To celebrate their return, ArtsBoston is launching it 50% holiday season tickets online at www.bostix.org.  Among the performances expected to be available for $25 (fees included) exclusively at BosTix Faneuil Hall are “The Nutcracker” (José Mateo Ballet Theatre), “Christmas with the Back Bay Ringers,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” (Sh!t-Faced Shakespeare) “Bring Your Own Bells” (Boston Gay Men’s Chorus), “Winter Wonderettes” (Greater Boston Stage Company), and “Crumbs from the Table of Joy” (Lyric Stage Company). More performances and organizations are expected to be added. The iconic landmark in Faneuil Hall was established 50 years ago but was shuttered during the 2020 Covid crisis. Now, this signature program from ArtsBoston, the nonprofit marketing and audience development organization that provides access to the performing arts through lower-cost tickets, has reopened. Bostix has unparalleled access to the best performances and tourist attractions in the city, providing exclusive ticket offers as well as pop-up performances, and interactive arts experiences. Available tickets throughout the season can be found at www.BosTix.org. For information about special offers throughout the the city, visit https://calendar.artsboston.org/categories/bostix-deals

 MARCH 21-23 :THE ADDAMS FAMILY

The Boch Center Wang Theatre, located in Boston’s historic Theater District presents Big League Productions, Inc., celebrating its 31st season of producing and general managing Broadway tours of shows and attractions throughout the world, tour of .THE ADDAMS FAMILY. This devilishly delightful musical comedy is based on the creepy, kooky, yet loveable characters created by the legendary cartoonist, Charles Addams. This comical feast surrounds the edgy but popular princess of darkness, Wednesday Addams. She is all grown up and fallen in love and wants to marry this sweet, smart young man from a, Heaven help them, respectable family. She confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother which causes, poor Gomez Addams to do something he has never done before. Keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents. Will even a tango save Morticia and Gomez’s relationship after this deception? Will Wednesday’s sweetheart’s family survive an evening at the Addam’s mansion? Will the Ancestors return to their graves after all this chaos? This production is more fun than a jack-o-lantern filled with Halloween candy. Wednesday, became the 3rd most-watched show on Netflix of all time. Tickets may be obtained here at www.bochcenter.org

THROUGH MARCH  23: PARADE

The producers of the acclaimed Broadway revival of Parade, which captured the 2023 Tony Award® for Best Revival of a Musical, are bringing the 2025 North American Tour to Boston’s Emerson Colonial Theatre, 106 Boylston Street in Boston. Directed by Tony Award® winner Michael Arden (who also directed the pre-Broadway world premiere musical The Queen of Versailles, starring Kristin Chenoweth, this past summer), the production boasts a book by two-time Tony Award® winner, Pulitzer Prize winner, and Academy Award® winner Alfred Uhry, along with music and lyrics by three-time Tony Award® winner Jason Robert Brown. It was co-conceived by 21-time Tony Award®-winning legend Harold Prince. The producers of Parade said, “When Jason Robert Brown’s and Alfred Uhry’s masterpiece played its record-breaking and sold-out runs at New York City Center and on Broadway, it was heralded by critics for its stellar performances, magnificent score, impassioned direction, and of course, its timeliness. We are honored that we can bring Parade to audiences across North America so that they too can experience this once in a lifetime production in this moment in history.” The story is based on true events that surrounded 29 year old Leo Frank, a factory manager in Atlanta, Georgia. Married to his beloved wife, Lucille, this  newlywed Jewish couple, while struggling to make a life together, found their life irrevocably disrupted when in April of 1913, Leo was arrested and imprisoned for allegedly raping and murdering a 13 year old girl who worked in his plant. With his wife, faithfully supporting him, Leo’s fate is put into the hands, not of any true justice system at the time, but by a system driven by anti-Semitism, racial divides, and mob rule that was fueled by media sensationalism, and political maneuvering. Such a system is sadly still grossly rampant in our world today! The tale is riveting as as it reminds us that to truly love, we must see into the heart and souls of  one another. Since its debut, the production has received overwhelming acclaim. The New York Times said, “this revival, filled with deft flourishes by director Michael Arden, recalls an era of big casts, big stories, and big talent – a time when musicals actually felt like events.” Entertainment Weekly called Parade “the most gorgeous production on Broadway.” Deadline proclaimed that Parade is “a work of art! As commanding as any musical revival to hit Broadway in years.” Time Out New York stated that “Parade will echo for a long time to come. See it before the parade passes by.” The creative team for Parade includes Lauren Yalango-Grant & Christopher Cree Grant (choreography), Tony Award® nominee Dane Laffrey (scenic design), Tony Award® winner Susan Hilferty (costume design), Tony Award® nominee Heather Gilbert (lighting design), Drama Desk Award nominee Jon Weston (sound design), Tony Award® nominee Sven Ortel (projection design), Tom Watson (hair and wig design), and Kimberlee Wertz (music coordinator). Parade was originally directed on Broadway by Harold Prince. The Parade (2023 Broadway Cast Recording), was nominated for a 2023 Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album and is available on all digital platforms. The stellar cast includes Max Chernin (Broadway Revival of Parade) as Leo Frank and Talia Suskauer,  in the role of Lucille Frank. They are joined by Griffin Binnicker, Evan Harrington, Ramone Nelson, Jack Roden, Andrew Samonsky, Chris Shyer, Michael Tacconi, Alison Ewing, Olivia Goosman, Jenny Hickman, Oluchi Nwaokorie, Robert Knight, Prentiss E. Mouton (Broadway Revival of Parade), Danielle Lee Greaves (Broadway Revival of Parade), Ben Cherington, Emily Rose DeMartino (Broadway Revival of Parade), Bailee Endebrock (Broadway Revival of Parade), Caroline Fairweather (Broadway Revival of Parade), Trevor James, Sophia Manicone (Broadway Revival of  Parade), Trista Moldovan, Ethan Riordan, Brian Vaughn and Jason Simon.  William Bishop, Jerquintez A. Gipson, Brianna Javis, Benjamin Magnuson, Jodi Snyder, Eden Witvoet and Jake Ziman will be the swings. Tickets for one of the most passionately exquisite musical production are available here at www.EmersonColonialTheatre.com

