The Guide — Theater Listings 02.24.12

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Updated: February 23, 2012 3:43PM

OPENING

ABSOLUTE HELL. Gift Theatre presents the U.S. premiere of Rodney Ackland’s play, which takes place one month after World War II has ended. Directed by Sheldon Patinkin. Previews March 1-2, 4, 7:30 pm. Opens March 5, 7:30 pm. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 2:30 pm. $20-$30. To April 29. Gift Theatre, 4802 N. Milwaukee. (773) 283-7071; thegifttheatre.org.

ALWAYS... PATSY CLINE. Theatre at the Center presents the musical based on the true story of country legend Patsy Cline and her most devoted fan. Directed by Brian Russell. Preview Feb. 23, 2 pm. Opens Feb. 26, 2 pm. Wed-Thu, 2 pm; Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 2:30 pm. $38-$42. To April 1. Theatre At the Center, 1040 Ridge Rd., Munster, Ind. (219) 836-3255; TheatreAtTheCenter.com.

THE CONVERT. Playwright Danai Gurira returns to Chicago with the first in a new cycle about Zimbabwe and the Zimbabwean identity. Directed by Emily Mann. Previews Feb. 5-March 4. Opens March 5. Tue-Thu, 7:30 pm; Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 2 pm. $12-$42. To March 25. Goodman’s Owen Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn. (773) 443-3800; GoodmanTheatre.org.

DIARY OF A MADMAN. Prop Thtr kicks off its 31st season with the play based on Gogol’s short story about a Russian civil servant tormented by his humble position and suffers from ever-increasing delusions of grandeur. Directed by Rush Pearson. Opens Feb. 17. Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun 3 pm. $15 or pay-what-you-can. To March 25. Prop Thtr, 3502 N. Elston. (773) 539-7838; propthtr.org.

DOUBLEWIDE LUST. The Annoyance’s latest production is a Shakespearean dramedy of trailer park proportions. Directed by Justin Howard. Opens Feb. 24, 8 pm. Fri, 8 pm. $10-$15. To March 30. Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. (773) 561-4665; theannoyance.com.

FML: HOW CARSON MCCULLERS SAVED MY LIFE. Steppenwolf For Young Adults presents a world premiere by Chicago playwright Sarah Gibbons. Directed by Joanie Schultz. Opens Feb. 28. Dates and times vary. $10-$20. To March 18. Steppenwolf’s Downstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted. (773) 335-1650; steppenwolf.org.

F***ING A. Urbantheater presents the Midwest premiere of Pulitzer Prize winner Suzan-Lori Parks’ controversial play about an abortionist in a post-apocalypic world. Directed by Richard Perez. Previews Feb. 27-March 1, $20/two-for-one, $15/single. Opens March 2, 7:30 pm. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm. $10-$20. To March 31. Wicker Park Art Center, 2215 W. North. (312) 239-8783; UrbanTheaterChicago.org.

FULTON STREET SESSIONS. Tuta Theatre Chicago opens its 10th anniversary season with a world premiere, cabaret-style production. Directed byZeljko Djukic. Opens Feb. 24, 8 pm. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $30. To March 25. Chicago Dramatists, 1105 W. Chicago. (773) 217-0691; tutato.com.

IN THE HEART OF AMERICA. Theatre Seven of Chicago presents Naomi Wallace’s 1994 political dream play about the shattering effects of war and the search for hope amid violence. Directed by Brian Golden. Opens Feb. 27, 7:30 pm. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 2:30 pm. $$. To April 1. Greenhouse Theater Center Upstairs Studio, 2257 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-7336; theatreseven.org.

IT’S THE BEST WE COULD DO. Chicago’s bulesque-parody sketch comedy troupe Off Off Broadzway presents a “best of” performance featuring original classics and new favorites. One Night Only, Feb. 25, 8 pm. $20. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont. (773) 327-5252; stage773.com.

