Stage

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Monday, August 4, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Monday, August 4, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Monday, August 4, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Monday, August 4, 2014

Pink Door Cabaret Trapeze performances (6:15-8:45 p.m.) by Bridget Gunning (Sun.) and Tanya Brno (Mon.). Saturdays, go “Behind the Pink Door” (11 p.m.,). See website for full details.   The Pink Door, 1919 Post Alley, Seattle $20 cover Monday, August 4, 2014

• 

Wooden O Again Seattle Shakespeare Co. is committed to outdoor productions of the Bard, and this summer’s offerings are The Two Gentlemen of Verona and Julius Caesar. The former, obviously, is a little more family friendly, with Jason Marr and Conner Neddersen, respectively, as BFFs Proteus and Valentine, whose parting triggers a series of love notes, saucy servants, disapproving fathers, misplaced affections, inpudant servants, mistaken identites, loveable brigands, premature announcements-of-death, and cross-dressing. David Quicksall directs. As for the Roman tragedy Julius Caesar, directed by Vanessa Miller, this will be an all-female production, with Therese Diekhans as the doomed overreaching tyrant, Suzanne Bouchard as Brutus, and Amy Thone as Cassius. (See seattleshakespeare.org for park locations and schedule.) BRIAN MILLER Free Monday, August 4, 2014

Pagliacci Comedy Night Local and national comics, every first Monday. Beer and wine will be available with ID. 8 p.m., first Monday of every month. Pagliacci Pizza, 426 Broadway Ave. E., Seattle, WA 98102 Free Monday, August 4, 2014, 8pm

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Comedy Womb This “female-focused but not female-exclusive” show includes a headliner and an open-mike segment, in the Grotto underneath the Rendezvous. JewelBox Theater at the Rendezvous, 2322 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 $5 Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Tuesday, August 5, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Tuesday, August 5, 2014

• 

The Book of Mormon Tickets went fast when this show toured through town in January of last year, and you’ll have to be quick on the mouse to book a seat for this return engagement. Things this hit show’s creators-Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez-hate: received wisdom, Disney plasticity, Johnnie Cochran, and condescension from anyone anywhere on the politico-religious spectrum. Things they love: production numbers. Their Tony-winning musical follows two fresh-faced Mormons, dorky, porky Elder Cunningham and square-jawed, self-adoring Elder Price, on their first mission to Uganda. Discovering that his confabulated Mormon myths draw converts even more effectively than the ones in his titular Book, Cunningham wreaks havoc in the village. For most of the evening, the combination of perky tunes (by Lopez), jazz hands, and verbal atrocities keeps the show bouncing along expertly. Then Book takes off to a new, exhilarating, hilariously profane dimension when the Ugandans reinterpret, in a show-within-a-show, all that Cunningham has taught them. Credit goes to Parker, Lopez, and Stone for creating a big, glitzy fun-fest that will be absolutely untouchable by any high-school drama department. Oh, and if the shows are already sold out or the tickets too dear, take heart that a movie adaptation is supposedly in the works. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see stgpresents.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 10.) GAVIN BORCHERT The Paramount, 911 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101 $45 and up Tuesday, August 5, 2014

• 

Wooden O Again Seattle Shakespeare Co. is committed to outdoor productions of the Bard, and this summer’s offerings are The Two Gentlemen of Verona and Julius Caesar. The former, obviously, is a little more family friendly, with Jason Marr and Conner Neddersen, respectively, as BFFs Proteus and Valentine, whose parting triggers a series of love notes, saucy servants, disapproving fathers, misplaced affections, inpudant servants, mistaken identites, loveable brigands, premature announcements-of-death, and cross-dressing. David Quicksall directs. As for the Roman tragedy Julius Caesar, directed by Vanessa Miller, this will be an all-female production, with Therese Diekhans as the doomed overreaching tyrant, Suzanne Bouchard as Brutus, and Amy Thone as Cassius. (See seattleshakespeare.org for park locations and schedule.) BRIAN MILLER Free Tuesday, August 5, 2014

An Evening of One-Acts This periodic series presents works by Steve Martin, Sam Shepard, and Woody Allen. R. Hamilton Wright directs them all, with proven stage talent you’ve seen during the prior season. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $15-$51 Tuesday, August 5, 2014, 7:30pm

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Comedy Womb This “female-focused but not female-exclusive” show includes a headliner and an open-mike segment, in the Grotto underneath the Rendezvous. JewelBox Theater at the Rendezvous, 2322 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 $5 Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Wednesday, August 6, 2014

• 

Jane Eyre Musical theater has had some success with neglected orphans (Annie or Oliver!, anyone?), so an adaptation of Jane Eyre was probably inevitable. Charlotte Bronte’s 1847 novel is, after all, one of the earliest female coming-of-age tales ever told, set decades prior during the Georgian period. The show premiered on Broadway 14 years ago, and it might sound like a slog. Quite the opposite. Directed by Karen Lund, this production moves quickly and seamlessly through Jane’s early tale of woe. The show ((created by Paul Gordon and John Caird) focuses on our heroine’s middle period, after Jane is hired to work as a governess at the pleasure of apparent bachelor Edward Fairfax Rochester. Art Anderson’s Rochester is a manifold pleasure to behold. He sings well, commands the stage, and mugs for the audience with assurance. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Jessica Spencer, who turns in an uneven performance as the grown Jane. (Abi Brittle plays defiant 10-year-old Jane.) Too often her Jane seems bewildered and lost in her moral and spiritual upheaval; it’s difficult to see the spark that draws Rochester near. Even so, during the song “Painting Her Portrait,” Spencer gives a jaw-dropping performance, the seeds sown during Jane’s abusive childhood coming to fruition. It is a moving and frightening episode of self-doubt. (7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 16.) MARK BAUMGARTEN Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle $15-$40 Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Wednesday, August 6, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Wednesday, August 6, 2014

• 

The Book of Mormon Tickets went fast when this show toured through town in January of last year, and you’ll have to be quick on the mouse to book a seat for this return engagement. Things this hit show’s creators-Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez-hate: received wisdom, Disney plasticity, Johnnie Cochran, and condescension from anyone anywhere on the politico-religious spectrum. Things they love: production numbers. Their Tony-winning musical follows two fresh-faced Mormons, dorky, porky Elder Cunningham and square-jawed, self-adoring Elder Price, on their first mission to Uganda. Discovering that his confabulated Mormon myths draw converts even more effectively than the ones in his titular Book, Cunningham wreaks havoc in the village. For most of the evening, the combination of perky tunes (by Lopez), jazz hands, and verbal atrocities keeps the show bouncing along expertly. Then Book takes off to a new, exhilarating, hilariously profane dimension when the Ugandans reinterpret, in a show-within-a-show, all that Cunningham has taught them. Credit goes to Parker, Lopez, and Stone for creating a big, glitzy fun-fest that will be absolutely untouchable by any high-school drama department. Oh, and if the shows are already sold out or the tickets too dear, take heart that a movie adaptation is supposedly in the works. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see stgpresents.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 10.) GAVIN BORCHERT The Paramount, 911 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101 $45 and up Wednesday, August 6, 2014