MARCH 26 – APRIL 27: DON’T EAT THE MANGOS

The Huntington Theatre at the Calderwood Pavilion, in the Boston Center for the Arts, 527 Tremont Street in Boston’s South End, brings to the stage Ricardo Pérez González’s wickedly funny tragedy. Obie Award winner David Mendizábal, after directing the acclaimed world premiere production, is lending his talent to directing this play at the Huntington. The story takes us to the playwright’s beautiful, tropical homeland, the island of Puerto Rico. Here, he artfully immerses us into the lives of three, uniquely different but closely connected sisters who live just outside the most populated part of Puerto Rico, the Capital city of San Juan. A hurricane is threatening the island. Due to their diverse age differences, the women’s lives have taken various directions.

From left: Jessica Pimentel, Yesenia Iglesias and Evelyn Howe in The Huntington’s “Don’t Eat the Mangos.”:Photo by Nile Hawver  The oldest is Isma. She is a spinster who has absorbed the responsibility for taking care of her aging parents in their home. Papi,(their father) is paralyzed, requiring frequent mechanical suctioning of the mucus from his lungs. Otherwise, he would suffocate. Mami (their mother) is again in a struggle battling the painful symptoms of her cancer. The middle sister is Yiyi. She is prosperous and the wife of a top construction manager who has recently been offered a huge job in the U. S. But, as such, the move would create a major impact on her sisters. The youngest, is Wicha. She is a single mother, a teacher and one, who often focuses her energy on social causes. The storm brings thunder, lighting, wind resulting in power outages. Simultaneously, thunderous protestations rise among the sisters as a bright light is shed on the reality of the love/hate relationships that has existed within the family structure. With the power failure, the father’s suction machine no longer is functioning. The only resort is intensive manual suctioning to keep him alive. Remembrances of how their self-righteous and narcistic father physically abused them, while open handedly gave to outsiders for personal praise, while his family often went hungry. Beyond those ugly truths, other secrets rise that may or may not be already known, secrets emerge which will innervate the sisters to correlate the outcome. The playwright utilizes incredibly frank dialogue for the audience to truly gain insight into the emotional and individualistic depth of each character. How, as family members, faced with a crisis, what we in a situation and how we think it should be dealt with, is completely different from one another. The resulting bottom line, as stated by The Huntington Norma Jean Calderwood Artistic Director, Loretta Greco, “It speaks to the story of our moment. Look around: no one is okay.” Don’t Eat the Mangos had its world premiere in March 2020 right before the pandemic at San Francisco’s Magic Theatre led by Loretta Greco. It was first produced in the Boston area in 2022 as a co-production between Apollinaire Theatre Company and Teatro Chelsea. “Don’t Eat the Mangos is a reminder that great American family dramas are still getting written. The kind where each scene cuts straight to the pith. The kind that glares a light into relationships’ forbidden corners. The kind whose honesty is so unsparing, it’s contagious: when such truth is before you, you can’t help but look at your own life.” – San Francisco Chronicle. Tickets for this funny, insightful, no holds barred, stunning play may be obtained at www.huntingtontheatre.org