THE LARAMIE PROJECT: TEN YEARS LATER. Redtwist Theatre presents the Chicago production. Directed by Greg Kolack. Previews March 1-3, $15. Opens March 4, 3 pm. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $20-$27. To April 7. Redtwist Theatre, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr. (773) 728-7529; redtwist.org.

LAS HERMANAS PADILLA. Chicago Fusion Theatre, in association with DCA Theater, presents the Chicago premiere of Tony Meneses’ story of sisterhood in a time of war. Directed by Juan Castaneda. Preview Feb. 29, $15. Opens March 1, 7:30 pm. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $15-$25. To April 1. DCA Storefront Theater, 66 E. Randolph. Phone number; dcatheater.org.

THE NORTH PLAN. Theater Wit presents the local premiere of Jason Wells’ comedy described as a mashup of All the President’s Men and a Quentin Tarantino movie. Directed by Kimberly Senior. Previews Feb. 24-26, $18. Opens Feb. 28, 7 pm. Thu-Sat, 8pm; Sun, 3 pm.$18-$36. To April 1. Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. (773) 975-8150; TheaterWit.org.

THE PETRIFIED FOREST. Strawdog Theatre presents a new take on the American classic that was the basis of the film that launched Humphrey Bogart to stardom. Directed by Shade Murray. Previews Feb. 24, $15. Opens Feb. 26, 4 pm. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 4 pm;. $10-$28. To March 31. Strawdog Theatre, 3829 N. Broadway. (866) 811-4111; strawdog.org.

THE PRICE. Raven Theatre presents Arthur Miller’s drama about two estranged brothers who must sort through their deceased parents’ belongings. Directed by Michael Menendian. Previews Feb. 28-March 3 $20. Opens March 4, 7 pm, $40. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $30. To when. Raven Theatre’s East Stage, 6157 N. Clark. (773) 338-2177; raventheatre.com.

WE HAVE ALWAYS LIVED IN A CASTLE. City Lit Theater presents a world premiere adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s final novel. Directed by Paul Edwards. Previews Feb. 24-26, $18. Opens March 2, 7 pm. Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. Additional performances March 22, 29, 8 pm. $$. To April 1. City Lit Theater, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr. (773) 293-3682; citylit.org.

ONGOING

ACCIDENTAL RAPTURE. 16th Street Theatre presents Eric Pfeffinger’s comedy about old friends and a religious awakening. Fri, 7:30 pm; closes Sat, 5, 8:30 pm. $18. Berwyn Cultural Center, 6420 16th, Berwyn. (708) 795-6704; 16thstreettheater.org.

AMERIVILLE. Victory Gardens Theater presents performance ensemble Universes’ exploration of the American experience featuring hip-hop, song, poetry and dance. Directed by Chay Yew. Tue, Thu-Fri, 7:30 pm; Sat, 4, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3 pm. Additional performance Feb. 22, 7:30 pm; $20-$50. To Feb. 26. Victory Gardens Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln. (773)871-3000. (Highly recommended, Hedy Weiss)

ANDROCLES AND THE LION. ShawChicago presents George Bernard Shaw’s comedy. Sat-Sun, 2 pm; closes Mon, 7 pm. $25. Ruth Page Center, 1016 N. Dearborn. (312) 587-7390.

ATTACK OF THE 50 FT FEATURE. Gorilla Tango Theatre presents a sketch comedy show. Directed by C.J. Tuor. Tue, 7:30 pm. $12. To April 10. Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. (773) 598-4549; gorillatango.com.

BACHELORETTE. Profiles Theatre presents Leslye Headland’s dark comedy about bachelorette parties. Directed by Darrell W. Cox. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 7 pm. $35-$40. To March 11. Profiles Theatre, 4147 N. Broadway. (773) 549-1815. (Somewhat recommended, Weiss)

THE BEST OF THE SECOND CITY. The Second City’s stars of tomorrow perform work originally written by past alumni, including Bill Murray, Tina Fey and Steve Carell. Sat, 4 pm; Mon, 8 pm. $19. Open run. The Second City e.t.c. Theatre, 1608 N. Wells. (312) 337-3992.