• 

Wooden O Again Seattle Shakespeare Co. is committed to outdoor productions of the Bard, and this summer’s offerings are The Two Gentlemen of Verona and Julius Caesar. The former, obviously, is a little more family friendly, with Jason Marr and Conner Neddersen, respectively, as BFFs Proteus and Valentine, whose parting triggers a series of love notes, saucy servants, disapproving fathers, misplaced affections, inpudant servants, mistaken identites, loveable brigands, premature announcements-of-death, and cross-dressing. David Quicksall directs. As for the Roman tragedy Julius Caesar, directed by Vanessa Miller, this will be an all-female production, with Therese Diekhans as the doomed overreaching tyrant, Suzanne Bouchard as Brutus, and Amy Thone as Cassius. (See seattleshakespeare.org for park locations and schedule.) BRIAN MILLER Free Wednesday, August 6, 2014

An Evening of One-Acts This periodic series presents works by Steve Martin, Sam Shepard, and Woody Allen. R. Hamilton Wright directs them all, with proven stage talent you’ve seen during the prior season. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $15-$51 Wednesday, August 6, 2014, 7:30pm

Flipside Comedy Show Stand-up every Wednesday at this bastion of old-school Seattle charm. 13 Coins, 125 Boren Ave. N., Seattle See website Wednesday, August 6, 2014, 8pm

Duos Comedy Showcase Unexpected Productions presents comedians two at a time. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $5 Wednesday, August 6, 2014, 8:30pm

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Thursday, August 7, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Thursday, August 7, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Thursday, August 7, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Thursday, August 7, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Thursday, August 7, 2014

• 

Jane Eyre Musical theater has had some success with neglected orphans (Annie or Oliver!, anyone?), so an adaptation of Jane Eyre was probably inevitable. Charlotte Bronte’s 1847 novel is, after all, one of the earliest female coming-of-age tales ever told, set decades prior during the Georgian period. The show premiered on Broadway 14 years ago, and it might sound like a slog. Quite the opposite. Directed by Karen Lund, this production moves quickly and seamlessly through Jane’s early tale of woe. The show ((created by Paul Gordon and John Caird) focuses on our heroine’s middle period, after Jane is hired to work as a governess at the pleasure of apparent bachelor Edward Fairfax Rochester. Art Anderson’s Rochester is a manifold pleasure to behold. He sings well, commands the stage, and mugs for the audience with assurance. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Jessica Spencer, who turns in an uneven performance as the grown Jane. (Abi Brittle plays defiant 10-year-old Jane.) Too often her Jane seems bewildered and lost in her moral and spiritual upheaval; it’s difficult to see the spark that draws Rochester near. Even so, during the song “Painting Her Portrait,” Spencer gives a jaw-dropping performance, the seeds sown during Jane’s abusive childhood coming to fruition. It is a moving and frightening episode of self-doubt. (7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 16.) MARK BAUMGARTEN Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle $15-$40 Thursday, August 7, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Thursday, August 7, 2014

Parlor Live Comedy Club See website for schedule. The Parlor Collection, 700 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue $15-$30 Thursday, August 7, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Thursday, August 7, 2014

The Amish Project Jessica Dickey’s stage retelling of the 2006 Nickel Mines Amish schoolhouse shooting. Opens July 24. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 9. Isaac Studio Theatre, 208 N. 85th St. $15-$25 Thursday, August 7, 2014

• 

The Book of Mormon Tickets went fast when this show toured through town in January of last year, and you’ll have to be quick on the mouse to book a seat for this return engagement. Things this hit show’s creators-Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez-hate: received wisdom, Disney plasticity, Johnnie Cochran, and condescension from anyone anywhere on the politico-religious spectrum. Things they love: production numbers. Their Tony-winning musical follows two fresh-faced Mormons, dorky, porky Elder Cunningham and square-jawed, self-adoring Elder Price, on their first mission to Uganda. Discovering that his confabulated Mormon myths draw converts even more effectively than the ones in his titular Book, Cunningham wreaks havoc in the village. For most of the evening, the combination of perky tunes (by Lopez), jazz hands, and verbal atrocities keeps the show bouncing along expertly. Then Book takes off to a new, exhilarating, hilariously profane dimension when the Ugandans reinterpret, in a show-within-a-show, all that Cunningham has taught them. Credit goes to Parker, Lopez, and Stone for creating a big, glitzy fun-fest that will be absolutely untouchable by any high-school drama department. Oh, and if the shows are already sold out or the tickets too dear, take heart that a movie adaptation is supposedly in the works. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see stgpresents.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 10.) GAVIN BORCHERT The Paramount, 911 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101 $45 and up Thursday, August 7, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Thursday, August 7, 2014

Urinetown Balagan Theatre and Seattle Musical Theatre collaborate on this satirical musical about a city where “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 24. Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, $5-$35 Thursday, August 7, 2014

• 

Wooden O Again Seattle Shakespeare Co. is committed to outdoor productions of the Bard, and this summer’s offerings are The Two Gentlemen of Verona and Julius Caesar. The former, obviously, is a little more family friendly, with Jason Marr and Conner Neddersen, respectively, as BFFs Proteus and Valentine, whose parting triggers a series of love notes, saucy servants, disapproving fathers, misplaced affections, inpudant servants, mistaken identites, loveable brigands, premature announcements-of-death, and cross-dressing. David Quicksall directs. As for the Roman tragedy Julius Caesar, directed by Vanessa Miller, this will be an all-female production, with Therese Diekhans as the doomed overreaching tyrant, Suzanne Bouchard as Brutus, and Amy Thone as Cassius. (See seattleshakespeare.org for park locations and schedule.) BRIAN MILLER Free Thursday, August 7, 2014

An Evening of One-Acts This periodic series presents works by Steve Martin, Sam Shepard, and Woody Allen. R. Hamilton Wright directs them all, with proven stage talent you’ve seen during the prior season. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $15-$51 Thursday, August 7, 2014, 7:30pm

Tomfoolery A revue of satirical songs of the incomparable Tom Lehrer. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., Aug. 7- Sun., Aug. 10. Stop Gap Studio Theatre, Carlson Theater Building, Bellevue College campus, 3000 Landerholm Circle S.E., Bellevue $10-$12 Thursday, August 7, 2014, 7:30pm

Attack of the Killer Murder of . . . Death “Agatha Christie meets Roger Corman” in this mystery sendup, set on a movie set in 1958. Opens July 18. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Theater Schmeater, 2125 Third Ave. $18-$25 Thursday, August 7, 2014, 8pm

Balconies Gamers and politicos trying to party in adjoining apartments clash in Scotto Moore’s screwball comedy. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. plus Mon., Aug. 11. Ends Aug. 30. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$20 Thursday, August 7, 2014, 8pm

Wise Guys Jet City Improv’s salute to mob movies. Opens July 10. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Fri. Ends Aug. 22. Historic University Theater, 5510 University Way N.E. $12-$15 Thursday, August 7, 2014, 8pm