MARCH 27 – APRIL 13: NIGHT SIDE SONGS

The American Repertory Theatre brings to the Cambridge Masonic Temple at 1950 Massachusetts Ave. in Cambridge this A.R.T. commissioned, World Premiere that has also is produced in association with the Philadelphia Theatre Company. Written by the Richard Rodgers Award recipients, Daniel Lazour and Patrick Lazour (We Live in Cairo, Flap My Wings). It was inspired by American writer, philosopher, and cultural critic Susan Sontag’s observation that, “illness is the night side of life. Everyone who is born holds dual citizenship in the kingdom of the well and in the kingdom of the sick.”  This is a communal music-theater experience performed for—and with—an intimate audience. The ninety-minute new musical, explores the intimacy of illness, mortality, and the incredible dignity of caregivers through the story of Yasmine Holly, a fictional character that was formulated from interviews with real doctors, hospital staff, and patients. Night Side Songs gives voice to doctors, patients, researchers, and caregivers with insightful humor, grace, and profound empathy as it artfully melds the realms of the well and the sick. Directed by Taibi Magar (We Live in Cairo, Macbeth In Stride) the event gives voices all the above, including to researchers who fight to find the cures. A folk-inspired score is blended with stories that span time and provide perspective while taking the audience on a journey that brings everyone closer to the truth of life. The cast members include Jordan Dobson as Harris/​Ensemble, Robi Hager as Doctor/​Ensemble, Brooke Ishibashi as Yasmine/​Ensemble, Jonathan Raviv as Frank/​Ensemble, and Mary Testa as Desiree/​Prudence/​Ensemble. While the creative team includes Scenic Design by Matt Saunders, Costume Design by Jason A. Goodwin, Lighting Design by Amith Chandrashaker, Sound Design by Justin Stasiw, Music Direction and Piano Arrangements by Alex Bechtel. This production contains discussions of terminal illness. It thus is recommended for ages 15+. Support for the development of Night Side Songs was provided by The Bob and Alison Murchison New Work Development Fund. Tickets for this meaningful and poignant production may be obtained at www.americanrepertorytheatre.org

MARCH 27 – APRIL 20: HER PORTMANTEAU

This is the fourth production (and third staged play) in Boston’s Ufot Family Cycle series by Mfoniso Udofia. It is co-produced by Central Square Theater and the Front Porch Arts Collective. It is part of a city-wide festival being supported by theaters around Greater Boston that are producing Udofia’s Ufot Family Cycle. It was also created  in partnership with universities, social organizations, nonprofits and community activation partners. The Central Square Theater, located at 450 Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge presents this next chapter that contains an incendiary story of betrayal and forgiveness. In the first play in the series of nine, titled “Sojourners”, the Nigerian student, Abiasama has just given birth to a baby girl. Her husband, Ukpong is no longer a student or even a viable support for her. He has been forced to return to Nigeria and she decides to give up her child, send her home with her husband to be raised by her family so that she can continue to pursue her education. Years have passed and the 2^nd play, “The Grove”, finds Abasimia married to the man, from the first play, called Disciple Ufot. Together, they have had two children, one of which is a daughter names Adiaha, who struggles with accepting that she is a Lesbian. This is followed by “Runboyrun” that is being presented as a podcast and focuses on Abiasama’s frustration with her 30 year marriage to Disciple Ufot. Now, in “Her Portmanteau” Abiasama’s two daughters – Adiaha Ufot and Iniabasi, who have lived separate and very culturally different lives – are forced to reconcile their past, with clashing traditions and a family legacy that spans time, culture and generations. Directed by Tasia A. Jones, In “Her Portmanteau”, mother and daughters struggle with the many differences starting when Adiaha is late picking up her half sister at the airport. A wall of silence is immediately erected and Adiaha assumes her sister, despite the truth, cannot speak English. Plus, most importantly to note, Abasiama was never endowed with exceptional mothering skills. The story is set in New York City, and reveals how we, as humans, presume to create a bright scenario for ourselves, when invariably we are often forced to face the harsh realities that actually come along each day of our lives when trying to attempt to survive loss and pain… and move on. The play primarily focuses on Abiasama as her past and present is revealed while standing between her two girls. Like the previous plays in the series, there is a feeling that we are still left holding some floating pieces, with many questions unresolved. It is similar to watching a series on Netflix where one has to wait for the next episode to gain a sense of fruition. But in a way, that is exactly how life seems to unfold! Tickets may be obtained at www.centralsquaretheater.org

MARCH 28 – APRIL 19: THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG

Greater Boston Stage Company at 395 Main St. in Stoneham brings this side-splitting comedy of errors to their stage. It will leave you in stitches as you watch  everything that can go wrong during a production, and actually does. Directed by Tyler Rosati, this hysterically funny comedy was written by Henry Lewis, Jonathan Sayer and Henry Shields, founders of the British based Mischief Theatre Company. Based on a seemingly unending list of real-life accidents and problems that can occur in a traditional show, it has garnered a number of nominations and won eight major awards from the UK to Broadway. Broadway World voted it the Funniest Play of the Decade. The production opens as the Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society’s stage crew is tweaking last minute issues with the set. But before they finish adjusting the mantelpiece they receive the call for “curtain time” and have to vacate the stage immediately. The head of the company announces the title of their new murder mystery while the spot light seems to be perpetually missing him. It is “MURDER AT HAVERSHAM MANOR!” He awkwardly intimates that the company has had production issues in the past but assures the audience that this new production will be perfect. But the show immediately evolves into trips, falls, faulty lighting, stuck doors that impede entrances and…yes, the fragile mantelpiece that the crew had to abandon. But those are small potatoes as actors are knocked unconscious, elevators fail and even 2^nd floor staging collapses. The characters consist of Chris, played by Paul Melendy* who takes on the role of the Inspector in the play.. He is actually the  head of the drama society and very frustrated by his inept acting troupe. Plus, he is wrought with  anxiety surrounding the success of this new production since their has been a list of previous failed ones. The actor Robert, who  takes on the role of Thomas Colleymoore in the show and is played by Mark Linehan*, fancies himself as a Richard Burton type. He is self absorbed, clueless to his own errors and wants to take Chris’ position as President of the Drama Society. Max, played by Liam Grimaldi is in the role of Cecil Haversham. He has never acted before, breaks character by engaging with the audience and thoughtlessly bumbles through the production. Dennis  takes on the role of the butler, Perkins, who performed by Sarah Morin. Dennis is joyless about anything theatrical as well as a painful introvert. As such, he hopes to springboard his social life by being on stage. Yet, when the audience laughs he absorbs it as a personal failure on his part. Then there is Trevor, played by Jeff Mahoney. He is the lighting and sound operator who has little use for actors, and just wants to get on with the show, despite engaging on occasion with the audience. They all seem to suffer minimal focus. The cast are British except for Jonathan, an American, played by Stewart Smith* in the role of Charles Haversham. He features himself as cool, collected, and utterly removed from his surroundings….but does actually care about the success of the show. The British actress, Sandra, played by Sarah Gadzwicz* takes on the part of Florence Colleymoore in the show. Sandra is a vain ingénue who trips over her own ego centric, cutthroat manner while she is assuring herself that her future in Hollywood is dependent on her performance as well as the success of the show. Finally, we have Annie, an American, played by Ceit Zweil* who takes on the role of the Stage Manager. Her constant focus has been behind the scenes until she is forced to step into the show where her acting obsession skyrockets out of control. The result is delightful bedlam from start to curtain fall. Tickets for one of the most fun shows in theaters today may be purchased here at www.greaterbostonstage.org

