500 short plays and concepts
Short plays (often defined as being 60 minutes or less) are a staple of drama festivals, school competitions, and scene-study workshops. They range from "ten-minute plays" to more substantial one-act productions.
Popular Short Plays & Scripts
The Audition by Don Zolidis: A popular comedy for schools featuring high-stakes, hilarious drama.
The Boor (or The Brute) by Anton Chekhov: A classic farce involving a widow and a boorish landlord.
The Bald Soprano by Eugene Ionesco: A seminal work of the Theatre of the Absurd.
Brian the Comet by Emily Hageman: A poignant drama about a young girl caring for her sick father while her mother is in space.
The Comedy of Errors: Shakespeare's shortest and most farcical play, frequently adapted into shorter versions for performance.
Where to Find Scripts
You can find thousands of scripts through specialized publishers and databases:
Playscripts, Inc.: Extensive catalog for all ages, specializing in contemporary school plays.
Concord Theatricals: Home to the Samuel French collection, including famous 10-minute play competitions.
Drama Notebook: Offers a massive library specifically for kids and teens, including many royalty-free options.
Stage Partners: Features modern one-acts and 10-minute plays designed for competition.
Freedrama.net: Provides free comedy and one-act scripts for smaller groups and classrooms.
Common Formats
10-Minute Plays: Focused on a single arc, quick character development, and immediate conflict.
One-Act Plays: Typically 25–45 minutes, often used for festival competitions like UIL Theatre.
Sketches and Skits: Very brief (2–5 minutes) pieces often used for practice or variety shows
The "New Sparks" (Young Love & First Dates)
The Wi-Fi Password: Two strangers in a cafe bond over a malfunctioning router and end up sharing a life story instead of a password.
Dog Park Diplomacy: A golden retriever and a husky get their leashes tangled, forcing their reluctant owners to untangle their own social anxieties.
Library Whispers: Two students communicate solely through margin notes in a borrowed textbook.
The Misplaced Umbrella: Standing under a bus stop in a downpour, two strangers realize they are both heading to the same wedding—of their mutual ex.
Art Gallery Critique: A man tries to impress a woman by pretending to understand abstract art, only to find out she’s the artist.
The Grocery Cart Collision: A meet-cute over the last carton of oat milk leads to a debate about breakfast ethics.
Elevator Stalled: Ten floors, two people, and a sudden power outage that forces an honest conversation.
The Wrong Uber: A woman gets into a car thinking it’s her ride; the driver isn't an Uber driver, but he’s heading her way.
Karaoke Courage: A duet of a cheesy 80s ballad turns into a real romantic moment on a dive bar stage.
The Bookstore Quest: Two people are looking for the same rare poetry book; they agree to share it and meet weekly to read it together.
The "Deep Roots" (Established Couples & Marriage)
The Ikea Manual: A couple’s relationship is tested by a "simple" bookshelf and a missing Allen wrench.
The 3:00 AM Feeding: Exhausted new parents have a philosophical debate over whose turn it is to soothe the baby.
Anniversary Pizza: On their 10th anniversary, the fancy restaurant loses their reservation, leading to a much better night at a local pizzeria.
The Packing Boxes: A couple moves into their first home and finds a box of memories they forgot they had.
Midnight in the Kitchen: A couple sneaks downstairs for leftovers and ends up dancing to the hum of the refrigerator.
The Lost Key: Locked out of their apartment, a couple spends the night on the porch rediscovering why they fell in love.
Retirement Plans: A couple at 60 argues about whether to buy a sailboat or a cabin, eventually realizing they just want to be wherever the other is.
The Secret Garden: A husband creates a small garden for his wife, who has a "black thumb," leading to a comedy of errors.
Old Love Letters: An elderly couple finds letters they wrote each other fifty years ago and reads them aloud.
The Silent Treatment: A couple tries to see how long they can go without talking, only to break it within minutes because they have too much to share.
The "Bittersweet & Complex" (Drama & Conflict)
The Train Platform: A couple has five minutes to decide if their long-distance relationship is worth the next ticket.
Airport Goodbye: One is leaving for a dream job; the other is staying behind. They try to find the "perfect" last word.
The Unfinished Letter: A woman finds a letter her partner started but never finished, leading to a confrontation about their future.
The Dinner Party Secret: While the guests are in the other room, a couple has a hushed, intense argument in the kitchen.
Photo Album Fire: During a wildfire evacuation, a couple can only save one box of memories; they must choose what defines them.
The Wedding Rehearsal: A bridesmaid and a groomsman realize they are still in love, two years after a messy breakup.
Hospital Waiting Room: A couple faces a health scare, clinging to humor to keep the fear at bay.
The Breakup Brunch: They agreed to stay friends, but the avocado toast is tasting very bitter.
Rainy Window: A couple watches a storm from their apartment, discussing the "one that got away" with surprising honesty.
The Last Dance: At a friend's wedding, a divorced couple shares one dance and realizes they are finally at peace.
The "Whimsical & Surreal" (Comedy & Fantasy)
The Soulmate Alarm: In a world where an alarm goes off when you meet "the one," two people’s alarms are malfunctioning.
Time Traveler’s Date: A man from 1920 takes a woman from 2024 on a date, struggling with modern technology.
The Ghost of Boyfriends Past: A woman’s date is interrupted by the literal ghost of her overprotective ex.
Cupid’s Day Off: An overworked Cupid accidentally shoots himself and falls in love with a statue.
The Dream Swap: A couple realizes they can enter each other’s dreams, but one of them has a very weird imagination.
Love at Zero Gravity: Two astronauts on a space station try to navigate a romantic dinner without the food floating away.
The Truth Serum: A couple accidentally drinks a truth serum at a party and must survive the night without offending each other.