Improv Anonymous: The Harold A narrative improv format created by legendary improv teacher Del Close.  Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $7 Thursday, August 7, 2014, 8:30pm

14/48: Outdoors Fourteen plays, that is, created from scratch in 48 hours,  al fresco. Opens Aug. 8. 8 & 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Seattle Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. (Seattle Center), Seattle, WA 98109 Various prices; see website Friday, August 8, 2014

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Friday, August 8, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Friday, August 8, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Friday, August 8, 2014

ComedySportz Seattle Comedy Group moves their improv show to the former Empty Space. 8 & 10 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Atlas Theater, 3509 Fremont Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103 $14 Friday, August 8, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Friday, August 8, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Friday, August 8, 2014

Hello, Dolly! That meddling matchmaker is at it again. Opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m.Thurs.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 17. WSHS Theater, 3000 California Ave. S.W. $15-$20 Friday, August 8, 2014

• 

Jane Eyre Musical theater has had some success with neglected orphans (Annie or Oliver!, anyone?), so an adaptation of Jane Eyre was probably inevitable. Charlotte Bronte’s 1847 novel is, after all, one of the earliest female coming-of-age tales ever told, set decades prior during the Georgian period. The show premiered on Broadway 14 years ago, and it might sound like a slog. Quite the opposite. Directed by Karen Lund, this production moves quickly and seamlessly through Jane’s early tale of woe. The show ((created by Paul Gordon and John Caird) focuses on our heroine’s middle period, after Jane is hired to work as a governess at the pleasure of apparent bachelor Edward Fairfax Rochester. Art Anderson’s Rochester is a manifold pleasure to behold. He sings well, commands the stage, and mugs for the audience with assurance. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Jessica Spencer, who turns in an uneven performance as the grown Jane. (Abi Brittle plays defiant 10-year-old Jane.) Too often her Jane seems bewildered and lost in her moral and spiritual upheaval; it’s difficult to see the spark that draws Rochester near. Even so, during the song “Painting Her Portrait,” Spencer gives a jaw-dropping performance, the seeds sown during Jane’s abusive childhood coming to fruition. It is a moving and frightening episode of self-doubt. (7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 16.) MARK BAUMGARTEN Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle $15-$40 Friday, August 8, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Friday, August 8, 2014

Parlor Live Comedy Club See website for schedule. The Parlor Collection, 700 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue $15-$30 Friday, August 8, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Friday, August 8, 2014

The Amish Project Jessica Dickey’s stage retelling of the 2006 Nickel Mines Amish schoolhouse shooting. Opens July 24. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 9. Isaac Studio Theatre, 208 N. 85th St. $15-$25 Friday, August 8, 2014

• 

The Book of Mormon Tickets went fast when this show toured through town in January of last year, and you’ll have to be quick on the mouse to book a seat for this return engagement. Things this hit show’s creators-Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez-hate: received wisdom, Disney plasticity, Johnnie Cochran, and condescension from anyone anywhere on the politico-religious spectrum. Things they love: production numbers. Their Tony-winning musical follows two fresh-faced Mormons, dorky, porky Elder Cunningham and square-jawed, self-adoring Elder Price, on their first mission to Uganda. Discovering that his confabulated Mormon myths draw converts even more effectively than the ones in his titular Book, Cunningham wreaks havoc in the village. For most of the evening, the combination of perky tunes (by Lopez), jazz hands, and verbal atrocities keeps the show bouncing along expertly. Then Book takes off to a new, exhilarating, hilariously profane dimension when the Ugandans reinterpret, in a show-within-a-show, all that Cunningham has taught them. Credit goes to Parker, Lopez, and Stone for creating a big, glitzy fun-fest that will be absolutely untouchable by any high-school drama department. Oh, and if the shows are already sold out or the tickets too dear, take heart that a movie adaptation is supposedly in the works. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see stgpresents.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 10.) GAVIN BORCHERT The Paramount, 911 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101 $45 and up Friday, August 8, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Friday, August 8, 2014

The Taming of the Shrew A pirate-themed look at Shakespeare’s battle of the sexes, presented by Seattle Public Theater’s Youth Program. 7 p.m. Fri., Aug. 8, 2 & 7 p.m. Sat., Aug. 9, 2 p.m. Sun., Aug. 10. Seattle Public Theater at the Bathhouse, 7312 W. Green Lake Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103 Donation Friday, August 8, 2014

The Wedding Singer A musical version of the 1985-set Adam Sandler vehicle. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 10. Renton Civic Theatre, 507 S. Third St., Renton, WA 98057 $15 Friday, August 8, 2014

Urinetown Balagan Theatre and Seattle Musical Theatre collaborate on this satirical musical about a city where “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 24. Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, $5-$35 Friday, August 8, 2014

• 

Wooden O Again Seattle Shakespeare Co. is committed to outdoor productions of the Bard, and this summer’s offerings are The Two Gentlemen of Verona and Julius Caesar. The former, obviously, is a little more family friendly, with Jason Marr and Conner Neddersen, respectively, as BFFs Proteus and Valentine, whose parting triggers a series of love notes, saucy servants, disapproving fathers, misplaced affections, inpudant servants, mistaken identites, loveable brigands, premature announcements-of-death, and cross-dressing. David Quicksall directs. As for the Roman tragedy Julius Caesar, directed by Vanessa Miller, this will be an all-female production, with Therese Diekhans as the doomed overreaching tyrant, Suzanne Bouchard as Brutus, and Amy Thone as Cassius. (See seattleshakespeare.org for park locations and schedule.) BRIAN MILLER Free Friday, August 8, 2014

PROK Open Mike Sign up for this generally zany and enjoyable evening, when professionals are also known to drop by.  The People’s Republic Kafe, 1718 12th Ave., Seattle Free Friday, August 8, 2014, 6:30pm

Tomfoolery A revue of satirical songs of the incomparable Tom Lehrer. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., Aug. 7- Sun., Aug. 10. Stop Gap Studio Theatre, Carlson Theater Building, Bellevue College campus, 3000 Landerholm Circle S.E., Bellevue $10-$12 Friday, August 8, 2014, 7:30pm

Attack of the Killer Murder of . . . Death “Agatha Christie meets Roger Corman” in this mystery sendup, set on a movie set in 1958. Opens July 18. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Theater Schmeater, 2125 Third Ave. $18-$25 Friday, August 8, 2014, 8pm

Balconies Gamers and politicos trying to party in adjoining apartments clash in Scotto Moore’s screwball comedy. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. plus Mon., Aug. 11. Ends Aug. 30. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$20 Friday, August 8, 2014, 8pm

Into the Woods Fractured fairy tales, with a dark Sondheim twist, via Aurora Theatre Company. Opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Ends Aug. 23. Shoreline City Hall, Outdoor Amphitheatre, 17500 Midvale Ave. N., Shoreline Free w/admission ($4-$6) Friday, August 8, 2014, 8pm

Wise Guys Jet City Improv’s salute to mob movies. Opens July 10. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Fri. Ends Aug. 22. Historic University Theater, 5510 University Way N.E. $12-$15 Friday, August 8, 2014, 8pm