MARCH 29 & 30!: PAW PATROL LIVE! “A MIGHTY ADVENTURE

 Nickelodeon and VStar Entertainment Group bring to the stage of the  Boch Center Wang Theatre  at 270 Tremont St. this all-new live stage show that picks up where Paramount Pictures’ #1 box office hit, PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie left off. Audiences will join Chase, Marshall, Skye and the rest of the “PAW-some” pack in Adventure City. The pups will be charged up like never before, as they use their Mighty Pup Powers to work together to super-save the day. With heroic action, catchy tunes, and “bark-loads” of interactive fun, this electrifying new experience is sure to leave tails wagging and audiences cheering! Based on the top rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol, airing on Nickelodeon and produced by Spin Master Entertainment, the show promises a high-stakes super-powered adventure for fans of all ages. Following their last film episode when the pups had saved Adventure City, the story now continues with a “PAW-some-est” ever, street party celebration. But when supervillain scientist Victoria Vance is left out of the festivities, she unleashes her latest invention to crash the party and steal the spotlight for herself! It’ll take the power of paw-sitivity and mighty teamwork to outsmart Victoria and make sure Adventure City’s biggest bash goes off without a hitch. Since its debut in 2016, this production marks the fourth PAW Patrol Live! touring production. created by VStar Entertainment Group and Nickelodeon. PAW Patrol Live! shows have been providing lifelong memories and spectacular theater experiences. For 6 million people in over 40 countries. Tickets may be purchased at www.pawpatrollive.com

THROUGH MARCH  30: THE COMEDY OF HAMLET (A PREQUEL)

Reed Martin & Austin Tichenor bring their Reduced Shakespeare Company back to the stage of the Merrimack Repertory Theatre in the Nancy L. Donahue Theatre at Liberty Hall 50 E. Merrimack Street in Lowell (Adjacent to Lowell Memorial Auditorium).  The Reduced Shakespeare Company has a long-standing tradition of bringing their trademark comedic approach to the Merrimack Repertory Theatre stage, with previous productions like The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) and The Reduced History of America that received rave reviews. Now, they’re back with The Comedy of Hamlet, offering a hilarious take on the iconic characters and events that set the stage for the dark drama we all know so well. Nothing is rotten in the state of Denmark until young Hamlet leaps into action to save the nunnery with the help of Ophelia and Yorick the jester. What could possibly go wrong? Three performers, Geoffrey Barnes, Doug Harvey, and Austin Tichenor will leave the audience in fits of laughter as they deftly switch between characters with rapid-fire costume changes, witty dialogue, and impeccable timing. Their energetic performances bring the absurdity of the story to life, making for an unforgettable experience .With its signature blend of sharp wit, slapstick humor, and clever wordplay, the Reduced Shakespeare Company offers an entertaining look at the iconic tragedy’s characters and events, long before the famous “To be or not to be” soliloquy. This hysterical prequel answers all the important questions, like:
• Why can’t Ophelia take swimming lessons?
• Where the hell is Mrs. Polonius?
• And why does Hamlet’s mother spend so much time at his uncle’s house?
According to the Napa Valley Register, Reed Martin and Austin Tichenor have written a
hilarious production that is “part satire, part musical, part knee slapping, guffaw-inducing,
completely silly romp”. Three performers, Geoffrey Barnes, Doug Harvey, and Austin
Tichenor will leave the audience in fits of laughter as they deftly switch between characters
with rapid-fire costume changes, witty dialogue, and impeccable timing. Their energetic
performances bring the absurdity of the story to life, making for an unforgettable
experience. This is a fast, funny, and physical extravaganza filled with scary ghosts, wee Scots, singing nuns, and a mysterious vassal in the castle. These MRT friends, The Reduced Shakespeare Company, take audiences on a deep, irreverent dive into the greatest play ever written. Tickets for this fun and engaging production filled with some delightfully sophisticated laughs may be obtained at www.mrt.org