BLUE MAN GROUP. The show’s creators have cleverly updated the production with new wizardry while retaining its essential mind-set. Days and times vary. $49-$69. Open run. Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted. (800) 982-2787. (Recommended, Weiss)

THE CARETAKER. Writers’ Theatre presents Harold Pinter’s drama about a tramp who becomes involved with two brothers and their grand plans. Directed by Ron OJ Parsons. Tue-Wed, 7:30 pm; Thu-Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 4, 8 pm; Sun, 2, 6 pm. Additional matinee Feb. 29, March 21. No evening performance March 4, 25. $35-$65. To March 25. Writers’ Theatre, 664 Vernon, Glencoe. (847) 242-6000. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

A CATERED AFFAIR. Porchlight Music Theatre presents the Chicago premiere of John Bucchino and Harvey Fierstein’s musical based on the Bette Davis film about a couple who must decide whether to spend their savings on a new business or their daughter’s wedding. Directed by Nick Bowling. Fri, 7:30 pm; Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 2 pm. $38; group and student discounts available. To April 1. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont. (773) 327-5252; porchlightmusictheatre.org. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

CHESTER AND THE UNBEARABLE BURDEN, PARTS I AND II. Six Hours Short Productions presents Ben M. Fort’s comedy about a young wizard caught up in mysterious happenings. Directed by Fort. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $10, $15. To March 6. Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. (773) 935-6860.

CLUTTER. MadKap Productions presents Mark Saltzman’s play based on the true story of the Collyer brothers who became hoarders in their Fifith Ave. mansion in 1920s Harlem. Directed by Wayne Mell. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 2:30 pm. $40. To March 11. Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-7336. (Somewhat recommended, Weiss)

CO-ED PRISON SLUTS. Annoyance Theatre presents the musical about the inane residents of a prison. Directed by Mick Napier. Sat, 10:01 pm. $20. Open run. Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. (773) 561-4665.

CROSSED. Teatro Luna presents a show dedicated to issues of immigration. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3, 6 pm. $20. To March 18. Luna Central, 3912 N. Clark. (773) 819-5862.

DARK PLAY OR STORIES FOR BOYS. Collaboraction presents Carlo Murillo’s drama about a teenage boy’s foray into the digital world. Directed by Anthony Moseley. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 7 pm. Additional performance Feb. 20, 8 pm. Performance on Feb. 26 is at 3 pm. $15-$25. To March 11. Collaboraction, Flat Iron Fine Arts Building, 1579 N. Milwaukee. (312) 226-9633. (Recommended, Weiss)

DATING WALTER DANTE. Raven Theatre presents Jon Steinhagen’s comedy about a woman who shocks her friend when she begins dating a suspected murderer. Directed by Cody Estle. Fri-Sat, 8:30 pm; Sun, 3:30 pm. $30. To March 24. Raven Theatre, 6157 N. Clark. (773) 338-2177.

DEATH AND HARRY HOUDINI. The House Theatre of Chicago presents Dennis Watkins’ play with magic about history’s greatest magician. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 7 pm. $25. To March 11. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division. (773) 769-3832. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

DEVILS DON’T FORGET. The Mammals Theatre presents Bob Fisher’s play about an amnesiac who is convinced he was an accessory to some unspeakable crime. Directed by Fisher. Fri, 10 pm; closes Sat, 10 pm. $20. Zoo Studios, 4001 N. Ravenswood. (866) 593-4614.

DISGRACED. American Theater Company presents Ayad Akhtar’s drama about a Muslin-American lawyer who falls victim to personal and professional betrayals. Directed by Kimberly Senior. Thu-Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 3, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $35, $40. To March 11. American Theater Company, 1909 W. Byron. (773) 409-4125. (Somewhat recommended, Weiss)

THE DOYLE & DEBBIE SHOW. Lonesome Road Productions, in association with Jim Jensen, present the story of an old-guard country star who tries to revive his career. Tue-Thu, 7:30 pm; Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 5, 8 pm; Sun, 2, 5 pm. $43.50-$49.50. To June 24. Royal George Theatre Cabaret, 1641 N. Halsted. (312) 988-9000. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

THE DRAWER BOY. Filament Theatre and The Den Ensemble present Michael Healey’s play about two World War II veterans whose lives are turned upside down when a young actor visits their farm to gather research for a play. Fri, 7:30 pm; closes Sat, 7:30 pm. $22. To Feb. 25. The Den Theatre, 1333 N. Milwaukee. (773) 270-1660.