Searching for the Super Scene Fast-paced improv from Unexpected Productions. 8:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $12-$15 Friday, August 8, 2014, 8:30pm

TheatreSports Unexpected Productions’ long-running (since 1983!) improv comedy show, pitting two teams against each other in front of a panel of judges. 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $15 Friday, August 8, 2014, 10:30pm

14/48: Outdoors Fourteen plays, that is, created from scratch in 48 hours,  al fresco. Opens Aug. 8. 8 & 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Seattle Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. (Seattle Center), Seattle, WA 98109 Various prices; see website Saturday, August 9, 2014

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Saturday, August 9, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Saturday, August 9, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Saturday, August 9, 2014

ComedySportz Seattle Comedy Group moves their improv show to the former Empty Space. 8 & 10 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Atlas Theater, 3509 Fremont Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103 $14 Saturday, August 9, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Saturday, August 9, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Saturday, August 9, 2014

Hello, Dolly! That meddling matchmaker is at it again. Opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m.Thurs.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 17. WSHS Theater, 3000 California Ave. S.W. $15-$20 Saturday, August 9, 2014

• 

Jane Eyre Musical theater has had some success with neglected orphans (Annie or Oliver!, anyone?), so an adaptation of Jane Eyre was probably inevitable. Charlotte Bronte’s 1847 novel is, after all, one of the earliest female coming-of-age tales ever told, set decades prior during the Georgian period. The show premiered on Broadway 14 years ago, and it might sound like a slog. Quite the opposite. Directed by Karen Lund, this production moves quickly and seamlessly through Jane’s early tale of woe. The show ((created by Paul Gordon and John Caird) focuses on our heroine’s middle period, after Jane is hired to work as a governess at the pleasure of apparent bachelor Edward Fairfax Rochester. Art Anderson’s Rochester is a manifold pleasure to behold. He sings well, commands the stage, and mugs for the audience with assurance. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Jessica Spencer, who turns in an uneven performance as the grown Jane. (Abi Brittle plays defiant 10-year-old Jane.) Too often her Jane seems bewildered and lost in her moral and spiritual upheaval; it’s difficult to see the spark that draws Rochester near. Even so, during the song “Painting Her Portrait,” Spencer gives a jaw-dropping performance, the seeds sown during Jane’s abusive childhood coming to fruition. It is a moving and frightening episode of self-doubt. (7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 16.) MARK BAUMGARTEN Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle $15-$40 Saturday, August 9, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Saturday, August 9, 2014

Parlor Live Comedy Club See website for schedule. The Parlor Collection, 700 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue $15-$30 Saturday, August 9, 2014

Pink Door Cabaret Trapeze performances (6:15-8:45 p.m.) by Bridget Gunning (Sun.) and Tanya Brno (Mon.). Saturdays, go “Behind the Pink Door” (11 p.m.,). See website for full details.   The Pink Door, 1919 Post Alley, Seattle $20 cover Saturday, August 9, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Saturday, August 9, 2014

The Amish Project Jessica Dickey’s stage retelling of the 2006 Nickel Mines Amish schoolhouse shooting. Opens July 24. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 9. Isaac Studio Theatre, 208 N. 85th St. $15-$25 Saturday, August 9, 2014

• 

The Book of Mormon Tickets went fast when this show toured through town in January of last year, and you’ll have to be quick on the mouse to book a seat for this return engagement. Things this hit show’s creators-Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez-hate: received wisdom, Disney plasticity, Johnnie Cochran, and condescension from anyone anywhere on the politico-religious spectrum. Things they love: production numbers. Their Tony-winning musical follows two fresh-faced Mormons, dorky, porky Elder Cunningham and square-jawed, self-adoring Elder Price, on their first mission to Uganda. Discovering that his confabulated Mormon myths draw converts even more effectively than the ones in his titular Book, Cunningham wreaks havoc in the village. For most of the evening, the combination of perky tunes (by Lopez), jazz hands, and verbal atrocities keeps the show bouncing along expertly. Then Book takes off to a new, exhilarating, hilariously profane dimension when the Ugandans reinterpret, in a show-within-a-show, all that Cunningham has taught them. Credit goes to Parker, Lopez, and Stone for creating a big, glitzy fun-fest that will be absolutely untouchable by any high-school drama department. Oh, and if the shows are already sold out or the tickets too dear, take heart that a movie adaptation is supposedly in the works. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see stgpresents.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 10.) GAVIN BORCHERT The Paramount, 911 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101 $45 and up Saturday, August 9, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Saturday, August 9, 2014

The Taming of the Shrew A pirate-themed look at Shakespeare’s battle of the sexes, presented by Seattle Public Theater’s Youth Program. 7 p.m. Fri., Aug. 8, 2 & 7 p.m. Sat., Aug. 9, 2 p.m. Sun., Aug. 10. Seattle Public Theater at the Bathhouse, 7312 W. Green Lake Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103 Donation Saturday, August 9, 2014

The Wedding Singer A musical version of the 1985-set Adam Sandler vehicle. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 10. Renton Civic Theatre, 507 S. Third St., Renton, WA 98057 $15 Saturday, August 9, 2014

Urinetown Balagan Theatre and Seattle Musical Theatre collaborate on this satirical musical about a city where “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 24. Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, $5-$35 Saturday, August 9, 2014

• 

Wooden O Again Seattle Shakespeare Co. is committed to outdoor productions of the Bard, and this summer’s offerings are The Two Gentlemen of Verona and Julius Caesar. The former, obviously, is a little more family friendly, with Jason Marr and Conner Neddersen, respectively, as BFFs Proteus and Valentine, whose parting triggers a series of love notes, saucy servants, disapproving fathers, misplaced affections, inpudant servants, mistaken identites, loveable brigands, premature announcements-of-death, and cross-dressing. David Quicksall directs. As for the Roman tragedy Julius Caesar, directed by Vanessa Miller, this will be an all-female production, with Therese Diekhans as the doomed overreaching tyrant, Suzanne Bouchard as Brutus, and Amy Thone as Cassius. (See seattleshakespeare.org for park locations and schedule.) BRIAN MILLER Free Saturday, August 9, 2014

Tomfoolery A revue of satirical songs of the incomparable Tom Lehrer. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., Aug. 7- Sun., Aug. 10. Stop Gap Studio Theatre, Carlson Theater Building, Bellevue College campus, 3000 Landerholm Circle S.E., Bellevue $10-$12 Saturday, August 9, 2014, 7:30pm

Attack of the Killer Murder of . . . Death “Agatha Christie meets Roger Corman” in this mystery sendup, set on a movie set in 1958. Opens July 18. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Theater Schmeater, 2125 Third Ave. $18-$25 Saturday, August 9, 2014, 8pm

Balconies Gamers and politicos trying to party in adjoining apartments clash in Scotto Moore’s screwball comedy. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. plus Mon., Aug. 11. Ends Aug. 30. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$20 Saturday, August 9, 2014, 8pm

Into the Woods Fractured fairy tales, with a dark Sondheim twist, via Aurora Theatre Company. Opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Ends Aug. 23. Shoreline City Hall, Outdoor Amphitheatre, 17500 Midvale Ave. N., Shoreline Free w/admission ($4-$6) Saturday, August 9, 2014, 8pm