APRIL 2 – 13: IT’S A MOTHER f**KING PLEASURE

ArtsEmerson at the Emerson Paramount Center at 539 Washington St. in Boston host s FlawBored from the United Kingdom In their Jackie Liebergott Black Box Theater. This multi award-winning, disability-led theatre company come, hot off the back of their smash-hit “VAULT” at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival as well as Soho Theatre runs. FlawBored creators creators Samuel Brewer, Chloe Palmer, and Aarian Mehrabani also perform in this  scathing satire on the monetization of identity politics that spares no one. Usually disabled people want to do the right thing. But what if they don’t? What if they were out to make as much money as possible by profiting on the guilt of non-disabled, anxious people (like you)? The fictional PR firm “Rize” faces accusations of ableism (prejudice, bias, and discrimination directed toward people with disabilities) from unleashing a whirlwind of spin, changing narratives, and PC-culture. Enter Ross, a Blind influencer with his star on the rise, who is ready to profit off the guilt of non-disabled, anxious people. Will Rize and Ross come out on top, or will they get derailed by the shitstorm? Tickets for this hysterically funny tale about disability rights…and wrongs may be obtained at www.artsemerson.org

APRIL 4 -13: CAROUSEL

The Boston Lyric Opera brings the return of this marvelously magical musical to the stage of the Emerson Colonial Theater, 106 Boylston Street in Boston.  The original production of Carousel made its initial pre-Broadway premier on the same stage of the Colonial Theater eighty years ago. Considered to be among the most beloved American musicals, it also was voted as the best musical of the 20th century by Time Magazine. Carousel, celebrating its 80^th Anniversary, has now come under the artistic hand of visionary director and BLO Artistic Associate Anne Bogart. She has crafted an exciting and provocative interpretation of Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein’s classic tale. The 40-piece Boston Lyric Opera Orchestra is conducted by BLO Music Director David Angus, who along with the 38 member Boston Lyric Opera Chorus and the 17 member cast of shunning operatic stars will bring all the memorable and beloved songs such as “If I Loved You,” “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and many more to glowing fruition.. The creative team for CAROUSEL includes: choreographer Shura Baryshnikov, whose new choreography aims to honor the movement by the iconic dance maker Agnes de Mille; set designer Sara Brown, costume designer Haydee Zelideth, lighting designer Brian H. Scott, and wig and makeup designer Earon Chew Nealey. The unique staging opens with a traveling group of outsider artists that arrive in an abandoned amusement park. They are carrying their own props while dressing into their costumes. An old rollercoaster provides the set. Then a rusty lever is lifted, the park’s lights come on, the music rolls and the audience finds themselves now in an 1870’s, small New England village. The story evolves from a joyous day at a carnival into a tempestuous love between a millworker, Julie Jordon, performed by Brandie Sutton and a carousel barker, Billy Bigelow, played by Edward Nelson. Julie and her friend as well as co-worker, Carrie Pepperage, played by Anjy Matanoic, who is engaged to Mr. Snow (“When I Marry Mr. Snow”), decide to go have some fun at a local fair. While Carrie is on the Carousel, Billy gives her a hug, His boss, Nettie Fowler, played by Jamie Barton, immediately condemns Julie for her improper behavior and orders her to leave. But Billy comes to Julie’s defense, forcing Nettie to fire Billy for insubordination. In turn, when Julie’s boss becomes involved, he fires Julie. Months later Julie and Billy marry but things are financially hard for them. When Billy discovers his wife is pregnant he agrees to commit a crime with one of his friends. Things go wrong and Billy ends up dead. When he goes to meet his maker, the Star-keeper, played by M. Lee Pelton, does not allow Billy into heaven because of his misdeeds. Fifteen years later, when  his daughter Louise, is now a young woman, Billy is allowed to return briefly to earth to make amends for his past life. The production is a poignant tale of the power of love and redemption. Audiences will surely fall in love with this exquisitely beautiful story filled with outstanding songs and performances. Tickets for this unforgettable theatrical experience may be obtained at www.blo.org/events

APRIL 4 – 27: THE GREAT REVEAL

The Lyric Stage at 140 Clarendon Street, brings the premiere of David Valdes dramedy to their stage. Directed by Bridget Kathleen O’Leary and Charlotte Snow, this work was commissioned by Lyric Stage Boston. The story surrounds seven months pregnant Lexi. She is newly married and excitedly has planned the perfect gender reveal party to be held in her backyard. But, her immature husband, Christopher, is not too excited about the coming baby as he is having trouble embracing what his life will be like for him once this child comes and he is forced into the role of being a father. The audience begins to realize that not everyone is as enthusiastic about the celebration as Lexi. Her brother Linus, a trans man, finds himself caught between his sister and his partner Dosia, who has been given the responsibility of making the cake for this event. that seems to go against everything they, as a  couple, stand for. As Lexi is immaculately overseeing every detail of this ever so important event to her, emotions begin to fester in the background. Then, truthful revelations begin to erupt all around her. In this exploration about family, the audience can see each member being forced to grapple for ways to keep on loving each other while being true to oneself. It is an exploration of the ways a diverse group of people, who actually do love each other, may may be forced to navigate family dynamics along with embracing gender identity. The cast consists of the very pregnant, Lexi played by Paige Clark*; her husband, Christopher played by Arthur Gomez*; and her brother Linus played by Jupiter Le*, while his significant other, Dosia, is played by Antonia Turilli*. The scenic design is by Barin E, Pugh**; with costume designs by E. Rosser; Lighting Design by Christopher Brusberg**; and Sound Design/Composition by Kai Bohlman. The commission for the creation of this play was made possible through the generosity of G. Lee and Diana Humphrey. Tickets may be obtained at www.lyricstage.com