EL MARI CHI CHI: A ROBERT RODRIGUEZ BURLESQUE. Gorilla Tango Theatre presents a show featuring Mari, the guitar-plaing mariachi from the film “Desperado.” Sat, 7:30 pm. $20. To March 31. Gorilla Tango Theatre, 1919 N. Milwaukee. (773) 598-4549.

ENRON. TimeLine Theatre presents Lucy Prebble’s comic look at the fall of Enron. Directed by Rachel Rockwell. Wed-Thu, 7:30 pm; Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 4, 8 pm; Sun, 2 pm. $32-$42. To April 15. TimeLine Theatre, 615 W. Wellington. (773) 281-8463. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

THE FEAST: AN INTIMATE TEMPEST. Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents Shakespeare’s magical tale adapted by Jessica Thebus and featuring puppets, animation and original music. Co-directed by Thebus and Frank Maugeri. Wed-Fri, 7:30 pm; Sat, 3, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $35, $45. To March 11. Chicago Shakespeare Theater Navy Pier, Upstairs Theater, 800 E. Grand. (312) 595-5600. (Somewhat recommended, Weiss)

THE FOREIGNER. Provision Theatre presents Larry Shue’s farce about a man who adopts the persona of a foreigner who doesn’t understand English. Directed by Timothy Gregory. Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $10-$30. To March 18. Provision Theater, 1001 W. Roosevelt. (866) 811-4111.

THE GINGERBREAD HOUSE. Red Tape Theatre presents Mark Schultz’s drama about a couple who hatch a plan to trade their children for another chance at happiness. Directed by James D. Palmer. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 2 pm. $25. To March 3. Red Tape Theatre, 621 W. Belmont. (800) 838-3006.

THE GIRL IN THE YELLOW DRESS. Next Theatre presents Craig Higginson’s drama which explores how class, race, identity and language continue to divide us. Directed by Joanie Schultz. Thu, 7:30 pm; Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 4, 8 pm; closes Sun, 2 pm. $25-$40. To Feb. 26. Noyes Cultural Arts Center, 927 Noyes, Evanston. (847) 475-1875, ext. 2. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

GYPSY. Drury Lane Theatre presents the classic musical based on the memoirs of burlesque legend Gypsy Rose Lee. Directed by Wiliam Osetek. Wed, 1:30 pm; Thu, 1:30, 8 pm; Fri, 8:30 pm; Sat, 5, 8:30 pm; Sun, 2, 6 pm. $35-$45. To April 1. Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace. (630) 530-0111. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

HE WHO. Steppenwolf Theatre’s Garage Rep presents Theatre Zarko’s staging of puppeteer Michael Montenegro’s play about four women who share the burden of caring for an enormous baby. Directed by Montenegro. Days and times vary. $20; $45 three-play pass. To April 8. Steppenwolf Garage, 1624 N. Halsted. (312) 335-1650.

HESPERIA. Writers’ Theatre presents Randall Colburn’s drama about a woman who leaves a life in adult entertainment to return to her hometown for a new start. Directed by Stuart Carden. Tue-Wed, 7:30 pm; Thu-Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 4, 8 pm; Sun, 2, 6 pm. Additional performance March 14, 2 pm. No evening performance March 18. $45-$65. To March 18. Writers’ Theatre, 325 Tudor, Glencoe. (847) 242-6000. (Recommended, Weiss)

HIT THE WALL. Steppenwolf Theatre’s Garage Rep presents The Inconvenience’s staging of Ike Holter’s look at the birth of the gay rights movement. Directed by Eric Hoff. Days and times vary. $20; $45 three-play pass. To April 8. Steppenwolf Garage, 1624 N. Halsted. (312) 335-1650.