Searching for the Super Scene Fast-paced improv from Unexpected Productions. 8:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $12-$15 Saturday, August 9, 2014, 8:30pm

TheatreSports Unexpected Productions’ long-running (since 1983!) improv comedy show, pitting two teams against each other in front of a panel of judges. 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $15 Saturday, August 9, 2014, 10:30pm

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Sunday, August 10, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Sunday, August 10, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Sunday, August 10, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Sunday, August 10, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Sunday, August 10, 2014

Hello, Dolly! That meddling matchmaker is at it again. Opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m.Thurs.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 17. WSHS Theater, 3000 California Ave. S.W. $15-$20 Sunday, August 10, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Sunday, August 10, 2014

Parlor Live Comedy Club See website for schedule. The Parlor Collection, 700 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue $15-$30 Sunday, August 10, 2014

Pink Door Cabaret Trapeze performances (6:15-8:45 p.m.) by Bridget Gunning (Sun.) and Tanya Brno (Mon.). Saturdays, go “Behind the Pink Door” (11 p.m.,). See website for full details.   The Pink Door, 1919 Post Alley, Seattle $20 cover Sunday, August 10, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Sunday, August 10, 2014

• 

The Book of Mormon Tickets went fast when this show toured through town in January of last year, and you’ll have to be quick on the mouse to book a seat for this return engagement. Things this hit show’s creators-Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez-hate: received wisdom, Disney plasticity, Johnnie Cochran, and condescension from anyone anywhere on the politico-religious spectrum. Things they love: production numbers. Their Tony-winning musical follows two fresh-faced Mormons, dorky, porky Elder Cunningham and square-jawed, self-adoring Elder Price, on their first mission to Uganda. Discovering that his confabulated Mormon myths draw converts even more effectively than the ones in his titular Book, Cunningham wreaks havoc in the village. For most of the evening, the combination of perky tunes (by Lopez), jazz hands, and verbal atrocities keeps the show bouncing along expertly. Then Book takes off to a new, exhilarating, hilariously profane dimension when the Ugandans reinterpret, in a show-within-a-show, all that Cunningham has taught them. Credit goes to Parker, Lopez, and Stone for creating a big, glitzy fun-fest that will be absolutely untouchable by any high-school drama department. Oh, and if the shows are already sold out or the tickets too dear, take heart that a movie adaptation is supposedly in the works. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see stgpresents.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 10.) GAVIN BORCHERT The Paramount, 911 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101 $45 and up Sunday, August 10, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Sunday, August 10, 2014

The Taming of the Shrew A pirate-themed look at Shakespeare’s battle of the sexes, presented by Seattle Public Theater’s Youth Program. 7 p.m. Fri., Aug. 8, 2 & 7 p.m. Sat., Aug. 9, 2 p.m. Sun., Aug. 10. Seattle Public Theater at the Bathhouse, 7312 W. Green Lake Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103 Donation Sunday, August 10, 2014

The Wedding Singer A musical version of the 1985-set Adam Sandler vehicle. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 10. Renton Civic Theatre, 507 S. Third St., Renton, WA 98057 $15 Sunday, August 10, 2014

Urinetown Balagan Theatre and Seattle Musical Theatre collaborate on this satirical musical about a city where “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 24. Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, $5-$35 Sunday, August 10, 2014

• 

Wooden O Again Seattle Shakespeare Co. is committed to outdoor productions of the Bard, and this summer’s offerings are The Two Gentlemen of Verona and Julius Caesar. The former, obviously, is a little more family friendly, with Jason Marr and Conner Neddersen, respectively, as BFFs Proteus and Valentine, whose parting triggers a series of love notes, saucy servants, disapproving fathers, misplaced affections, inpudant servants, mistaken identites, loveable brigands, premature announcements-of-death, and cross-dressing. David Quicksall directs. As for the Roman tragedy Julius Caesar, directed by Vanessa Miller, this will be an all-female production, with Therese Diekhans as the doomed overreaching tyrant, Suzanne Bouchard as Brutus, and Amy Thone as Cassius. (See seattleshakespeare.org for park locations and schedule.) BRIAN MILLER Free Sunday, August 10, 2014

Wicked Wiz of Oz A 45-minute mashup of your favorite Oz musicals, part of the “Mimosas With Mama” drag brunch. Narwhal, 1118 E. Pike St., Seattle $15-$20 Sunday, August 10, 2014, 1:30pm

An Evening of One-Acts This periodic series presents works by Steve Martin, Sam Shepard, and Woody Allen. R. Hamilton Wright directs them all, with proven stage talent you’ve seen during the prior season. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $15-$51 Sunday, August 10, 2014, 2pm

Tomfoolery A revue of satirical songs of the incomparable Tom Lehrer. 7:30 p.m. Thurs., Aug. 7- Sun., Aug. 10. Stop Gap Studio Theatre, Carlson Theater Building, Bellevue College campus, 3000 Landerholm Circle S.E., Bellevue $10-$12 Sunday, August 10, 2014, 7:30pm

Piggyback Stand-up and improv unite. 8:30 p.m. Sun.  Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $10 Sunday, August 10, 2014, 8:30pm

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Monday, August 11, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Monday, August 11, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Monday, August 11, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Monday, August 11, 2014

Pink Door Cabaret Trapeze performances (6:15-8:45 p.m.) by Bridget Gunning (Sun.) and Tanya Brno (Mon.). Saturdays, go “Behind the Pink Door” (11 p.m.,). See website for full details.   The Pink Door, 1919 Post Alley, Seattle $20 cover Monday, August 11, 2014

Balconies Gamers and politicos trying to party in adjoining apartments clash in Scotto Moore’s screwball comedy. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. plus Mon., Aug. 11. Ends Aug. 30. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$20 Monday, August 11, 2014, 8pm

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Comedy Womb This “female-focused but not female-exclusive” show includes a headliner and an open-mike segment, in the Grotto underneath the Rendezvous. JewelBox Theater at the Rendezvous, 2322 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 $5 Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Tuesday, August 12, 2014

Summer Shorts Preview readings of work from Studio4Seattle’s September short-plays festival. Seattle Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. (Seattle Center), Seattle, WA 98109 Donation Tuesday, August 12, 2014, 7pm

An Evening of One-Acts This periodic series presents works by Steve Martin, Sam Shepard, and Woody Allen. R. Hamilton Wright directs them all, with proven stage talent you’ve seen during the prior season. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $15-$51 Tuesday, August 12, 2014, 7:30pm

Caught One-Handed Noah Duffy’s solo comedy about growing up gay, fundamentalist, and horny. Opens Aug. 12. 8 p.m. Tues.-Wed. Ends Aug. 27. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$10 Tuesday, August 12, 2014, 8pm

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An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Comedy Womb This “female-focused but not female-exclusive” show includes a headliner and an open-mike segment, in the Grotto underneath the Rendezvous. JewelBox Theater at the Rendezvous, 2322 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 $5 Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Wednesday, August 13, 2014

