Nine short new plays, all written to be performed in a garden, will get just that starting tonight in the Shaw Mansion garden in New London.

The production, titled "Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang (The Garden Showcase)," is from TalkStory Theater Company, a new troupe based in southeastern Connecticut.

Founder and artistic director Darcy Parker Bruce, a playwright from Norwich, says the notion for the showcase began during the endless winter.

"We were cold and tired and done with the darkness," she says. "Our minds went straight to the idea of sun and warmth and flowers and the beautiful way that dusk falls, when the air seems thick with magic. And so the call went out: Give us your best story, set it in the garden, and give us a reason to bring it forward."

After receiving more than 100 submissions, TalkStory selected the final nine: "Beyond the Garden Gate" by Anna Maria Trusky, "Cursed" by Chris Graybill, "Garden of Giants" by Hilary King, "Better to See You" by Laura Natusch, "Death Angel" by Abby Lorenz, "Brunette Cravings" by Catherine Weingarten, "Boy Minotaur" by Kato McNickle, "Paddy McClintlock" by Richard Ballon, and "East of the Sun" by Darcy Parker Bruce.

The pieces offer a whole range of theatrical experiences, since they include drama and comedy, fantasy and fable, with characters even including minotaurs, giants and dark angels.

Glenn Shea begins the evening with a poetry reading.

This is TalkStory's third production, following previous performances at the Hygienic Art Park and inside the Shaw Mansion.

- KRISTINA DORSEY

"Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang (The Garden Showcase)," 7 tonight-Sat., garden of the Shaw Mansion, 11 Blinman St., New London; seating on lawn, bring blanket or chair; $10; (860) 949-1995.