HOME/LAND. Albany Park Theater Project presents a work featuring the true stories of immigrant families who try to stay together and make a better life in the land they now call home. Directed by David Feiner. Fri, 8 pm; closes Sat, 2 pm. $6-$22. Laura Wiley Theater, Eugene Field Park, 5100 N. Ridgeway. (773) 866-0875.

HUNGER. Lifeline Theatre presents Chris Hainsworth’s adaptation of Elise Blackwell’s novel about a Russian botanist who, during the Nazi seige of Leningrad, is charged with protecting a cache of valuable seeds for future generations. Directed by Robert Kauzlaric. Thu-Fri, 7:30 pm; Sat, 4, 8 pm; Sun, 4 pm. $32, $35. To March 25. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood. (773) 761-4477. (Somewhat recommended, Weiss)

THE JACKIE WILSON STORY. Black Ensemble Theater opens its new venue with a staging of the high-energy musical showcasing the rise and fall of legendary performer Jackie Wilson. Directed by Jackie Taylor. Wed-Thu, 7:30 pm; Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 3, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $55, $65. To March 18. Black Ensemble Theater Cultural Center, 4450 N. Clark. (773) 769-4451. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

JACK’S PRECIOUS MOMENT. Will Act for Food presents Samuel D. Hunter’s drama about a man whose family tries to hold together after he is killed in Iraq. Directed by Azar Kazemi. Friday, 8 pm; closes Sat, 8 pm. $20; $1 off with a nonperishable food item. Chemically Imbalanced Theater, 1420 W. Irving Park. willactforfood.com/tix.

JERSEY SHORE: THE MUSICAL. A musical parody of the television show. Fri-Sat, 7:30 pm. $5-$20. To March 31. Studio BE, 3110 N. Sheffield. (773) 248-5900.

JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT. The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences presents the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Time Rice musical. Directed by Matt Raftery. Tue-Sat, 10 am; added performances March 27, 29-30, 12:30 pm. $15. To May 12. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200; MarriottTheatre.com.

KILL ME. WildClaw Theatre presents Scott T. Barsotti’s drama about a woman who awakens from a post-traumatic coma convinced she has lost her ability to die. Directed by Jeff Christian. 7:30 pm. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $20-$25. To March 18. Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport. (773) 935-6860.

THE LARAMIE PROJECT. Redtwist Theatre will conduct staged readings of the play written after the death of gay University of Wyoming student Matthew Shepard. Directed by Greg Kolack. Dates and times vary. $15. To April 7. Redtwist, 1044 W. Bryn Mawr. (773) 728-7529.

LATE NITE CATECHISM. The Royal George Theatre presents Vicki Quade and Maripat Donovan’s comedy about a Catholic nun intent on teaching her own brand of catechism. Directed by Marc Silvia. Thu, Sat, 8 pm. $30. Open run. Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. (312) 988-9000.

LEGALLY BLONDE. Marriott Theatre presents the musical-comedy about a young woman, dumped by her boyfriend, who follows him from sunny California to the halls of Harvard Law School. Directed by Marc Robbin. Wed, 1, 8 pm; Thu-Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 4:30, 8 pm; Sun, 1, 5 pm. $40-$48. Dinner packages available. To March 25. Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott, Lincolnshire. (847) 634-0200. (Recommended, Weiss)

THE LEGEND OF BUSTER NEAL. eta Theatre presents Jackie Alexander’s drama about a 1960s activist who attempts to keep his grandson from a live on the streets. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3, 7 pm. $20-$30. To March 4. eta Creative Arts Foundation, 7558 S. South Chicago. (773) 752-3955.