• 

Jane Eyre Musical theater has had some success with neglected orphans (Annie or Oliver!, anyone?), so an adaptation of Jane Eyre was probably inevitable. Charlotte Bronte’s 1847 novel is, after all, one of the earliest female coming-of-age tales ever told, set decades prior during the Georgian period. The show premiered on Broadway 14 years ago, and it might sound like a slog. Quite the opposite. Directed by Karen Lund, this production moves quickly and seamlessly through Jane’s early tale of woe. The show ((created by Paul Gordon and John Caird) focuses on our heroine’s middle period, after Jane is hired to work as a governess at the pleasure of apparent bachelor Edward Fairfax Rochester. Art Anderson’s Rochester is a manifold pleasure to behold. He sings well, commands the stage, and mugs for the audience with assurance. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Jessica Spencer, who turns in an uneven performance as the grown Jane. (Abi Brittle plays defiant 10-year-old Jane.) Too often her Jane seems bewildered and lost in her moral and spiritual upheaval; it’s difficult to see the spark that draws Rochester near. Even so, during the song “Painting Her Portrait,” Spencer gives a jaw-dropping performance, the seeds sown during Jane’s abusive childhood coming to fruition. It is a moving and frightening episode of self-doubt. (7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 16.) MARK BAUMGARTEN Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle $15-$40 Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Wednesday, August 13, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Wednesday, August 13, 2014

An Evening of One-Acts This periodic series presents works by Steve Martin, Sam Shepard, and Woody Allen. R. Hamilton Wright directs them all, with proven stage talent you’ve seen during the prior season. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $15-$51 Wednesday, August 13, 2014, 7:30pm

Caught One-Handed Noah Duffy’s solo comedy about growing up gay, fundamentalist, and horny. Opens Aug. 12. 8 p.m. Tues.-Wed. Ends Aug. 27. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$10 Wednesday, August 13, 2014, 8pm

Flipside Comedy Show Stand-up every Wednesday at this bastion of old-school Seattle charm. 13 Coins, 125 Boren Ave. N., Seattle See website Wednesday, August 13, 2014, 8pm

Duos Comedy Showcase Unexpected Productions presents comedians two at a time. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $5 Wednesday, August 13, 2014, 8:30pm

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An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Thursday, August 14, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Thursday, August 14, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Thursday, August 14, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Thursday, August 14, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Thursday, August 14, 2014

Hello, Dolly! That meddling matchmaker is at it again. Opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m.Thurs.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 17. WSHS Theater, 3000 California Ave. S.W. $15-$20 Thursday, August 14, 2014

• 

Jane Eyre Musical theater has had some success with neglected orphans (Annie or Oliver!, anyone?), so an adaptation of Jane Eyre was probably inevitable. Charlotte Bronte’s 1847 novel is, after all, one of the earliest female coming-of-age tales ever told, set decades prior during the Georgian period. The show premiered on Broadway 14 years ago, and it might sound like a slog. Quite the opposite. Directed by Karen Lund, this production moves quickly and seamlessly through Jane’s early tale of woe. The show ((created by Paul Gordon and John Caird) focuses on our heroine’s middle period, after Jane is hired to work as a governess at the pleasure of apparent bachelor Edward Fairfax Rochester. Art Anderson’s Rochester is a manifold pleasure to behold. He sings well, commands the stage, and mugs for the audience with assurance. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Jessica Spencer, who turns in an uneven performance as the grown Jane. (Abi Brittle plays defiant 10-year-old Jane.) Too often her Jane seems bewildered and lost in her moral and spiritual upheaval; it’s difficult to see the spark that draws Rochester near. Even so, during the song “Painting Her Portrait,” Spencer gives a jaw-dropping performance, the seeds sown during Jane’s abusive childhood coming to fruition. It is a moving and frightening episode of self-doubt. (7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 16.) MARK BAUMGARTEN Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle $15-$40 Thursday, August 14, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Thursday, August 14, 2014

Parlor Live Comedy Club See website for schedule. The Parlor Collection, 700 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue $15-$30 Thursday, August 14, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Thursday, August 14, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Thursday, August 14, 2014

Urinetown Balagan Theatre and Seattle Musical Theatre collaborate on this satirical musical about a city where “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 24. Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, $5-$35 Thursday, August 14, 2014

An Evening of One-Acts This periodic series presents works by Steve Martin, Sam Shepard, and Woody Allen. R. Hamilton Wright directs them all, with proven stage talent you’ve seen during the prior season. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $15-$51 Thursday, August 14, 2014, 7:30pm

Attack of the Killer Murder of . . . Death “Agatha Christie meets Roger Corman” in this mystery sendup, set on a movie set in 1958. Opens July 18. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Theater Schmeater, 2125 Third Ave. $18-$25 Thursday, August 14, 2014, 8pm

Balconies Gamers and politicos trying to party in adjoining apartments clash in Scotto Moore’s screwball comedy. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. plus Mon., Aug. 11. Ends Aug. 30. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$20 Thursday, August 14, 2014, 8pm

Wise Guys Jet City Improv’s salute to mob movies. Opens July 10. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Fri. Ends Aug. 22. Historic University Theater, 5510 University Way N.E. $12-$15 Thursday, August 14, 2014, 8pm

Improv Anonymous: The Harold A narrative improv format created by legendary improv teacher Del Close.  Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $7 Thursday, August 14, 2014, 8:30pm

14/48: Outdoors Fourteen plays, that is, created from scratch in 48 hours,  al fresco. Opens Aug. 8. 8 & 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Seattle Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. (Seattle Center), Seattle, WA 98109 Various prices; see website Friday, August 15, 2014

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Friday, August 15, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Friday, August 15, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Friday, August 15, 2014

ComedySportz Seattle Comedy Group moves their improv show to the former Empty Space. 8 & 10 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Atlas Theater, 3509 Fremont Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103 $14 Friday, August 15, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Friday, August 15, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Friday, August 15, 2014

Hello, Dolly! That meddling matchmaker is at it again. Opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m.Thurs.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 17. WSHS Theater, 3000 California Ave. S.W. $15-$20 Friday, August 15, 2014

• 

Jane Eyre Musical theater has had some success with neglected orphans (Annie or Oliver!, anyone?), so an adaptation of Jane Eyre was probably inevitable. Charlotte Bronte’s 1847 novel is, after all, one of the earliest female coming-of-age tales ever told, set decades prior during the Georgian period. The show premiered on Broadway 14 years ago, and it might sound like a slog. Quite the opposite. Directed by Karen Lund, this production moves quickly and seamlessly through Jane’s early tale of woe. The show ((created by Paul Gordon and John Caird) focuses on our heroine’s middle period, after Jane is hired to work as a governess at the pleasure of apparent bachelor Edward Fairfax Rochester. Art Anderson’s Rochester is a manifold pleasure to behold. He sings well, commands the stage, and mugs for the audience with assurance. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Jessica Spencer, who turns in an uneven performance as the grown Jane. (Abi Brittle plays defiant 10-year-old Jane.) Too often her Jane seems bewildered and lost in her moral and spiritual upheaval; it’s difficult to see the spark that draws Rochester near. Even so, during the song “Painting Her Portrait,” Spencer gives a jaw-dropping performance, the seeds sown during Jane’s abusive childhood coming to fruition. It is a moving and frightening episode of self-doubt. (7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 16.) MARK BAUMGARTEN Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle $15-$40 Friday, August 15, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Friday, August 15, 2014