The Invisible Couple: A couple becomes invisible to the world for one hour and uses the time to be completely themselves.
Message in a Bottle: A man finds a bottle on the beach with a phone number; he calls it and finds his perfect match.
The Puppet Master: Two people realize they are characters in a play and try to rewrite their own romantic ending.
The "Quick Hits" (5-Minute Snapshots)
The Red Light: A couple has 60 seconds at a traffic light to settle a week-long argument.
Morning Breath: A hyper-realistic comedy about the less glamorous side of waking up next to someone.
The Last Cookie: A high-stakes standoff over the final chocolate chip cookie in the jar.
Texting Etiquette: Two people sitting next to each other on a couch, texting because they’re too nervous to speak.
The Wrong Gift: He bought her a power drill; she bought him a silk scarf. They try to be polite.
First Sight: A 2-minute play where two people lock eyes across a crowded room—and the play ends.
The Umbrella Share: A silent play about two people walking home under one small umbrella.
Coffee Order: A barista knows a customer’s order so well they start predicting their life events.
The Park Bench: Two elderly people who meet on the same bench every day finally exchange names.
Goodnight: A simple, poignant scene of a couple turning off the lights and saying the same three words they’ve said for 40 years.
To explore similar themes in published works, you can browse collections at Playscripts or Concord Theatricals.
Would you like me to fully script one of these concepts for you, or do you need a list for a different theme?
To keep this snappy and "fast," here are 50 ultra-short plays (micro-scripts) for lovers. Each is designed for two actors and a duration of roughly 30 to 60 seconds.
The Intro: (At a party) A: "I've been staring at your shoes for ten minutes." B: "Are they that bad?" A: "No, I'm just too nervous to look at your eyes."
The Number: A: "I don't give my number to strangers." B: "Good. My name is Sam. Now we're acquaintances." A: (Handing over phone) "Smooth."
The Coffee: A: "You took my latte." B: "I know. I wanted an excuse to talk to you when you came to reclaim it."
The Umbrella: (In rain) A: "It's big enough for two." B: "Are you sure?" A: "Only if you stay close."
The Movie: A: "Did you like the ending?" B: "I don't know, I spent the whole time wondering if you'd hold my hand."
The Menu: A: "What are you getting?" B: "Whatever you're sharing."
The Text: A: "You took three hours to reply." B: "I wrote ten versions. This was the least desperate."
The Ghost: A: "I thought you'd never call." B: "I thought you'd never answer."
The Map: A: "We're lost." B: "I know. I’m fine with it if you are."
The Spill: A: "I ruined your shirt." B: "It’s okay. I’ll keep it forever as a souvenir of our first disaster."
The "Everydays" (11–20)
The Alarm: A: "Five more minutes." B: "You said that an hour ago." A: "The bed is warmer with you in it."
The Grocery: A: "Cereal or eggs?" B: "Whatever gets us back to the couch faster."
The Mirror: A: "I look old." B: "You look like the person I want to wake up to for another forty years."
The Laundry: A: "You shrunk my favorite sweater." B: "Now it fits me. It’s a win-win."
The Cold Feet: A: "Your feet are like ice cubes!" B: "That’s what I have you for."
The Remote: A: "My turn to pick." B: "We’re just going to fall asleep anyway." A: "True. Pick something boring."
The Pizza: A: "The last slice is yours." B: "If you loved me, you'd take it so I don't feel guilty."
The Workday: A: "Rough day?" B: "It was, until I opened the door."
The Silence: A: "What are you thinking?" B: "Nothing. Just that I'm glad you're here."
The Toothbrush: A: "You used mine again." B: "Sharing is caring."
The "Deep & Dreamy" (21–30)
The Stars: A: "Look at the sky." B: "I’d rather look at you." A: "Cheesy." B: "But true."
The Wish: A: "What did you wish for?" B: "Nothing. I already have it."
The Secret: A: "Tell me something nobody knows." B: "I loved you three weeks before I told you."
The Dance: (No music) A: "May I?" B: "In the kitchen?" A: "Best ballroom in the world."
The Grey Hair: A: "I found one." B: "Good. Let's grow old and messy together."
The Photograph: A: "I hate this photo of me." B: "Funny, it's my wallpaper."
The Scar: A: "Where did you get this?" B: "A childhood fall. Now it's just a part of the map you know."
The Promise: A: "Promise me we won't get boring." B: "I promise to annoy you until our last breath."
The Anchor: A: "The world is chaotic." B: "Let it be. We have this room."
The Future: A: "Where do you see us in ten years?" B: "Right here, just with more cats."
The "Arguments & Fixes" (31–40)
The Door: A: "Fine! Leave!" B: (Opens door, stops, closes it) "I forgot I don't want to be anywhere else."
The Apology: A: "I'm sorry." B: "For what?" A: "Being right, but being a jerk about it."
The Burned Toast: A: "Breakfast is ruined." B: "It's carbon. It’s healthy. Give it here."
The Late Arrival: A: "You’re late." B: "I bought your favorite flowers on the way. Does that buy me five minutes?"
The Forgotten Date: A: "You forgot." B: "I didn't forget you. I just forgot the calendar."
The Snore: A: "You were snoring." B: "It was a love song in my sleep."
The Direction: A: "Admit it, we're lost." B: "I'm not lost, I'm exploring."
The Text Fight: A: "Stop typing." B: "I have things to say!" A: "Say them to my face. I'm right here."
The Cold Shoulder: A: "Are you still mad?" B: "Yes." A: "Want a hug?" B: "...Yes."
The Peace Offering: A: "I brought chocolate." B: "Apology accepted."
The "Funny & Flirty" (41–50)
The Bug: A: "There's a spider." B: "I'll save you! (Pause) Nevermind, it’s big. Let's move."
The Pickup Line: A: "Are you tired? Because you've been—" B: "If you finish that sentence, we’re breaking up."