THROUGH APRIL 6: THE TRIUMPH OF LOVE

The Huntington’s production of this classic romantic comedy, is like a breath of spring. Despite having been written in 1732 by Pierre Carlet de Marivaux, it is still delightfully funny, engaging and very clever. This translation by Stephen Wadsworth’s brought new light to this play on the American stage and now, under the exceptionally artistic hand of the multi award-winning director, Loretta Greco, this uproariously funny French comedy brings us the tale of a uniquely clever princess who finds herself smitten with a handsome prince she first spied in the forest. She realizes that he is the rightful heir of the late Cléomènes, King of Sparta. But since she is related to the person who imprisoned the prince’s mother who gave birth to him while in captivity, and who was ultimately hidden in the home of a professor, she knows that he has been taught to hate her, who he has never met.

Left to right: Allison Altman as Leonide, Rob B. Kellogg as Agis: photo by Liza Voll   Thus, to win his undying affections, she must woo him in disguise. So Princess Leonide, who delivers an extraordinary amount of manipulative dialogue, is brilliantly played by Allison Altman* (Birthday Candles on Broadway, Mother, Daughter, Sisterwife Off Broadway, Anna Karenina at the Denver Center). She is joined by her servant Corine, played by Avanthika Srinivasan* (Elyria Off Broadway, Candid at Gringold Theatrical Group, Daredevil: Born Again on Disney). Corine talentedly paints miniatures for her princess, of the targets in the household, that get used to support the secret ploy. They disguise themselves as men and sneak into the garden of the home where her love interest Agis, the actual prince, played with endearing naivety by Rob Kellogg (Romeo and Juliet Off Broadway, the films The Bride; No Later Light, and the TV series Pretty Little Liars: Original Sin) has been cloistered for years.

Left to right: Patrick Kerr as Dimas, Vincent Randazzo as Harlequin: photo by Liza Voll     From the start, hilarious complications commence when Harlequin, played by Vincent Randazzo* (The Servant of Two Masters at Lanes Coven Theatre, Survival of the Unfit at Great Barrington Public Theatre, Crime and Punishment at The Old Globe), who is not actually a total fool, immediately realizes that Leonide and Corine are actually women. He thus decides to profit from their deception. But, then again, he proves himself to be a fool when he is easily duped into revealing the true knowledge surrounding the two alleged men to Dimas, the gardener, played by Patrick Kerr* (Travesties; You Can’t Take It with You on Broadway, The Big Door Prize on Apple T.). He also wants to join in with the monetary rewards of keeping the deception from his master, mistress, and Agis. With promises of a future large financial reward from Leonide, the pair join in to the antics to further assist in the cause of the deception. There is chaos at every turn. 

Left to right: Marianna Bassham as Leontine, Allison Altman as Leonide, Vincent Randazzo as Harlequin: photo by Liza Voll  First resistance is from Madame Leontine, played by Marianna Bassham* the unyielding sister who runs the household. And then Hermocrate, played by Nael Nacer* (Nassim; Leopoldstadt at The Huntington; and Prayer for the French Republic at The Huntington and on Broadway). They do not want outsiders in their home to disrupt their stringent rules. It becomes hysterically funny as one watches all the absurd methods utilized by the disguised Princess to further her complex plans. She first stunningly beguiles the rigid loveless spinster, Madame Leontine into a state of giddy love over the male persona of the disguised princess.

Left to right: Rob B. Kellogg as Agis, Nael Nacer as Hermocrate: photo by Liza Voll                Meanwhile, she is simultaneously enchanting the humorless philosopher into loving her since he initially recognized her to be a woman. And all the while, she is gently manipulating the warry Agis who obviously is falling in love with her but does not know what love is having been taught to be warry of women. Adding to the  convoluted and total bedlam as well as possible deal breaker, she has to reveal the huge complication of who she really is, the woman he was taught to hate  The audience begins to hold their breath as her efforts evolve into hours before three weddings are being performed. Then, those three intended, head over heels in love, suddenly begin to realize that they are marrying the same person. How could this possibly evolve into a happy ending? This intricately and outrageously sophisticated comedy is an absolute delight! Director Loretta Greco stated, “Full of playful deception, romance, hilarity and hope, The Triumph of Love is a surprising, deeply moving and modern examination of our ability to grow over time. That this play which premiered in 1732 feels so alive today owes much to the singular passion of Stephen Wadsworth and this definitive adaptation.”