Parlor Live Comedy Club See website for schedule. The Parlor Collection, 700 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue $15-$30 Friday, August 15, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Friday, August 15, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Friday, August 15, 2014

Urinetown Balagan Theatre and Seattle Musical Theatre collaborate on this satirical musical about a city where “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 24. Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, $5-$35 Friday, August 15, 2014

PROK Open Mike Sign up for this generally zany and enjoyable evening, when professionals are also known to drop by.  The People’s Republic Kafe, 1718 12th Ave., Seattle Free Friday, August 15, 2014, 6:30pm

Attack of the Killer Murder of . . . Death “Agatha Christie meets Roger Corman” in this mystery sendup, set on a movie set in 1958. Opens July 18. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Theater Schmeater, 2125 Third Ave. $18-$25 Friday, August 15, 2014, 8pm

Balconies Gamers and politicos trying to party in adjoining apartments clash in Scotto Moore’s screwball comedy. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. plus Mon., Aug. 11. Ends Aug. 30. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$20 Friday, August 15, 2014, 8pm

Into the Woods Fractured fairy tales, with a dark Sondheim twist, via Aurora Theatre Company. Opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Ends Aug. 23. Shoreline City Hall, Outdoor Amphitheatre, 17500 Midvale Ave. N., Shoreline Free w/admission ($4-$6) Friday, August 15, 2014, 8pm

Wise Guys Jet City Improv’s salute to mob movies. Opens July 10. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Fri. Ends Aug. 22. Historic University Theater, 5510 University Way N.E. $12-$15 Friday, August 15, 2014, 8pm

Searching for the Super Scene Fast-paced improv from Unexpected Productions. 8:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $12-$15 Friday, August 15, 2014, 8:30pm

TheatreSports Unexpected Productions’ long-running (since 1983!) improv comedy show, pitting two teams against each other in front of a panel of judges. 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $15 Friday, August 15, 2014, 10:30pm

14/48: Outdoors Fourteen plays, that is, created from scratch in 48 hours,  al fresco. Opens Aug. 8. 8 & 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Seattle Repertory Theatre, 155 Mercer St. (Seattle Center), Seattle, WA 98109 Various prices; see website Saturday, August 16, 2014

• 

An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Saturday, August 16, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Saturday, August 16, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Saturday, August 16, 2014

ComedySportz Seattle Comedy Group moves their improv show to the former Empty Space. 8 & 10 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Atlas Theater, 3509 Fremont Ave. N., Seattle, WA 98103 $14 Saturday, August 16, 2014

Greenstage

Othello, Love’s Labours Lost, All’s Well That Ends Well, and The Comedy of Errors in various area parks, July 11-Aug. 16, all free. See greenstage.org for full schedule. Free Saturday, August 16, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Saturday, August 16, 2014

Hello, Dolly! That meddling matchmaker is at it again. Opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m.Thurs.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 17. WSHS Theater, 3000 California Ave. S.W. $15-$20 Saturday, August 16, 2014

• 

Jane Eyre Musical theater has had some success with neglected orphans (Annie or Oliver!, anyone?), so an adaptation of Jane Eyre was probably inevitable. Charlotte Bronte’s 1847 novel is, after all, one of the earliest female coming-of-age tales ever told, set decades prior during the Georgian period. The show premiered on Broadway 14 years ago, and it might sound like a slog. Quite the opposite. Directed by Karen Lund, this production moves quickly and seamlessly through Jane’s early tale of woe. The show ((created by Paul Gordon and John Caird) focuses on our heroine’s middle period, after Jane is hired to work as a governess at the pleasure of apparent bachelor Edward Fairfax Rochester. Art Anderson’s Rochester is a manifold pleasure to behold. He sings well, commands the stage, and mugs for the audience with assurance. Unfortunately the same cannot be said for Jessica Spencer, who turns in an uneven performance as the grown Jane. (Abi Brittle plays defiant 10-year-old Jane.) Too often her Jane seems bewildered and lost in her moral and spiritual upheaval; it’s difficult to see the spark that draws Rochester near. Even so, during the song “Painting Her Portrait,” Spencer gives a jaw-dropping performance, the seeds sown during Jane’s abusive childhood coming to fruition. It is a moving and frightening episode of self-doubt. (7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri., 2 & 8 p.m. Sat. Ends Aug. 16.) MARK BAUMGARTEN Taproot Theatre, 204 N. 85th St., Seattle $15-$40 Saturday, August 16, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Saturday, August 16, 2014

Parlor Live Comedy Club See website for schedule. The Parlor Collection, 700 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue $15-$30 Saturday, August 16, 2014

Pink Door Cabaret Trapeze performances (6:15-8:45 p.m.) by Bridget Gunning (Sun.) and Tanya Brno (Mon.). Saturdays, go “Behind the Pink Door” (11 p.m.,). See website for full details.   The Pink Door, 1919 Post Alley, Seattle $20 cover Saturday, August 16, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Saturday, August 16, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Saturday, August 16, 2014

Urinetown Balagan Theatre and Seattle Musical Theatre collaborate on this satirical musical about a city where “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 24. Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, $5-$35 Saturday, August 16, 2014

Attack of the Killer Murder of . . . Death “Agatha Christie meets Roger Corman” in this mystery sendup, set on a movie set in 1958. Opens July 18. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. Ends Aug. 16. Theater Schmeater, 2125 Third Ave. $18-$25 Saturday, August 16, 2014, 8pm

Balconies Gamers and politicos trying to party in adjoining apartments clash in Scotto Moore’s screwball comedy. Opens Aug. 1. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat. plus Mon., Aug. 11. Ends Aug. 30. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$20 Saturday, August 16, 2014, 8pm

Into the Woods Fractured fairy tales, with a dark Sondheim twist, via Aurora Theatre Company. Opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Ends Aug. 23. Shoreline City Hall, Outdoor Amphitheatre, 17500 Midvale Ave. N., Shoreline Free w/admission ($4-$6) Saturday, August 16, 2014, 8pm

Searching for the Super Scene Fast-paced improv from Unexpected Productions. 8:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $12-$15 Saturday, August 16, 2014, 8:30pm

TheatreSports Unexpected Productions’ long-running (since 1983!) improv comedy show, pitting two teams against each other in front of a panel of judges. 10:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $15 Saturday, August 16, 2014, 10:30pm