LOVE AND MONEY. Steep Theatre presents Dennis Kelly’s morality tale about debt, the high price of living and the stuff we buy to fill up our world. Directed by Robin Witt. Fri, 8 pm; closes Sat, 8 pm. $22-$25. Steep Theatre, 1115 W. Berwyn. (866) 811-4111. (Recommended, Weiss)

MAN BOOBS. Pride Film and Plays presents J. Julian Christopher’s dark comedy about love, body image and acceptance. Directed by David Zaks. Fri-Sat, 7:30 pm. Additional performance March 8, 7:30 pm. $15. To March. 10. Mary’s Attic, 5400 N. Clark. (800) 838-3006.

MEGACOSM. A Red Orchid Theatre presents Brett Neveu’s drama about an industrialist who uses every means possible to get an inventor to sign over his revolutionary creation. Directed by Dado. Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun 3 pm. Through March 11. $25, $30. A Red Orchid Theatre, 1531 N. Wells. (312) 943-8722. (Recommended, Weiss)

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM. Chicago Shakespeare Theater presents Shakespeare’s comedy about young love. Directed by Gary Griffin. 7:30 pm. Tue-Fri, 7:30 pm; Sat, 3, 8 pm; Sun, 2, 6 pm. $44-$75. To April 8. Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier, 800 E. Grand. (312) 595-5600. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET. Dee Gee Theatricals presents a new musical inspired by a 1956 recording session that brought together four legends — Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. Co-directed by Eric Schaeffer and Floyd Mutrux. Wed, 2, 7:30 pm; Thu, 7:30 pm; Fri, 8 pm; Sat, 5, 8 pm; Sun, 3:30, 6:30 pm. $25-$77.50. To May 31. Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln. (773) 935-6100. (Recommended, Weiss)

MOONLIGHT AND MAGNOLIS. Fox Valley Repertory presents Ron Hutchinson’s comedy about the making of “Gone With the Wind.” Directed by Dennis Zacek. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 2 pm. $32-$42. To March 11. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main, St. Charles. (630) 584-6342.

MOTION. Signal Ensemble Theatre presents Ronan Marra’s drama about a sports agent determined to make his client the number one pick in the professional football draft. Directed by Aaron Snook. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $20. To March 3. Signal Ensemble Theatre, 1802 W. Berenice. (773) 698-7389.

NATIONAL SENSATION. Annoyance Theatre presents a political thriller about a man who thwarts a terrorist attack and is thrust into the national spotlight. Closes Thu, 8 pm. $10. Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. (773) 561-4665.

OOHRAH! Steppenwolf Theatre’s Garage Rep presents Livewire Chicago’s staging of Bekah Brunstetter’s play about a wife who is unprepared for her soldier husband’s reentry into civilian life. Directed by Brad Akin. Days and times vary. $20; $45 three-play pass. To April 8. Steppenwolf Garage, 1624 N. Halsted. (312) 335-1650.

ORPHEUS DESCENDING. Shattered Globe Theatre presents Tennessee Williams drama about a young musician who arrives in a small Southern town and forms a relationship with a woman with a tragic past. Directed by Julieanne Ehre. 8 pm. Wed-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $18-$34. To March 11. Stage 773, 1225 W. Belmont. (773) 327-5252.

THE PEOPLE’S BARNUM. Quest Theatre presents Cy Coleman, Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble’s musical about the famous showman. Directed by Andrew Park. 8 pm. Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 2 pm. Free; reservations recommended. To March 18. Blue Theatre, 1609 W. Gregory. (312) 458-0895.

PETER PAN’S SHADOW PART ONE: NEVERLAND. Dream Theatre presents the first entry in Jeremy Menekseoglu’s trilogy which recounts Peter’s history before Neverland. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 7 pm. $18. To March 4. Dream Theatre, 556 W. 18th. (773) 552-8616.

PUNK ROCK. Griffin Theatre presents Simons Stephens’ drama exploring the underlying tensions and potential violence in a group of affluent 17-year-old students. Directed by Jonathan Berry. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $24-$34. To March 4. Theater Wit, 1229 W. Belmont. (773) 975-8150. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

PUT THE NUNS IN CHARGE. Vicki Quade’s spinoff of the hit comedy, “Late Nite Catechism.” Fri, 8 pm. $30. Open run. Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. (312) 988-9000.