The Chef: A: "How is it?" B: "It's... unique." A: "I'm ordering Thai."
The Gym: A: "I'm sweaty." B: "You're beautiful." A: "You're blind."
The Thief: A: "You stole my hoodie." B: "It's mine now. Possession is nine-tenths of the law."
The Dare: A: "I bet you can't go a minute without kissing me." B: "You're on. (Wait 2 seconds) I lost."
The Mirror Part 2: A: "Do these jeans make me look—" B: "Perfect. Next question."
The Habit: A: "You always do that." B: "Do what?" A: "Make me smile when I'm trying to be serious."
The Rain Check: A: "I'm too tired to go out." B: "Good. Sweatpants and a movie?" A: "I love you."
The End/Beginning: A: "So, what happens now?" B: "We keep going."
For professional scripts, check out Samuel French or Playscripts.
Would you like me to expand any of these into a full 5-minute scene?
The "Firsts" (1–10)
continue
Here are 50 more ultra-short plays for lovers, focusing on the quirky, the dramatic, and the unspoken moments.
The "Technically Love" (51–60)
The Read Receipt: A: "You saw my text an hour ago." B: "I was busy panicking about the perfect reply."
The Shared Screen: A: "Who’s 'Jess'?" B: "The person selling the engagement ring I was trying to hide."
The Playlist: A: "This song is us." B: "It’s about a train wreck." A: "Exactly. A beautiful one."
The Charger: A: "I'm at 1%." B: "Take mine. My love is at 100%." A: "Don't ever say that again."
The Filter: A: "Don't post that, I look messy." B: "That’s my favorite version of you."
The Autocorrect: A: "You texted 'I love stew'." B: "I meant 'you'. But I stand by both."
The Mute Button: A: "You’re on a work call." B: "I’m muted. Tell me you love me."
The Password: A: "What’s your laptop password?" B: "The date we met. Try to keep up."
The Group Chat: A: "My friends love you." B: "I know. I'm the one who’s been texting them for advice."
The Unsubscribe: A: "I'm unsubscribing from this argument." B: "Fine. I’m signing you up for a hug."
The Island: A: "If we were stranded, I'd eat you last." B: "That's the nicest thing you've ever said."
The Time Machine: A: "Would you find me in 18th-century France?" B: "I’d look for the person complaining about the lack of indoor plumbing."
The Lottery: A: "If we win, we travel the world." B: "If we lose, we stay here? Deal."
The Body Swap: A: "I look great in your skin." B: "Give it back, I have a meeting."
The Zombie Apocalypse: A: "I’d distract them so you could run." B: "I’d never run. We’d just be a very cute zombie couple."
The Reincarnation: A: "What if I come back as a cat?" B: "I'll buy the expensive tuna."
The Superhero: A: "What's your superpower?" B: "Knowing exactly when you need a grilled cheese."
The Ghost Story: A: "Do you believe in ghosts?" B: "I believe in us haunting this house for eternity."
The Parallel Universe: A: "In another life, we're already married." B: "Let's catch up to them."
The Space Quest: A: "Mars is lonely." B: "Not if we're on the same ship."
The "Bittersweet Snapshots" (71–80)
The Moving Van: A: "Is that the last box?" B: "Of this life. The next one starts at the new house."
The Airport Curb: A: "Don't look back." B: "I have to. I'm checking if you're crying too."
The Hospital Gown: A: "You look ridiculous." B: "As long as you're the one laughing at me."
The Rain Check 2: A: "Maybe next time." B: "There has to be a next time."
The Old Coat: A: "I found your scarf in my pocket." B: "Keep it. I want a reason to see you tomorrow."
The Last Cigarette: A: "I'm quitting." B: "Me too. Let’s find a new habit."
The Long Distance: A: "The screen is blurry." B: "That's just the tears, honey."
The Reunion: A: "You look... the same." B: "You look like home."
The Letter: A: "You never sent it." B: "I didn't need to. You showed up anyway."
The Bridge: A: "Don't jump to conclusions." B: "I'm only jumping if you're catching."
The "Comedic Chaos" (81–90)
The Spider 2: A: "Kill it!" B: "It has a family!" A: "It’s in our bed! It is the family now!"
The Map 2: A: "Google says turn left." B: "Google doesn't know this neighborhood like I do." A: "We're in a lake."
The Yoga: A: "I can't breathe." B: "That's the 'downward dog' of love."
The IKEA Part 2: A: "This screw is extra." B: "That's fine. The table only has three legs anyway."
The Diet: A: "No carbs." B: "I hid bread in the laundry room." A: "I love you so much."
The Costume: A: "Why am I the horse's butt?" B: "Because you're the funny one."
The Snore 2: A: "I recorded you." B: "That's not me. That's a chainsaw."
The Gift 2: A: "A vacuum?" B: "It’s a cordless vacuum!" A: "Divorce."
The Alarm 2: A: "It's 5 AM." B: "If you move, the dream ends."
The Haircut: A: "Do you like it?" B: "It'll grow back. (Pause) I mean, you're stunning!"
The "Final Words" (91–100)
The Porch Swing: A: "Still here?" B: "Where else would I go?"
The Wedding Vow: A: "I promise to always—" B: "Interrupt you? You already do."
The Library: A: "Shh." B: "I’m whispering 'I love you' in the biography section."
The Elevator: A: "Going up?" B: "Only if you're coming with."
The Taxi: A: "Wait!" B: "I'm not leaving. I'm just getting my bags."
The Midnight Snack: A: "Is that my cheese?" B: "Our cheese."
The First Snow: A: "It's beautiful." B: "It's cold. Hold me."
The Mirror 3: A: "We're getting wrinkled." B: "Those are just lines where the smiles were."
