Summer sizzlers on stage

1. “KING LEAR”This is the one to see - if you can get in. Shakespeare’s electrifying tragedy of a king who finds out only too clearly what happens when you divide the kingdom has been packing full houses. Stacy Keach stars and Robert Falls directs this production that set Chicago audiences on their ears. To be reviewed.
Shakespeare Theatre Company
Harmon Hall, Washington, D.C.
Call (202) 547-1122
Extended through July 26

2. “THE GIN GAME”Some might remember this two-person Tony winner from the ‘70s when it starred the immortal Jessica Tandy and Hume Gronyn. Two elderly inhabitants of a nursing home start some friendly games of gin rummy that eventually become sharper, meaner, and more competitive - in other words, more like life. Mature language, recommended for ages 15 and up. To be reviewed.
Wayside Theatre
Middletown, Va.
Call (540) 869-1776
Playing July 18 - Aug. 15

3. “EVITA”Remember when Madonna silenced the nay-sayers and blew away Argentines with her portrayal of Eva Peron in the film version of “Evita”? Riverside tackles this most renowned of the Webber/Rice collaboratives, a dramatic portrayal of the controversial second wife of Argentina’s dictator. Winner of 11 Tonys. To be reviewed.
Riverside Dinner Theatre
Fredericksburg, Va.
Call (540) 370-4300
Playing through Sept. 13

4. “FOOTLOOSE: The Musical”Generally speaking, successful stage plays graduate to the movies - with variable results. In the case of “Footloose,” the 1984 movie starring Kevin Bacon found a new life as a stage musical. Improbable but kind of sweet - a big city boy comes to the small town of Bomont only to find a town ordinance against dancing. Naturally, he and the rebellious daughter of the mayor have to do something about it.
Live Arts
Charlottesville, Va.
Call (434) 977-4177
Playing July 10 to August 2
(Every Wednesday is “pay what you can” night)

5. DISNEY’S “HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL” Only in the Disney factory could it be imagined that two kids trying out for a high school musical could “turn the school upside down.” Nevertheless, the right combination of talent, songs, and dancing did indeed create a sensation. You’ll find it on stage regionally, but it ends soon.
Lazy Susan Dinner Theatre
Woodbridge, Va.
Call (703) 494-6311
Ends July 12

6. “DRIVING MISS DAISY”Okay, it’s a bit of a drive to get there, but fans of this love-story-that-isn’t shouldn’t mind. After one crashed car too many, Daisy Werthan’s son hires Hoke to drive her around. They live in Georgia, pre-Civil Rights, she’s a Jewish widow, and he’s a middle aged black man. Twenty five years changes everything - including their relationship.
Barksdale Theatre
Willow Lawn, Richmond, Va.
Call (804) 282-2620
Playing through Aug. 2

Margaret Lawrence is a member of the American Theatre Critics Association. She teaches drama at CCHS.