The cast of The Triumph of Love: photo by Liza Voll This magical production is wrapped in exquisite French costumes and a stunning pastoral set designs by Junghyun Georgia Le ,(The Heart Sellers at The Huntington). As love blooms, so do flowers pop up in the hedge row. It is carefully bathed in romantic lighting by Christopher Akerlind (Prayer for the French Republic at The Huntington). Love and laughter are truly on stage at The Huntington’s theater located at 264 Huntington Ave. Tickets for this unforgettably light spirited production may be obtained here at https://www.huntingtontheatre.org/whats-on/the-triumph-of-love/ 

APRIL 8 – 13: RIVERDANCE

The Boch Center Wang Theatre at 270 Tremont St. in Boston, brings to their stage the return to the city of Riverdance, now observing their 30^th Anniversary bringing its wonderful fusion of Irish and international dance and music. Since coming onto the world stage, the production has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. The Grammy award-winning music and the infectious energy of the show boasts mesmerizing choreography and breathtaking performances that leaves audience in in awe and are what originally established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation. This all new anniversary tour is a spectacular production that rejuvenates the much-loved original show as well as contains new innovative choreography, costumes, state of the art lighting, along with depth additions of stunning projections and motion graphics. And for the first time Riverdance welcomes “The New Generation” of performers, all of whom were not born when the show originated 30 years ago John McColgan, Director of Riverdance said “ It is both a privilege and a delight to celebrate 30 years of Riverdance and the unique journey it has taken us on. In those 30 years the show has…” continuously evolved…”yet remaining true to its Irish roots. On this upcoming tour we look forward to welcoming ‘The New Generation’ of artists while paying tribute to the talented performers, creators, dedicated crew, and the millions of fans who have made Riverdance a worldwide celebration of music and dance.” Audiences, new as well as solid long term fans, will enjoy a unique and memorable performance as it blends the traditional and the contemporary, showcasing the skill and passion of the world-class of dancers, musicians and singers in the Riverdance ensemble. Composed by Bill Whelan, Produced by Moya Doherty and Directed by John McColgan, Riverdance should not be missed. Tickets may be obtained at www.bochcenter.org

APRIL 8 – 20: SHUCKED

Lexus 2024-2025 Broadway In Boston brings this 2022 recipient of nine Tony Award® nominated musical comedy that The Wall Street Journal called “flat out hilarious!” to the stage of the Citizens Opera House at 539 Washington St. This truly quirky musical features a book by Tony Award winner Robert Horn (Tootsie) along with a score by the Grammy® Award–winning songwriting team of Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally (KaceyMusgraves’ “Follow Your Arrow”). Directed by Tony Award winner Jack O’Brien (Hairspray), this simply is a very cute, and of course, “corny” story that has storytellers opening the show with a discussion of the history of the town, Cob County, emphasizing the town’s love for corn. They introduce the audience to Maizy and Beau, a couple who are planning their wedding.

As they are getting married and Beau’s brother Peanut is officiating, the town discovers the corn is starting to die. Corn is everything to everyone in this simple, sheltered, small town. So, first things first,…the town halts the wedding until they can save the corn. Before even discussing the situation with her bewildered Beau, Maizy confers with her grandfather and Lulu, her cousin, who owns the local bar and distillery. Yes, as in corn liquor/ Moonshine/ ergo whiskey distillery. They agree she has to leave town and go to the big city (Tampa) and find someone who can help. Beau begs her to stay but Maizy digs her heels in the corn patch and books a plane to Tampa. Having never been outside of Cob County, Maizy is totally in awe of the city but diligently looks for someone who surly could help. Discovering that there is an actual “corn doctor” she makes an appointment with a podiatrist named Gordy. Coming from a family of con-artists, plus being in debt to some mobsters, Gordy hatches a plan when he sees a sparkling bracelet on Maizy’s wrist. He takes it to be appraised and is told the stones are very valuable. He charms Maizy to the point she kisses him. Feeling guilty for cheating but still feeling that she can save the corn, she brings Gordy back to Cob County with her. Beau is still angry at Maizy but she says that Beau is jealous that she managed to do something about their situation, while he was afraid to even leave Cob County.

With a tale that gets thicker than corn mash this corn story gets more confounded. But Gordy does turn up with a healthy ear of corn…but will the corn in the field look that good? Will Maizy and Beau’s love survive? And will Peanut and Lulu, who both decide they fancy Gordy survive? Or will the entire town have to go to Whole Food from now on to get corn? The show is filled with fifteen upbeat, imaginative songs like “Corn” and “Corn Mix” that have the audience tapping their toes throughout. Grab your popped corn in the lobby before you sit down and enjoy this fun and fantastically creative musical treat. Tickets may be obtained here at www.BroadwayInBoston.com

