From musical comedy to heartfelt dramas and backstage antics, August offers theatergoers throughout the Ann Arbor area a diverse lineup of live performances. Whether you’re looking for anything from an intimate professional production to a laugh-out-loud musical, there’s plenty to enjoy before the fall season begins.
“Emma’s Wedding(s),” through Aug. 30
Purple Rose Theatre. 137 Park St., Chelsea. 734-433-7673.
Emma is preparing to walk down the aisle for the fourth time—and she’s convinced this marriage will finally last. Before saying “I do” again, she reunites her closest friends to revisit the weddings that have marked her life over the decades. Written by Michigan playwright Carey Crim, this heartfelt comedy celebrates enduring friendships, second chances and the unexpected twists that shape our lives, all with Purple Rose Theatre’s signature blend of humor and heart.
“Athena,” through Aug. 9
Theatre NOVA. 410 W. Huron St., Ann Arbor. 734-635-8450.
Gracie Gardner’s acclaimed play follows two fiercely competitive teenage fencers training for the Junior Olympics. As Mary Wallace and Athena push one another toward excellence, friendship and rivalry become increasingly difficult to separate. Described as “a deadly serious comedy,” the production explores ambition, identity and the emotional cost of always striving to win.
“Lady Windermere’s Fan,” Aug. 6–9
Loonlight Theatre. Dixboro Village Green, 5221 Church Rd., Ann Arbor.
Loonlight Theatre presents an outdoor, garden-party production of Oscar Wilde’s sparkling 1892 comedy Lady Windermere’s Fan against the backdrop of the historic Dixboro Schoolhouse. Directed by Darla Hand, the witty comedy of manners follows Lady Windermere as rumors, misunderstandings, and hidden motives threaten to upend London’s high society. Performances begin at 7 p.m. Thursday, 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $15 and available online or at the gate, subject to availability.
“Gutenberg! The Musical!,” Aug. 7–22
The Penny Seats. Cahoots Event Center, 206 E. Huron St., Ann Arbor.
What happens when two enthusiastic writers attempt to pitch the greatest musical ever written—to anyone willing to listen? This fast-paced musical comedy follows the duo as they perform every role in their wildly over-the-top production about Johannes Gutenberg, complete with homemade costumes, boundless optimism and theatrical chaos. Filled with clever satire and infectious energy, Gutenberg! The Musical! has become a cult favorite among musical theater fans.
“Southern Rapture,” Aug. 13–22
PTD Productions at Riverside Arts Center. 76 N. Huron St., Ypsilanti. 734-483-7345.
Based on a true story, Eric Coble’s comedy offers an affectionate look behind the curtain of community theater. A struggling Southern theater company races to mount an ambitious production while juggling impossible deadlines, oversized egos and one unexpected complication after another. Filled with backstage mishaps and heartfelt moments, Southern Rapture is both a love letter to live theater and a celebration of the people determined to keep it alive.
Hear.Say Brewing + Theater, August events
2350 W. Liberty St., Ann Arbor.
Hear.Say Brewing + Theater continues its popular lineup of improv, comedy and audience-driven performances throughout August. Regular favorites include Friday Night Improv with Eleven Non-Blondes and Saturday Night Improv: Double Header, along with rotating specialty shows featuring local performers. The intimate west-side venue also hosts workshops, improv jams, and special events for audiences and aspiring improvisers alike. Check the theater’s website for the complete August schedule and additional performances.
Donna Marie Iadipaolo is a writer, journalist, and State of Michigan certified teacher, since 1990. She has written for national publications like The Village Voice, Ear Magazine of New Music, Insurance & Technology, and TheStreet.
She is now writing locally for many publications, including Current Magazine, Ann Arbor Family, and the Ann Arbor Independent. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where she graduated with an honors bachelor’s degree and three teacher certificate majors: mathematics, social sciences, English. She also earned three graduate degrees in Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Education Specialist Degree.
