Friday, January 17, 2025

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.


Thursday, January 16, 2025

Welcome

Hello. Thank you for stopping by. I'm happy you're here.

My name is Wren Valentino. I'm an author, film producer, voice actor, and writing workshop instructor. I write in multiple genres, primarily romance, thriller, young adult, and horror. I'm also a playwright, poet, and screnwriter. 

If you're writer looking for a great community to be a part of, I invite you to Workshops with Wren, a series of virtual workshops I teach for writers of all levels of experiences, genres, and forms. Everyone is welcome. 

As a voice actor, my voice can be heard in twenty-one horror films. Check out the Acting section for more info. 

If you'd like to learn more about me and my life, the About section offers more details. 

The Links page is a great list of writing resources and links to the individual webpages of the members of my collective creative team. There, you will also find links to places you can connect with me online, as well as where you can read some of my work.

Visit Fantastic Classics for film reviews I write about classic films of all eras and all genres.

All of my titles are published by Blue Dasher Press

My most recent project is a short story about coping with grief titled Just Forget the World.

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

Please send all professional inquiries via the contact form. A member of my creative team will be happy to help you. 

Again, thank you for being here. As always, thank you for your support!💙

Tuesday, January 14, 2025

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!

Blue Dasher Press


Tuesday, January 7, 2025

January Update: New Beginnings & Exciting Projects!

Happy New Year, everyone! I hope your January is off to a great start. I'm kicking things off with lots of exciting news and a few little moments that have been keeping me smiling. Here’s the latest update on my world!

A Fabulous Brunch & 35 Years of Friendship

I started the year on a high note with a wonderful brunch at the Tower Café in Sacramento, where I had the pleasure of catching up with my bestie, Mindy. We’ve been friends for 35 years (can you believe it?), and we celebrated our lifelong bond over delicious food and plenty of laughs. It’s so special to have someone who’s been there through thick and thin. Cheers to many more years of friendship!

Exciting New Chapter: QueeRomance Ink

I’m thrilled to announce that I’m now a proud member of QueeRomance Ink! This is such an exciting step for me, and I can’t wait to share my m/m romance titles with their amazing community. If you’re a fan of heartfelt stories, steamy moments, and diverse characters, keep an eye out for my work on their site very soon!

Loving the House of Hammer Podcast & Kathy Bates

If you're a horror fan like me, you'll understand why I’m absolutely obsessed with The House of Hammer podcast. As a longtime admirer of Hammer Horror films, this podcast is a dream come true. Each episode digs into the fascinating world of these iconic movies, and I can’t get enough of it.

On a slightly different note, have you been watching Matlock? The new TV series with Kathy Bates is a total treat. She brings such depth to her character, and the show has been so enjoyable to watch. It’s good stuff, for sure!

Reality TV Obsession: The Traitors

Let’s talk about The Traitors, shall we? I just wrapped up the first season, and let me tell you—I am hooked! If you haven’t watched yet, get on it. The strategy, the twists, and the drama are next level. This reality show is a game-changer.

Cozy Mystery Fun

For anyone who loves a good cozy mystery (count me in!), I highly recommend The Madame Blanc Mysteries, available on Acorn TV. It’s a delightful and charming series with plenty of intrigue, and it’s been a perfect watch for these chilly January days.

Voice Acting: New Projects & Home Studio Vibes

I’ve been hitting the ground running this year with voice acting, and I’m thrilled to share that I’ve just recorded my voice-over for the upcoming horror film Venus DIE-Trap. It’s so exciting to see everything coming together. Plus, I finally got my home studio set up, and let me tell you, it makes a huge difference in my recording process. I'm so ready to dive into more projects this year!

Family Moments & New Furry Friend

A quick family moment that melted my heart: my sweet niece recently swiped my mom’s cell phone and took the cutest selfie—her very first one! Too adorable for words. 💖

We also have a new furry friend in the family! A stray Siamese cat has been hanging out in our backyard, and we’ve been taking care of him with food, water, and a cozy little bed. We’ve named him Tango, and he’s already becoming quite the charmer. I have a feeling it won’t be long before he makes himself at home indoors!

Music Love: Be Your Own Pet’s Mommy

In the music world, my favorite album of 2024 was Mommy by the incredible band Be Your Own Pet. The album is edgy, raw, and full of energy—it’s been on repeat in my playlist.

Family Lunches & Good Times

We also had a delightful family lunch at The Cheesecake Factory recently. The food was amazing, but the best part was just enjoying the time together. Good company really makes all the difference!

New Projects & Upcoming Releases

And finally, I’ve been busy working on a ton of new projects! Here’s what’s coming up:
  • New short story: Just Forget the World will be available in a Kindle Unlimited edition on January 14.
  • Halloween-themed short story: Bells and Spells, which was postponed from October (my fault!), will be available on January 21 in a Kindle Unlimited edition.
  • New stage play: Homecomings will be released on January 28 by Blue Dasher Press. This one-act play had its world premiere last year in Colorado Springs as part of The Play Crawl at the Funky Little Theater Company, and I’m excited to share it with a broader audience.
  • Other projects: I’m also working on a horror screenplay called Executive, a new stage play titled The Burlesque Club, a novel called Motel Queen, a short story called Left Unsaid, and a few new poems. 
  • Check out my new film reviews at Fantastic Classics.
There’s always something cooking, and I can’t wait to share more with you soon!

Wishing You a Wonderful January

I hope you’re all having a safe, healthy, and joyous January! Whether you’re starting fresh with new goals, cozying up with a good mystery, or just enjoying the little things, I hope this month brings you lots of happiness.

Here’s to an amazing year ahead!

With love and gratitude,
Wren

Thursday, December 19, 2024

Happy Holidays from Wren!

As the year draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey of 2024 and express my heartfelt gratitude to all of you—my readers, supporters, and everyone who has been part of this creative adventure. It’s been a year full of growth, new opportunities, and unexpected joys, and I couldn’t have done it without you!

This year, I’ve had the privilege of creating and sharing a variety of new works. I wrote numerous stage plays, short stories, and novels that I’m incredibly proud of, each one an exploration of new ideas and fresh storytelling. As a voice actor, I had the honor of lending my voice to twenty-one horror films, each project an exciting challenge and an opportunity to connect with new audiences in thrilling ways. It’s been a year of pushing boundaries and embracing creativity, and I’m grateful to everyone who has been part of this artistic journey.

Looking ahead to 2025, I am thrilled to share something new with you all: Workshops with Wren. These virtual writing workshops will be designed for writers at all stages of their craft—whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills in any genre or form. I’ve always been passionate about teaching and sharing the craft of writing, and I can’t wait to connect with you all in this new format. I believe there’s a special power in coming together as writers, and I look forward to helping each of you discover, develop, and elevate your unique voice.

There are also many exciting projects in the works for the coming year! In addition to the workshops, I’m working on several new novels and a collection of poetry titled Walking in the Underground. This collection will be a deeply personal exploration of themes like identity, isolation, and resilience, and I’m eager to share it with you all when the time comes.

As we approach the holiday season, I want to extend my deepest thanks to each of you for your unwavering support. Whether you’ve read my books, attended a workshop, or simply followed my journey, you’ve made this year one to remember. I hope your holidays are filled with peace, joy, and time spent with loved ones.

Here’s to a new year full of creativity, connection, and even more exciting stories. Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Wishing you all a very happy holiday season and a bright, inspiring 2025!

With warmth and gratitude,  

Wren