APRIL 22 – 27: THE BOOK OF MORMON

They are back again…and if you have not experienced this most irreverent, outlandish and total, laugh out loud, funny musical, then now is the time.  Lexus 2024-2025 Broadway In Boston again brings this insanely unique show back to the Citizens Bank Opera House at 539 Washington Street in Boston. The New York Times called it “the best musical of this century.” Entertainment Weekly said, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” while Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show called it “Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal.” THE BOOK OF MORMON has won nine Tony Award’s including the coveted one for Best Musical and has been running on Broadway for 14 years non-stop. They are also the creators of the also edgy South Park animated series. This outrageous musical comedy follows the adventures of a mismatched pair of Mormon missionaries. Elder Price has prayed he will be sent to Orlando FL for  his two years while his partner, who he cant stand, Elder Cunningham is a pop-culture fanatic and a psychotically gifted fabricator. Price cannot stand his partner. Despite hoping for an assignment near Disney World….they are sent halfway across the world to a remote village in  Uganda  to spread the Good Word. Easier said than done when the natives have been  disillusioned by AIDS, failed crops and are constantly being terrorized by warlords. They respond with a chant that the missionaries get caught up with until they find out it means “Fuck You God. “Price decides to quit and flee to Orlando. Meanwhile, our unconventional Elder Cunningham taps into his creative psyche and  develops a mostly Star Wars inspired religion. The natives fall at his feet, especially one cute native girl. That is, until  some  Elders arrive from Utah to see how their young missionaries have been  so successful with converting the natives.

With standing room only productions in London, on Broadway, and across North America, THE BOOK OF MORMON has truly become an international sensation. Warning for children, along with those who are faint of heart….the how includes a lot of explicit language. Tickets for this ridiculously fun production may be purchased here at www.BroadwayInBoston.com

APRIL 23 – MAY 11: WHAT YOU ARE NOW

The Merrimack Repertory Theatre, located in the Nancy L. Donahue Theatre at Liberty Hall on 50 E. Merrimack Street in Lowell (Adjacent to Lowell Memorial Auditorium) brings Sam Chanse’s thrillingly insightful new play to their stage. The story is set in Lowell and surrounds Pia, a passionate young researcher investigating new ideas about how to heal the mind from traumatic memories. Her interest is deeply intertwined with her own family’s history. When a figure from the past shows up, urging Pia’s mother to testify about her experiences during the violence of 1970s Cambodia, unresolved histories are brought to the surface. The production challenges us to move through the shifting dance between the past and present, and to consider how with new understanding we might change “who you were then” to “what you are now Tickets for this fun as well as engaging production may be obtained at www.mrt.org

APRIL 29 – MAY 4 : MEAN GIRLS

Not everything is pretty in pink especially when it is worn by a group of very mean girls. The Emerson Colonial Theatre, 106 Boylston Street in Boston an ATG Entertainment venue, located at Boylston St. in Boston, is pleased to announce the North American Tour of “Mean Girls”. It is the record-breaking new musical comedy that was adapted from the hit Paramount Pictures film by the same name. Mean Girls features a book by nine-time Emmy Award winner Tina Fey with Music by three-time Emmy Award winner Jeff Richmond and lyrics by two-time Tony Award nominee Nell Benjamin. The original direction and choreography is by two-time Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw. Following its world premiere at the National Theatre in Washington, DC, in the fall of 2017, Mean Girls opened on Broadway in April 2018 to rave reviews.

The story surrounds 16 year old, home schooled,  Cady Heron, who grew up on the wilds of an African savanna. After living 12 years in the wild,  nothing prepared her for the wild and vicious ways of her strange new home in suburban Illinois. Painfully shy, she be friends two outcasts, Damian and Janis apprise her of the cliquing order in the school as well as warn her about the “Plastics”, a trio of pretty, wealthy and completely mean girls. The queen bee of the group is the ruthless Regina George. Number 2 is Gretchen Wieners who is the insecure gossipy one.  And finally is Karen Smith, a bit naively simple minded but actually sweet. How will this naïve newbie survive, never mind rise to the top of the popularity pecking order? Initially the Plastics decide they like Cady and invite her into their group where  she starts to become like them. Janis is heartbroken that Cady is with them so hatches a plan to destroy the Plastics. But when Regina sees her old boyfriend is interested in Cady, Regina kisses him and then kisses Cady to the curb. Cady is back on Janis and Damian’s team with the plan to end Regina’s reign. But Cady learns the hard way that you can’t cross a Queen Bee without getting stung. The war begins! Will the ruthless Regina gain her crown back? Will Cady flee back to the planes of Africa? Finding out is so much fun in this musical surrounding the tough teenage world and all their unique rituals to get them through high school in one piece. .New York Magazine called Mean Girls “HILARIOUS! A smart, splashy new musical that delivers with immense energy, a wicked sense of humor and joyful inside-jokery.” Chicago Tribune said “Tina Fey writes FUNNIER, SMARTER, SHARPER satire than anyone else in the business.” People Magazine calls the show “FRESH, FUN AND INFECTIOUS – Jeff Richmond and Nell Benjamin’s songs keep the laughs coming!” The New York Daily News said Mean Girls “TICKLES THE EARS, EYES AND FUNNY BONE – the direction by Casey Nicholaw packs style, invention and red bull-force energy.” And, Entertainment Weekly calls it “A MARVEL: DAZZLING & HILARIOUS!” Mean Girls is on an Original Broadway Cast Recording produced by Atlantic Records. Tickets for this outstandingly fun entertainment rides may be obtained at www.emersoncolonialtheatre.com.