THE RITZ. Circle Theatre presents Terence McNally’s comedy about mistaken identity. Directed by Bob Knuth. 8 pm. Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $24-$28. To April 1. Circle Theatre, 1010 Madison, Oak Park. (708) 660-9540.

SAINTS & SINNERS. Vicki Quade’s Mother Superior is called by the archdiocese to help with fund-raising. Sat, 5 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $30. Open run. Royal George Theatre, 1641 N. Halsted. (312) 988-9000.

SIRENS. Citadel Theatre presents Deborah Zoe Laufer’s comedy about a couple whose marraige is tested when they take a vacation in the Greek Islands. Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $35-$37.50. To March 4. Citadel Theatre, 300 S. Waukegan, Lake Forest. (847) 735-8554.

SIX CHARACTERS IN SEARCH OF AN AUTHOR. The Hypocrites present Steve Moulds’ adaptation of Luigi Pirandello’s classic tragicomedy. Directed by Halena Kays. Thu-Sat, 7:30 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $28-$36. To March 11. Chopin Theatre, 1543 W. Division. (773) 989-7352. (Highly Recommended, Weiss)

SOUTH PACIFIC. Broadway in Chicago presents Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic musical. Fri, 7:30 pm; Sat, 2, 8 pm; closes Sun, 2 pm. $18-$85. Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph. (800) 775-2000.

SOUTH SIDE OF HEAVEN. The Second City’s 99th revue explores the fates that propel our world. Directed by Billy Bungeroth. Tue-Thu, 8 pm; Fri-Sat, 8, 11 pm; Sun, 7 pm. $22, $27. Open run. The Second City, 1616 N. Wells. (312) 337-3992. (Somewhat recommended, Weiss)

SPRING AWAKENING. Northwestern University stages the Tony Award-winning coming-of-age musical. Directed by Geoff Button. Fri-Sat, 8 pm; closes Sun, 2 pm. $5-$25. Ethel M. Barber Theater, 30 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston. (847) 491-7282; tic.northwestern.edu.

STREETERVILLE. Annoyance Theatre presents Jeff Poindexter’s musical exploring the history of the downtown neighborhood. Sat, 10 pm. $20. To March 3. Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. (773) 561-4665.

SUPERIOR DONUTS. Mary-Arrchie Theatre presents Tracy Letts’ play about the relationship between the owner of a rundown donut shop and a young black man in trouble. Directed by Matt Miller. 8 pm. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $18-$22. To March 25. Angel Island, 735 W. Sheridan. (773) 871-0442.

SWEET HOME. MPAACT presents Keith Josef Adkins’ drama about a thriving black town with a peculiar problem: all the black boys are missing. Directed by Kimberly Crutcher. Thu-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. $15-$23. To March 11. Greenhouse Theater Center, 2257 N. Lincoln. (773) 404-736.

TIME STANDS STILL. Steppenwolf Theatre presents Donald Margulies’ drama about a photojournalist who barely survives a bomb blast in Iraq and returns home where she is pressed to consider settling into a “normal” life by her longtime boyfriend. Directed by Austin Pendleton. Tue-Fri, 7:30 pm; Sat-Sun, 3, 7:30 pm. Additional performance April 11, 18, 25, May 2, 9, 2 pm. No performance May 5. Sunday evening performances throught April 8 only. $20-$78. To May 13. Steppenwolf Upstairs Theatre, 1650 N. Halsted. (312) 335-1650. (Recommended, Weiss)

TINY FASCISTS — A BOY SCOUT MUSICAL. This musical comedy follows a group of dedicated Boy Scouts on a mission. Directed by Mick Napier. Fri, 10 pm. $20. To March 30. Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. (773) 561-4665; theannoyance.com.

