Welcome

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We are Blue Dasher Press. We are a small, indie press based in Sacramento. We publish stage plays, novels, short stories, and collections of poetry exclusively by writer Wren Valentino, who co-founded the company with us in July of 2017. 

To date, we have published more than seventy of Wren's plays. Five of these scripts have been adapted into films. 

All of our stage plays are available to purchase at a pay-what-you-want rate in our digital store.  

If you're an actor, we encourage you to check out the Monologues section, especially if you're looking for a contemporary audition piece.

Interested in performing one of our plays? Visit the Producing Our Plays section where you will find more information about the simple three-step process for requesting free production rights. 

All of our plays can be produced royalty-free. There is never a cost to produce one of our scripts. We believe theatre is for everyone.

To learn more about our novels and short stories, the Fiction section includes information about them.

Similarly, the Poetry section is devoted to our collections of poetry. 

Don't forget to check out our Giveaways page where you can find information on when the Kindle Unlimited editions of our books and short stories are available free every month. 

You can find us on Facebook and on Instagram at bluedasherpress.

Please reach out to us at anytime with questions via our contact form. We will be happy to help you. 

Again, thank you for being here!

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