July was a bit of a whirlwind, so the respite that August offers is much appreciated. That said, the plays and musicals that are opening in Dallas and Fort Worth this month are a strong bunch, from old classics to newer award-winners. Take a gander at this list and find your next cultural cool-down.
The Glass Menagerie, July 30-August 23
Theatre Three
This "dream play" by Tennessee Williams is kicking off Theatre Three's 54th season, and the cast itself is kind of dreamy too. Allison Pistorius, Connie Coit, Blake Blair and Sterling Gafford have each turned in at least one remarkable performance in the last year, so to gather them all together in this play that's all about strong emotions is sure to be stunning.
The Color Purple, July 31-August 23
Jubilee Theatre
Opening weekend was sold out, so if you want to see this powerful musical you'd better move fast. Another version with Jennifer Hudson is heading to Broadway soon, so it's extra nice that we only have to go to Fort Worth to see the musical adaptation of Alice Walker's seminal novel.
Mr. Burns, a post-electric play, August 6-September 13
Stage West
This new-ish dark comedy combines two things everyone seems to love: a post-apocalyptic setting and The Simpsons. It's also a clever look at oral storytelling, and how history has a way of changing throughout the years, as groups attempt to retell the "Cape Feare" episode at different points in time.
God of Carnage, August 13-23
Our Productions Theatre Co.
The tiny and new theater company Our Productions put on a spectacular regional premiere of the musical Ordinary Days in April, but it really debuted last September with Yasmina's Reza's black comedy of (non) manners, God of Carnage. The troupe is remounting the production at Addison Theatre Centre, with two new actors stepping into the roles of cell phone-addicted Alan (Bob Reed) and the socially conscious Veronica (Christine Phelan). They join Stephanie Riggs as Alan's money-obsessed wife Annette, and Brad Baker as Veronica's wholesaler husband, Michael.
A School Bus Named Desire, August 14-22
Fun House Theatre and Film
Jeff Swearingen was originally playing Alan in God of Carnage, but his schedule demanded he be on-hand to direct his newest original work, A School Bus Named Desire. If you didn't get your Tennessee Williams fix with The Glass Menagerie, try this pint-size Southern drama on for size, as kindergartners (actors age 8-11) embody Stanley, Blanche and STELLLLLLLLA!
Hedwig and the Angry Inch, August 28-September 13
Uptown Players
Get your platforms and glitter eyeshadow ready, because the disgruntled East German glam rocker Hedwig is coming to the Kalita. Under the direction of Jeremy Dumont, Kyle Igneczi and Grace Neeley Ipaye will tackle the cult musical, which is currently playing on Broadway.
The cast of Mr. Burns: a post-electric play at Stage West.