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An Evening of One Acts A confident cast, savvy direction by R. Hamilton Wright, and superior staging and effects boost this comely production beyond the generically titled sum of its parts. In Steve Martin’s Patter for the Floating Lady, a loquacious magician (David Foubert) attempts to charm (literally) his glamorous assistant (Jessica Skerritt) into loving him again, until her id-a hilariously malevolent cabaret entertainer played by Hana Lass-sets him straight. Woody Allen’s Riverside Drive raises the stakes when a charismatic street person (a fantastic Eric Ray Anderson) who self-characterizes as “an original, like Stravinsky, or ketchup,” corners a neurotic writer-Chris Ensweiler, uncannily channeling you-know-who-rehearsing to break up with his mistress. The very funny script depends on the skilled actors’ commitment to sell the implausible plot, which they do. The Unseen Hand, by Sam Shepard, takes place on the western fringe of nowhere, where we find Blue Morphan (a jovial Anderson). The preposterous story involves the return of Blue’s two brothers from at least one other time period, and the arrival of a creature named Willy from another galaxy. Lass manages to make Willy’s copious exposition about the civil war on his planet entertaining through top-notch physical comedy and clowning skills; otherwise it would have been excruciating. Although I am not crazy about this particular play, I don’t expect to ever see a better production of it. (Runs Tues.-Sun.; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 17.) MARGARET FRIEDMAN ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $44 and up ($20 every Tues.) Sunday, August 17, 2014

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Sunday, August 17, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Sunday, August 17, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Sunday, August 17, 2014

Hello, Dolly! That meddling matchmaker is at it again. Opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m.Thurs.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 17. WSHS Theater, 3000 California Ave. S.W. $15-$20 Sunday, August 17, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Sunday, August 17, 2014

Parlor Live Comedy Club See website for schedule. The Parlor Collection, 700 Bellevue Way N.E., Bellevue $15-$30 Sunday, August 17, 2014

Pink Door Cabaret Trapeze performances (6:15-8:45 p.m.) by Bridget Gunning (Sun.) and Tanya Brno (Mon.). Saturdays, go “Behind the Pink Door” (11 p.m.,). See website for full details.   The Pink Door, 1919 Post Alley, Seattle $20 cover Sunday, August 17, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Sunday, August 17, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Sunday, August 17, 2014

Urinetown Balagan Theatre and Seattle Musical Theatre collaborate on this satirical musical about a city where “It’s a Privilege to Pee.” Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. Ends Aug. 24. Seattle Musical Theatre at Magnuson Park, $5-$35 Sunday, August 17, 2014

Wicked Wiz of Oz A 45-minute mashup of your favorite Oz musicals, part of the “Mimosas With Mama” drag brunch. Narwhal, 1118 E. Pike St., Seattle $15-$20 Sunday, August 17, 2014, 1:30pm

An Evening of One-Acts This periodic series presents works by Steve Martin, Sam Shepard, and Woody Allen. R. Hamilton Wright directs them all, with proven stage talent you’ve seen during the prior season. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $15-$51 Sunday, August 17, 2014, 2pm

Piggyback Stand-up and improv unite. 8:30 p.m. Sun.  Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $10 Sunday, August 17, 2014, 8:30pm

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Monday, August 18, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Monday, August 18, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Monday, August 18, 2014

Pink Door Cabaret Trapeze performances (6:15-8:45 p.m.) by Bridget Gunning (Sun.) and Tanya Brno (Mon.). Saturdays, go “Behind the Pink Door” (11 p.m.,). See website for full details.   The Pink Door, 1919 Post Alley, Seattle $20 cover Monday, August 18, 2014

The School for Lies David Ives’ update of Moliere’s The Misanthrope. Previews Aug. 7-8, opens Aug. 9. 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., plus 7:30 p.m. Mon., Aug. 18. Ends Aug. 24. Center Theatre at the Armory, Seattle Center $15-$25 Monday, August 18, 2014, 7:30pm

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Comedy Womb This “female-focused but not female-exclusive” show includes a headliner and an open-mike segment, in the Grotto underneath the Rendezvous. JewelBox Theater at the Rendezvous, 2322 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 $5 Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Icicle Creek New Play Festival Allison Narver will direct The Change Room by Carly Mensch. Steven Dietz is both writer and director of Bloomsday, inspired by the life of James Joyce. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 General: $12 Festival Pass: $20 Teen Tix: $5 Tuesday, August 19, 2014, 7pm

Caught One-Handed Noah Duffy’s solo comedy about growing up gay, fundamentalist, and horny. Opens Aug. 12. 8 p.m. Tues.-Wed. Ends Aug. 27. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$10 Tuesday, August 19, 2014, 8pm

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Comedy Underground See website for complete schedule, including their “Monday Madness” open-mike night, 8 p.m. Comedy Underground, 109 S. Washington St., Seattle, WA 98104 $6 Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Comedy Womb This “female-focused but not female-exclusive” show includes a headliner and an open-mike segment, in the Grotto underneath the Rendezvous. JewelBox Theater at the Rendezvous, 2322 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 $5 Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Groucho Returns Back by popular demand, Frank Ferrante channels the slyly leering Marx Brother in this acclaimed show. Preview Aug. 7, opens Aug. 8. 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Sat. plus weekend matinees; see acttheatre.org for exact schedule. Ends Aug. 24. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 $25-$35 Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Laughs Stand-up and other comedy. See website for complete schedule, including open-mike night.  Laughs Comedy Spot, 12099 124th Ave. N.E., Kirkland, WA 98034 $10-$20 Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Teatro ZinZanni: When Sparks Fly Maestro Voronin headlines this mad-scientist-themed show. Opens June 6. Runs Thurs.-Sun. plus some Wed.; see zinzanni.com/seattle for exact schedule. Ends Sept. 21. Teatro ZinZanni, 222 Mercer St., Seattle $99 and up Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Icicle Creek New Play Festival Allison Narver will direct The Change Room by Carly Mensch. Steven Dietz is both writer and director of Bloomsday, inspired by the life of James Joyce. ACT Theatre, 700 Union St., Seattle, WA 98101 General: $12 Festival Pass: $20 Teen Tix: $5 Wednesday, August 20, 2014, 7pm

Family Affair Jennifer Jasper’s “sick, hilarious, and ultimately relatable” monthly cabaret on the theme of family. JewelBox Theater at the Rendezvous, 2322 Second Ave., Seattle, WA 98121 $10 Wednesday, August 20, 2014, 7:30pm

Caught One-Handed Noah Duffy’s solo comedy about growing up gay, fundamentalist, and horny. Opens Aug. 12. 8 p.m. Tues.-Wed. Ends Aug. 27. Annex Theatre, 1110 Pike St., Seattle, WA 98122 $5-$10 Wednesday, August 20, 2014, 8pm

Flipside Comedy Show Stand-up every Wednesday at this bastion of old-school Seattle charm. 13 Coins, 125 Boren Ave. N., Seattle See website Wednesday, August 20, 2014, 8pm

Duos Comedy Showcase Unexpected Productions presents comedians two at a time. Unexpected Productions Market Theater, 1428 Post Alley, Seattle $5 Wednesday, August 20, 2014, 8:30pm

Can Can Cabarets Seattle’s center for neo-burlesque presents shows and/or live music nearly every night; see website for full details and ticket prices. Can Can, 94 Pike St. Downstairs from Matts & Chez Chea, Seattle see website Thursday, August 21, 2014