UNNECESSARY FARCE. First Folio Theatre presents Paul Slade Smith’s comedy about a sting operation that goes wrong. Wed, Fri-Sat, 8 pm; Sun, 3 pm. Additional performaces: Feb. 26, 7:30 pm; March 1, 1 and 8 pm; March 3, 4 pm; March 4, 7:30 pm. $30-$37. To March 4. Mayslake Peabody Estate, 1717 W. 31st, Oak Brook. (630) 986-8067.

THEY ARE DYING OUT. Trap Door Theatre presents Oeter Handke’s meditation on the corporate mindset and how it infects the souls of those who engage in it. Directed by Max Truax. 8 pm. Thu-Sat, 8 pm. $20, $25; 2-for-1 admission on Thu. To March 24. Trap Door Theatre, 1655 W. Cortland. (773) 384-0494.

TOO MUCH LIGHT MAKES THE BABY GO BLIND. The Neo-Futurists present 30 shows in 60 minutes, socially and politically based. Fri-Sat, 11:30 pm; Sun, 7 pm. $9 plus the roll of a six-sided die ($10-$15). Open run. Neo-Futurarium, 5153 N. Ashland. (773) 275-5255.

A WOMAN’S PATH. Annoyance Theater presents a comedy about six middle-age women who go on a retreat deep in the Michigan wilderness. Closes Sun, 8 pm. $10. Annoyance Theatre, 4830 N. Broadway. (773) 561-4665.

ZASTROZZI: THE MASTER OF DISCIPLINE. The Division presents George F. Walker’s dark comedy about a criminal who is loosing his grip on reality. Directed by Jodi Kinglsey. Fri, 7:30 pm; closes Sat, 7:30 pm. $20. Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western. (773) 296-6024.

CHILDREN’S THEATER

ALEXANDER AND THE TERRIBLE, HORRIBLE, NO GOOD, VERY BAD DAY. Emerald City Theatre continues its 16th season with this larger-than-life musical written by children’s book author Judith Viorst. Directed by Ernie Nolan. For ages 3 and older. Days and times vary. $13-$16. To June 17. Apollo Theatre, 2540 N. Lincoln. (773) 529-2690; emeraldcitytheatre.com.

THE HOUDINI BOX. Chicago Children’s Theatre presents Blair Thomas, Hannah Kohl and Mark Messing’s adaptation of Brian Selznick’s book about a boy who receives a special box that just might contain the secrets of magician Harry Houdini’s success. Directed by Thomas. Tue-Thu, 10:15 am; Fri, times vary; Sat-Sun, 11 am, 2 pm. $26, $36. To March 4. Mercury Theatre, 3745 N. Southport. (773) 325-1700. (Highly recommended, Weiss)

HOW TO SURVIVE A FAIRY TALE. Lifeline Theatre’s KidSeries presents James E. Grote’s play about a boy who finds himself thrust into a madcap adventure filled with bears, witches, trolls and lost children. For ages 5 and up. Sat, 1 pm; closes Sun, 11 am, 1 pm. $15. Lifeline Theatre, 6912 N. Glenwood. (773) 761-4477.

NANCY DREW AND THE SIGN OF THE TWISTED CANDLES. Theatre School at DePaul University’s Chicago Playworks presents a play based on Carolyn Keene’s book. Directed by Damon Kiely. Sat, 2 p.m.; closes Tue, 10 am. $8. Merle Reskin Theatre, 60 E. Balbo. (312) 922-0999.

PINKALICIOUS. Broadway in Chicago presents Emerald City Theatre’s staging of Elizabeth Kann, Victoria Kann and John Gregor’s musical about a young girl who eats too many pink cupcakes and catches a case of “pinkititis” and turns pink from head to toe. Directed by Ernie Nolan. Sat-Sun, 10 am. $16-$22. To May 27. Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place, 175 E. Chestnut. (800) 775-2000. (Recommended, Weiss)

SNOW WHITE. Emerald City Theatre presents the fairy tale performed by Professor TJ Banker’s Troupe of Theatricals. Days and times vary. For ages 3 and up. $13, $16. To May 20. Apollo Theater, 2540 N. Lincoln. (773) 935-6100.