The Key: A: "I made you a copy." B: "The door or your heart?" A: "Both. Use the door first."
The Sunset: A: "It’s over." B: "No. The sun just goes down so we can see the stars."
For more structural inspiration on writing shorts, visit The 10-Minute Play Library.
Would you like to focus on one specific genre for a longer scene, or do you have enough for your project?
The "What Ifs" (61–70)
Since you're craving more, let’s push into The "After Hours" & The "Oddly Specific" (101–150). These focus on the strange, tiny, and deeply human quirks of being in love.
The Thermostat: A: "It’s sixty degrees in here." B: "Put on a sweater. I’m conserving energy." A: "The energy to stay married?"
The Leftovers: A: "You ate my Pad Thai." B: "I thought it was a gift." A: "A gift for who? The ghost of my hunger?"
The Towel: A: "You left a wet towel on the bed again." B: "It’s an island. I’m a castaway. Come rescue me."
The Dishwasher: A: "That’s not how you load it." B: "It’s clean, isn’t it?" A: "It’s chaos in metal form."
The Netflix Log: A: "Why are there documentaries about serial killers in my 'Recommended'?" B: "I had a weird Tuesday."
The Snooze Button: A: "That’s the fourth time." B: "I’m practicing my patience."
"Practice it in the kitchen."
The Pillow Thief: A: "Give it back." B: "My head is heavier than yours. I need the support."
The Grocery List: A: "You forgot the one thing I asked for." B: "I bought wine instead. Isn't that better?"
The Toilet Paper: A: "Over or under?" B: "Over, obviously. I’m not a monster." A: "Correct answer. We can proceed."
The Light Switch: A: "Did you lock the door?" B: "I’m already under the covers." A: "Rock, paper, scissors for it."
The "Vulnerability" (111–120)
The Nightmare: A: "You were shaking." B: "I dreamt you forgot who I was." A: "Never. Even if I forget my own name."
The Scars: A: "I don't like my body today." B: "Good thing I'm obsessed with it then."
The Silence: A: "Say something." B: "I’m just listening to you breathe. It’s my favorite song."
The Crying: A: "It’s just a commercial." B: "It’s a dog finding its way home! Have you no soul?"
The Bad Day: A: "Don't look at me." B: "I've seen you at your worst, and you're still the best thing in this room."
The Apology: A: "I was wrong." B: "Say it again, but slower. I want to record it."
The Secret Fear: A: "What if you get bored?" B: "I haven't even finished memorizing the way you laugh yet."
The Rain: A: "We’re soaked." B: "At least we don't have to worry about looking perfect anymore."
The Dark: A: "I'm scared of the dark." B: "Good. It gives me an excuse to hold you tighter."
The Hospital: A: "You stayed all night." B: "The chair is surprisingly comfortable when you're in the bed."
The Wink: A: "Did you just wink at me?" B: "I had something in my eye. Love. It was love."
The Dare: A: "I bet you can't go five minutes without touching me." B: "I'm not a gambler, but I'll take that bet. (1 second later) I'm bankrupt."
The Mirror: A: "Stop staring." B: "I'm not staring, I'm admiring the view."
The Chef: A: "You're wearing more flour than the pizza." B: "It’s a look. Do you like it?"
The Taxi: A: "Get in." B: "Where are we going?" A: "Wherever the driver goes if we tell him 'just drive'."
The Note: A: "You left this in my lunch." B: "Did you eat the sandwich?" A: "I ate the note too. It was sweeter."
The Elevator: A: "Going down?" B: "Only if we can stop at every floor and kiss."
The Whisper: A: "What did you say?" B: "Nothing. I just wanted to see your ear up close."
The Rain 2: A: "My hair is ruined." B: "You look like a mermaid. Keep it."
The Smile: A: "Why are you smiling?" B: "I remembered I get to keep you."
The "Existential & Sweet" (131–140)
The Galaxy: A: "We’re just dust." B: "Yeah, but we’re dust that found each other. That’s pretty cool dust."
The Time Loop: A: "If today repeated forever, would you be mad?" B: "Only if we have to eat that kale salad again."
The Ghost: A: "If I die first, I'm haunting your coffee mug." B: "I’ll never wash it."
The Parallel: A: "In another world, we’re rivals." B: "I’d let you win every time."
The Memory: A: "What’s our first memory?" B: "The way you smelled like vanilla and nervousness."
The Map: A: "You’re my North Star." B: "That’s helpful, because you’re definitely lost."
The Book: A: "We're on chapter ten." B: "I hope this book is a thousand pages long."
The Ocean: A: "The sea is huge." B: "Still smaller than how I feel about you." A: "That was actually good."
The Statue: A: "Stay still." B: "Why?" A: "I want to remember exactly how the light hits your face right now."
The Wish: A: "Don't tell me what you wished for." B: "I don't have to. You're standing on it."
The "Short & Sharp" (141–150)
The Key: A: "It’s your house now, too." B: "Does that mean I can change the rug?" A: "Don't push it."
The Exit: A: "I'm leaving." B: "Take me with you." A: "I’m just going to the mailbox." B: "I know."
The Song: A: "Our song is playing." B: "We don't have a song." A: "We do now."
The Ring: A: "It’s shiny." B: "It’s a promise. Keep it polished."
The Coffee: A: "Black, like your soul." B: "And sweet, like yours."
The Bridge: A: "Don't look down." B: "I'm only looking at you."
The Taxi 2: A: "Follow that car!" B: "Why?" A: "Because my heart is in the backseat."
The First Date: A: "I had a great time." B: "I'm already planning the second one."
The Secret: A: "I have a secret." B: "Me too." A: "On three? One, two, three—" Both: "I love you."
The End: A: "Is that it?" B: "No. That’s just the intermission."
