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What is it with 17-year-old playwrights this season? After Ruby Rae Spiegel wowed me with her one-act as part of the Festival of New American Play's "Summer Shorts 5: Series A," high schooler Sofia Johnson has written another intriguing and deeply honest work about teenage peer pressure and relationships. Sensitively directed by Anna Foss Wilson and brilliantly acted by a five-person cast, the production approaches teenagers on their level and provides keen insight.

What makes Johnson's drama so intriguing is that she doesn't shy away from controversial issues and ideas that might shock parents. Nicole and Natasha are twin sisters who are total opposites. When Natasha kills herself, Nicole must come to terms with her goals and relationships. Although Johnson's characters are a tad stereotypical—the overachiever and the rebel—she gives them an honest voice. Alexandra Jennings lights up the stage as go-getter Nicole, and her grief at her twin sister's suicide is palpable. The production could almost be Jennings' one-woman show, as she captivates in stream-of-consciousness style throughout. Juliette Monaco provides a nice foil as her twin Natasha, and their connection feels very real.

Johnson brings high school drama alive on stage without making it seem catty, and although the work has its flaws, she is a promising young playwright.

Presented by Kelfia Productions at the IATI Theater, 64 E. Fourth St., NYC. Aug. 13–21. Remaining performances: Fri., Aug. 19, 2 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 21, noon; Fri., Aug. 26, 7 p.m.; Sun., Aug. 28, 3:15 p.m. (866) 468-7619 or www.fringenyc.org.