johnny and Alex venture into their love story, they not only confront their own feelings but also grapple with the societal pressures and expectations placed upon them as young gay individuals. In this way, the play serves as a beacon of hope for those who may feel isolated or afraid, showing them that love—genuine, tender, and transformative—is always worth pursuing, no matter the obstacles.

Additionally, the representation of diverse gay characters is critical for young gay audiences who often struggle to find themselves reflected in mainstream media. The characters of Johnny and Alex defy stereotypes, offering a refreshing departure from the traditional portrayals of gay characters. Through their nuanced and multi-dimensional personalities, the play highlights the beauty and complexity of young gay love, making it an essential work for audiences seeking to see their own experiences validated.

A History of Impact

Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me has had an impactful and diverse production history since its world premiere at Stage Q in Madison, Wisconsin, on June 22, 2006. Directed by Erik Weinke, this debut production was well-received and was selected to be part of the Queer Shorts Festival, highlighting its significance within the broader LGBTQ+ theatrical community.

The play's reach extended to New York, where it premiered at the 78th Street Theatre Lab in December 2007 as part of the Stage This, Too! festival. Directed by Jon Michael Murphy, this production featured Chris von Hoffmann as Alex and Bobby Abid as Johnny, capturing the tenderness of the characters' relationship with striking emotional depth. Later, in April 2008, Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me was performed at the Boston Center for the Arts, where it won the 2008 Slam Boston Award for Best Play, further solidifying its significance in the LGBTQ+ theatrical landscape.

Subsequent productions continued to bring the play to new audiences, including a second New York performance in 2010 at the Roy Arias Studio Theatres as part of the Short Play Lab. The play’s journey culminated with its official selection for the 2013 DC Queer Theatre Festival, where it was directed by Alvin Ford, further proving its enduring relevance to the queer community.

A Lasting Legacy

As Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me continues to be staged and celebrated in different regions, its impact on young gay audiences remains profound. The play is a reminder that love is universal, that coming out is a journey filled with both joy and fear, and that self-discovery is a beautiful, sometimes difficult process that deserves to be seen and celebrated. The play offers young gay people the opportunity to see themselves as the heroes of their own stories and reminds them that love, in all its forms, is worth cherishing.

For those of us at Blue Dasher Press, Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me represents more than just a theatrical production—it is a testament to the power of storytelling to shape and reflect the experiences of LGBTQ+ youth. Through the poignant and heartfelt journey of Johnny and Alex, the play gives voice to the emotions, struggles, and triumphs of young gay love, offering a sense of connection and belonging to all who watch.

If you haven't had the chance to experience Johnny Ramirez Really Wants to Kiss Me, we highly encourage you to seek it out. Whether on stage or in your own heart, Johnny and Alex’s story is one that stays with you long after the curtain falls.

New Release: Just Forget the World by Wren Valentino - Exclusive to Kindle!

We’re thrilled to announce the release of Just Forget the World, a heart-wrenching short story by bestselling author Wren Valentino, now available exclusively in a Kindle Unlimited edition!

In this poignant tale, Naomi and Dominic are both mourning the loss of loved ones, each navigating the heavy weight of grief. When they meet in a cemetery, they find solace in each other’s company, and slowly, a deep connection begins to form. What follows is a tender journey of healing, as the two find love in the most unexpected of places — with each other.

Wren Valentino shares his inspiration behind the story: "I wanted to write about two people who were living deep in grief but form a connection and find love to help them navigate their loss. So many people are processing grief and trying to figure their way through it, including me. I still believe love between two people can make a difference when someone is trying to heal a broken heart."

Whether you’re dealing with grief or simply love a moving romance, Just Forget the World is a story that will touch your heart. Don’t miss out — read it now on Kindle!

Happy New Year from Blue Dasher Press!

Happy New Year from Blue Dasher Press!

We hope your year is off to a fantastic start! As we settle into 2025, we wanted to take a moment to thank you, our amazing readers, for your support. It's your enthusiasm for storytelling that keeps us going, and we couldn't be more grateful. We look forward to bringing you more exciting releases, exclusive offers, and great content in the months ahead.

Monthly Kindle Unlimited Giveaways

To kick off the new year, we're continuing our monthly Kindle Unlimited giveaway! Every third Wednesday of the month, all of our Kindle Unlimited titles will be available to download for free. It's a little something special for our readers, and a great way to try out one of Wren Valentino's titles. Mark your calendars—our first giveaway of 2025 will be on January 17!

Upcoming Releases You Won’t Want to Miss

We have a jam-packed month of new releases in January that we’re so excited to share with you!

Just Forget the World – A brand-new short story available in Kindle Unlimited on January 14. Sometimes, the best way to cope with heartbreak is to forget everything—if only for a while.

Bells and Spells – Originally slated for an October release, this Halloween-themed short story will now be available in Kindle Unlimited on January 21. Who doesn’t love a bit of magic, mischief, and mystery?

Homecomings – This one-act stage play will be released on January 28. It had its world premiere last year in Colorado Springs, and we’re thrilled to share it with a broader audience. It’s a touching exploration of what it means to return home—and what it means to stay.

Visit Our PayHip Store for More Options

If you’re a fan of stage plays, be sure to visit our digital store on PayHip. There, you can download printable copies of all of our stage plays at a pay-what-you-want rate. We believe in making our works as accessible as possible, so whether you're a theater company, a drama student, or a stage enthusiast, we hope our plays bring something special to your life.

New Releases from Wren Valentino

We have several exciting new works from co-founder Wren Valentino. Here’s a quick rundown of his latest releases:

Subterfuge – A film-noir-inspired short stage play set in 1942, featuring a woman and a man caught in the world of espionage. A thrilling, tense piece you won’t want to miss!

Toy – Set in 2057, this futuristic short stage play explores the failure of a male android prototype. With roles for one woman and one man, it’s a chilling look at what it means to create the “perfect” human.

Riding with James Dean – A novelette that captures the spirit of youth, love, and rebellion. Follow Johnny as he navigates a new town, forging friendships with a diverse group of characters who show him the transformative power of summer. New edition!

Mesmerized – This young adult novel centers on Serena Albright, a teen who’s struggling with grief after the tragic death of her brother. Set in 1986 Sacramento, Serena finds herself caught between two boys, Brodie and Lance, who will change her life forever. This book won the Rainbow Award for Best LGBT Coming of Age/Young Adult Novel, and we’re proud to share it with you.

Royalty-Free Stage Plays

And don’t forget—all of our stage plays can be produced royalty-free! We firmly believe that theater should be accessible to everyone, which is why there’s never a charge to produce one of our scripts. Whether you’re a school, a community theater, or a small troupe, we want to support your creative endeavors without any added costs.

Looking Forward to a Great Month!

It’s going to be a fantastic month, and we can’t wait to share all of our new releases, giveaways, and creative projects with you. Thank you again for your continued support, and here's to a year filled with great books, plays, and unforgettable stories!

Until next time,

The Blue Dasher Press Team