For more inspiration on how to stage these "flash plays," check out the Samuel French Off-Off-Broadway Festival guidelines for short-form storytelling.
The "Domestic Warfare" (101–110)
The "Flirty & Fast" (121–130.
Buckle up. We’re moving into The "Late Night Melancholy," The "Absurdly Rom-Com," and The "Aged Like Wine" segments (151–200). These focus on the grit and the giggles of long-term intimacy.
The "Bare Truths" (151–160)
The Bank Account: A: "We’re broke." B: "But we have a high interest rate on cuddles." A: "You’re lucky you’re cute because we can’t pay rent with that."
The Gray Hair: A: "Pluck it." B: "No. It’s a silver medal for surviving five years of my nonsense."
The Unspoken: A: "You’re quiet today." B: "I’m just realizing how lucky I am. It’s a lot to process."
The Old Hoodie: A: "This has holes in it." B: "It smells like you. It’s high fashion to me."
The Baggage: A: "I come with a lot of issues." B: "I brought extra suitcases. Let's pack them together."
The Mirror 4: A: "I don't recognize myself." B: "I do. You’re the person who makes my tea exactly right."
The Snore 3: A: "You were talking in your sleep." B: "Was I being charming?" A: "You were arguing about the price of cheese."
The Scars 2: A: "Does this look weird?" B: "It looks like the story of how you became you. I love that story."
The Realization: A: "We’re not 'young' anymore." B: "Good. Young people are exhausting. Let’s take a nap."
The Anchor: A: "I feel like I'm drifting." B: "Grab my hand. I'm heavy."
The Alien Abduction: A: "If they take me, tell them I’m picky about snacks." B: "If they take you, I’m hijacking a rocket."
The Spy: A: "Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to get me a glass of water." B: "This message will self-destruct if I don't get a kiss first."
The Vampire: A: "Would you still love me if I was a vampire?" B: "Only if you didn't sparkle. That’s where I draw the line."
The Narrator: A: (In a deep voice) "He walked into the kitchen, looking for the toast." B: "She told him to stop narrating her life or there’d be no toast."
The Duel: A: "En garde!" (With spoons). B: "You’re outmatched, peasant!" A: "I have the power of love!" B: "I have a spatula!"
The Pet Voice: A: "The cat says you’re late with dinner." B: "Tell the cat the cat doesn't have a job."
The Ghost 2: A: "If I’m a ghost, I’m moving your keys every morning." B: "So nothing changes then?"
The Superpower 2: A: "I wish I could read your mind." B: "It’s just a loop of 'I hope she likes this pizza' right now."
The Time Loop 2: A: "We’ve had this exact argument before." B: "I know. It’s a classic. I like the part where you forgive me."
The Robot: A: "I am a love-bot. Beep boop." B: "Does the love-bot know how to do the laundry?" A: "Error 404. System crash."
The "Tough Conversations" (171–180)
The Move: A: "It’s a long way away." B: "As long as your shoes are next to mine, I’m home."
The Job: A: "I didn't get it." B: "Their loss. My gain. I get you for dinner tonight."
The Fight: A: "I'm still mad." B: "Me too. Want to be mad while we watch a movie?" A: "Fine. But I’m not sharing the popcorn."
The Doubt: A: "Do you ever wonder if we missed out?" B: "I look at you and I feel like I won. Why would I look back?"
The Rain 3: A: "Everything is ruined." B: "The picnic is wet, but the company is five stars."
The Change: A: "I’m not the person you met." B: "Thank god. I like this version better."
The Secret 3: A: "I have something to tell you." B: "If it’s that you’re a secret agent, I already knew."
The Distance: A: "It’s only six months." B: "It’s 180 days without seeing your face. It’s an eternity."
The Apology 2: A: "I'm sorry I snapped." B: "I'm sorry I was snappable."
The Bridge 2: A: "Let's just keep walking." B: "To the end of the bridge?" A: "To the end of the world."
The "Sweet & Simple" (181–190)
The Bookmark: A: "You lost my page." B: "I wanted to see where you were so I could catch up."
The Tea: A: "Too much sugar?" B: "Just like you." A: "Ugh, stop."
The Window: A: "Look at the moon." B: "I was looking at the reflection of your eyes in the glass."
The Blanket: A: "You’re hogging it." B: "I’m creating a cocoon for us."
The Walk: A: "My legs hurt." B: "Hop on. I’m a noble steed."
The Radio: A: "I hate this song." B: "But you look so cute when you try to hit the high notes."
The Star: A: "Make a wish." B: "Already came true."
The Hand: A: "Your hand is sweaty." B: "It’s because I’m still nervous when I touch you."
The Kitchen: A: "What are we making?" B: "Memories. And also tacos."
The Doorbell: A: "Who is it?" B: "The rest of our lives. Should we let it in?"
The "Grand Finale Shorts" (191–200)
The First Move: A: "You kissed me first." B: "Revisionist history! You leaned in!" A: "I was leaning for my drink!"
The Wedding: A: "Do you?" B: "I already did. Years ago."
The Porch: A: "Quiet night." B: "The best kind of loud."
The Key 3: A: "I lost my keys." B: "You can have mine. I’m not going anywhere."
The Photo: A: "Smile!" B: "I can't help it when I'm looking at you."
The Sunset 2: A: "It’s gone." B: "The stars are better anyway."
The Midnight: A: "Happy Anniversary." B: "It’s 12:01. You’re early." A: "I couldn't wait."
The Map 3: A: "Are we there yet?" B: "We’re exactly where we’re supposed to be."
The Heartbeat: A: "Listen." B: "It’s fast." A: "It’s yours."
The Curtain: A: "Is that fifty?" B: "That’s two hundred. But who’s counting when you’re in love?"
For those looking to produce these, remember that the Dramatists Guild offers great resources for playwrights and performers.
Since we've hit 200, would you like to select one for me to expand into a full-length script
The "Absurd & Playful" (161–170)
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Moving into the "Old Souls," "Digital Dilemmas," and "Kitchen Counter Conversations" (201–250). We’re diving deeper into the texture of intimacy—the stuff that happens when the candles have burned out but the conversation hasn't.
The "Digital Age" (201–210)
The Shared Calendar: A: "You booked 'Cuddle Time' for 8 PM?" B: "If it’s not in the Google Doc, it doesn't happen."
The Unfollowed Ex: A: "I did it. I hit 'Unfollow'." B: "Welcome back to the present. I've missed you."
The Voice Note: A: "Why do you send me 5-minute voice notes?" B: "Because my thumbs are tired but my heart is chatty."
The Bad Connection: A: "You’re breaking up." B: "Not in real life, I hope." A: "Never."
The Selfie: A: "One more, I blinked." B: "You’re cute when you blink. Let’s keep it."
The Battery: A: "I'm at 3 percent." B: "Quick, tell me you love me before the light dies!"
The Algorithm: A: "My TikTok is showing me engagement rings." B: "That’s weird. (Quickly hiding phone) Mine is showing me honeymoon spots."
The Tag: A: "You tagged me in a photo where I’m eating a taco." B: "It’s the most 'you' you’ve ever been."
The Group Chat 2: A: "Your mom added me to the family thread." B: "There’s no escape now. You’re one of us."
The Playlist 2: A: "Is this a breakup song?" B: "No, it’s a 'thank god we survived that' song."
The "Mid-Life Magic" (211–220)
The Back Pain: A: "I think I threw my back out sneezing." B: "We’re officially old. I’ll get the heating pad."
The Grocery Store: A: "We’ve been in the cheese aisle for twenty minutes." B: "It’s a big decision, Dave."
The Travel Brochure: A: "Italy or the couch?" B: "Italy. But only if the couch comes with us."
The Grey Beard: A: "You’re getting some salt in that pepper." B: "As long as you’re still the spice."
The Old Waltz: A: "I forgot the steps." B: "Just lean on me. I’m the one who knows where we’re going."
The Reading Glasses: A: "Where are mine?" B: "On top of your head. Where they’ve been for an hour."
The Silence 2: A: "It's quiet since the kids left." B: "Good. Now I can finally hear what you’re thinking."
The Garden: A: "The tomatoes died." B: "That’s okay. We’re still blooming."
The Renovation: A: "I hate this wallpaper." B: "Me too. Let’s rip it down and start over. Everything."
The Evening Walk: A: "We’re slower than we used to be." B: "More time to see the flowers."
The "Comedic Conflict" (221–230)
The Bug 3: A: "It’s a wasp!" B: "I’ll handle it. (Seconds later) Okay, the wasp owns the bedroom now."
The Map 4: A: "You said 'North'!" B: "I meant 'the other North'!"
The Gift 3: A: "You got me... a potato?" B: "It’s a heart-shaped potato! It’s rare!"
The Snore 4: A: "I wore earplugs and I could still hear you." B: "That’s just the sound of my soul purring."
The Thermostat 2: A: "It’s freezing." B: "I’m hot." A: "This is why people get divorced." B: "Come here and use me as a blanket."
The Last Cookie 2: A: "I saw you eat it." B: "It was a hallucination. I’m a victim of hunger."
The Laundry 2: A: "My white shirt is pink." B: "Now you look like a sunset. You’re welcome."
The Directions: A: "Stop the car. I’m asking for directions." B: "Never! My ancestors found new continents without GPS!"
The Movie 2: A: "You’re sleeping." B: "I’m just watching with my eyes closed."
The Morning Breath: A: "Don't kiss me yet." B: "I don't care. I love your morning swamp breath."
The "High Stakes & Heart" (231–240)
The Rainy Platform: A: "The train is here." B: "Five more seconds. Please."
The Letter 2: A: "I found this in your drawer. You never sent it." B: "I was scared you’d say no."
The Hospital 2: A: "The doctor said—" B: "I don't care what he said. I’m not leaving this chair."
The Job Offer: A: "It’s in London." B: "Pack your bags. I’ve always wanted to see the rain there."
The Fight 2: A: "I can't do this anymore!" B: "Good. Let's do something else. Together."
The Secret 4: A: "I’m not who you think I am." B: "I know exactly who you are. You’re the person who stays."
The Rain 4: A: "We’re shivering." B: "At least we’re shivering together."
The Reunion 2: A: "Ten years is a long time." B: "It took ten years to realize I’m an idiot for leaving."
The Apology 3: A: "I’m sorry for what I said when I was hungry." B: "Apology accepted. Let’s get pizza."
The Cliff: A: "It’s a long way down." B: "Don't look down. Look at me. I’ve got you."
The "Final Fifty Kickoff" (241–250)
The Window 2: A: "The snow is beautiful." B: "It looks like the world started over."
The Coffee 2: A: "You made it just the way I like." B: "I’ve had a lot of practice."
The Mirror 5: A: "I’m losing my hair." B: "More room for me to kiss your forehead."
The Key 4: A: "I locked us out." B: "The stars are out. Let’s just stay here for a while."
The Song 2: A: "Hum it for me." B: "I don't know the words." A: "Just the tune. It's enough."
The Bookmark 2: A: "You’re ahead of me." B: "I’ll wait for you at the next chapter."
The Taxi 3: A: "Step on it!" B: "Sir, this is a bike." A: "Then pedal faster! Love is waiting!"
The Nightlight: A: "Leave it on." B: "Why? I'm right here." A: "I want to be able to see you if I wake up."
The First Sight 2: A: "I knew the moment I saw you." B: "Liar. You thought I was a waitress." A: "A very beautiful waitress."
The Halfway Mark: A: "We’ve done 250." B: "Only 250? We’re just getting warmed up."
For further writing exercises, the National New Play Network has incredible archives of modern drama.
Here are the next 50 short plays (251–300), leaning into the "Cinematic Classics," "Domestic Quirks," and "The Long Goodbye" themes.
The "Cinematic Tropes" (251–260)
The Rain Chase: A: "Wait! You forgot your heart!" B: "Keep it! It's too heavy to carry in this weather!"
The Wrong Plane: A: "This isn't Paris." B: "I know. But you're here, so it's close enough."
The Slow Dance: (In a silent room) A: "There's no music." B: "My heart is doing 120 beats per minute. Use that."
The Dramatic Pause: A: "I have to tell you something." (Long silence). B: "If it's about the car, I already know." A: "I love you." B: "Oh. That's better."
The Rooftop: A: "The city looks like a toy." B: "And you look like the person who owns it all."
The Note on the Mirror: A: "You used lipstick?" B: "It was the only thing I could find that was as bright as I felt."
The Library Ladder: A: "Careful, it's high." B: "I've been falling for you for years; what's ten more feet?"
The Mistaken Identity: A: "I'm not the hero you're looking for." B: "Good. I prefer the villain who stays for breakfast."
The Train Whistle: A: "That's my cue." B: "The train can wait. The world can't."
The Grand Gesture: A: "You bought me a star?" B: "Well, I couldn't find a way to wrap the moon."
The "Cozy Chaos" (261–270)
The Blanket Tug: A: "You're doing it again." B: "I'm not hogging it, I'm 'securing the perimeter'."
The Burnt Popcorn: A: "The movie hasn't even started." B: "At least the fire alarm is romantic?"
The Midnight Snack 2: A: "Is that the expensive cheese?" B: "It was."
The Cold Hands: A: "Get those away from me!" B: "I'm just looking for a little human warmth."
The IKEA Manual 2: A: "Why are there three screws left?" B: "They're... spares for the next life."
The Pajama Party: A: "We look ridiculous." B: "Yes, but we look ridiculous together."
The Tea Ceremony: A: "You forgot the honey." B: "I thought my presence was enough." A: "Get the honey."
The Morning Yoga: A: "I'm stuck." B: "Is this a metaphor or do I need to call an ambulance?"
The Book Club: A: "Did you read the book?" B: "No, I just came for the wine and your face."
The Garden Hose: A: "You sprayed me!" B: "You looked like you needed to grow!"
The "Grown-Up Love" (271–280)
The Mortgage: A: "It's a lot of zeros." B: "Yeah, but it's our zeros."
The Gray Beard 2: A: "I’m going bald." B: "I didn't fall in love with your hair, I fell in love with what's under it."
The Retirement Home: A: "Which room is ours?" B: "The one with the loudest laughter."
The Old Photo: A: "Look how young we were." B: "We were just kids playing house. Now we're experts."
The Prescription: A: "Did you take your pills?" B: "I took my 'I love you' dose. Is that enough?"
The Grandkids: A: "They have your eyes." B: "And your stubbornness. God help us."
The Anniversary 2: A: "Fifty years." B: "Feels like twenty minutes. Under water."
The Hearing Aid: A: "What?" B: "I said I love you!" A: "I heard you the first time. I just wanted to hear it twice."
The Walking Stick: A: "Lean on me." B: "I've been doing that since 1974."
The Sunset 3: A: "The colors are fading." B: "No, they're just getting ready for tomorrow."
The "Modern Malfunctions" (281–290)
The Autocorrect 2: A: "You sent me a 'death' emoji." B: "I meant 'heart'! My thumb slipped!"
The Zoom Date: A: "You're on mute." B: "I'm just practicing my silent movie acting for you."
The Delivery App: A: "Thai or Tacos?" B: "Both. It's a 'Treat Yourself' Tuesday."
The Netflix Queue: A: "We've been scrolling for an hour." B: "This is the relationship. This is it."
The Battery 2: A: "I lost the charger." B: "It's okay. We'll talk to each other like it's the 90s."
The Instagram Bio: A: "Why am I not in your bio?" B: "Because you're in my soul, not my metadata."
The Smart Home: A: "Alexa, tell him he's annoying." B: "Alexa, order her flowers."
The GPS 2: A: "Recalculating..." B: "Even the car knows we're lost."
The FaceID: A: "It won't recognize me." B: "That's because you're smiling too much."
The Cloud: A: "Our photos are in the cloud." B: "I hope the angels like our vacation pictures."
The "Deepening the Bond" (291–300)
The Shared Secret: A: "I never told anyone." B: "It's safe with me. I've got a vault for a heart."
The First Fight 2: A: "I'm sorry I yelled." B: "I'm sorry I was yell-able."
The Kitchen Counter: A: "Sit. I'll cook." B: "I'm just here for the chef."
The Anchor 2: A: "I'm drowning." B: "I'm a life vest. Breathe."
The Mirror 6: A: "Do I look okay?" B: "You look like my favorite person. Always."
The Key 5: A: "I'm giving you my spare." B: "I'll never use it. I'll always knock so you can welcome me."
The Song 3: A: "This is our song." B: "It's a heavy metal track." A: "It represents our intensity."
The Bridge 3: A: "Halfway across." B: "Let's stop here. The view is us."
The Last Word: A: "I love you." B: "I love you more." A: "Don't start a fight you can't win."
The Encore: A: "Is that 300?" B: "It's just the beginning of the next 300."
Would you like me to organize these by cast size or write a full 10-minute script for one
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Moving into The "Secret Languages," The "Last-Minute Saves," and The "Quiet Heavens" (301–350). These scripts focus on the unspoken shorthand and the heavy, beautiful weight of choosing the same person every single morning.
The "Unspoken Shorthand" (301–310)
The Squeeze: A: (Squeezes B's hand three times). B: "I know." A: "How did you know?" B: "Three beats. I. Love. You. I speak your code."
The Look: A: (Staring across a crowded party). B: (Nods toward the exit). A: "Thank God. I thought I was going to have to fake a faint."
The Coffee Order 3: A: "I didn't even ask." B: "You don't have to ask for what's already yours."
The Sigh: A: "That was a 'long day' sigh." B: "It was a 'glad I'm home' sigh. There’s a difference."
The Eyebrow: A: (Raises eyebrow at B’s outfit). B: "It’s a bold choice, I know." A: "I love bold. Let’s go."
The Foot Tap: A: (Tapping under the table). B: "I'm nervous too." A: "How did you feel it?" B: "I'm tuned to your frequency."
The Mirror 7: A: "I can see you smiling in the reflection." B: "Caught me admiring the scenery again."
The Lean: A: (Leans head on B’s shoulder). B: "Heavy?" A: "No. Perfectly weighted."
The Door Handle: A: (Both reach for the door at once). B: "After you." A: "Only if you're right behind me."
The Silence 3: A: "We haven't spoken in an hour." B: "It's the best conversation we've had all week."
The "Last-Minute Saves" (311–320)
The Umbrella 3: A: "It’s a monsoon!" B: "Get under here. My jacket is a backup tent."
The Forgotten Anniversary 2: A: "I forgot." B: "I forgot too. Let's celebrate our mutual amnesia with tacos."
The Burned Roast: A: "Dinner is charcoal." B: "I love charcoal. It’s... earthy. Let’s order pizza."
The Flat Tire: A: "We're stuck." B: "We’re not stuck. We’re on a surprise camping trip in the breakdown lane."
The Misplaced Ring: A: "I can't find it!" B: "The ring is metal. My promise isn't. Take a deep breath."
The Wrong Address: A: "This isn't the party." B: "It's a quiet park. Better music, too."
The Spilled Wine: A: "Your white rug!" B: "It was too white anyway. Now it has character. Like us."
The Alarm 3: A: "We missed the flight!" B: "Good. One more day in bed."
The Low Fuel: A: "The light is on." B: "We’ll coast on love. And maybe that gas station two miles back."
The Public Speech: A: "I'm going to throw up." B: "Look at me the whole time. Just me. The rest of them are ghosts."
The "Aged Like Wine" (321–330)
The Attic: A: "Look at these old letters." B: "I was so dramatic back then." A: "You still are. That’s why I stayed."
The Dance 2: A: "My knees creak." B: "That's just the percussion section of the band."
The Garden 2: A: "The roses came back." B: "They knew we weren't giving up on them."
The Old Waltz 2: A: "You’re stepping on my toes." B: "At least you can still feel them."
The Reading Glasses 2: A: "Can you read this label?" B: "'Best used before 1998.' Like our first car."
The Morning Porch: A: "The birds are loud." B: "They’re cheering for us. We made it to another sunrise."
The Hand Hold 2: A: "Your skin is like paper." B: "Store your best memories on it."
The Nap: A: "Did I sleep long?" B: "Only an hour. I watched you the whole time. You still look like the girl I met."
The Inheritance: A: "I don't have much to leave behind." B: "You’re leaving me with a full heart. That’s a fortune."
The Final Sunset: A: "It’s getting dark." B: "I’m right here. I’m not letting go."
The "Whimsical & Weird" (331–340)
The Time Machine 2: A: "If we go back, do we change anything?" B: "Maybe the haircut you had in '92, but that’s it."
The Cloud Shapes: A: "That one looks like a heart." B: "Looks like a baked potato to me." A: "That’s why we work."
The Superhero 3: A: "What’s my name?" B: "Captain Sarcasm." A: "And you’re The Incredible Enabler."
The Parallel Universe 3: A: "In that world, I'm a billionaire." B: "In that world, I'm still the one spending your money."
The Telepathy: A: "I'm thinking of a number." B: "Seven." A: "Stop doing that. It’s creepy."
The Body Swap 2: A: "Being you is exhausting." B: "Try being me and loving you. It’s a full-time job."
The Ghost 3: A: "I'll haunt your favorite book." B: "I'll never finish the ending, so you have to stay."
The Alien 2: A: "Earth is weird." B: "It’s better with a tour guide. Me. I’m the guide."
The Puppet: A: "I feel like someone's pulling my strings." B: "That’s just me pulling you closer."
The Fortune Teller: A: "I see a tall, dark stranger." B: "That’s the mailman. Look closer." A: "Oh, I see a lifetime of tea and toast."
The "Rapid Fire Finale" (341–350)
The Key 6: A: "I’m home!" B: "I know. The house finally feels like it's standing up straight again."
The First Move 2: A: "You called me first." B: "I was checking if you got home safe!" A: "It was 2:00 PM."
The Rain 5: A: "Let's run for it." B: "Let's walk. I want to enjoy the splash."
The Photo 2: A: "I look tired." B: "You look like you've been loved. There's a glow in the tired."
The Midnight 2: A: "Are you awake?" B: "I am now. What’s up?" A: "I just wanted to make sure you were real."
The Map 5: A: "Turn left at the old oak tree." B: "That tree was cut down in 2004." A: "Well, turn where it used to be."
The Heartbeat 2: A: "Thump-thump. Thump-thump." B: "Is that me or you?" A: "It’s us. We’re in sync."
The Song 4: A: "Sing to me." B: "I'm tone-deaf." A: "Perfect. I won't feel intimidated."
The Last Cookie 3: A: "We'll split it." B: "The big half for you." A: "That’s how I know it’s real."
The Bridge 4: A: "Are we there yet?" B: "The destination is the walk, honey. We’re already there."
