How’s tricks? Big, bold and hip, at least that’s how “The Illusionists” — seven men in all — are branding themselves as they tour the country following its hit Broadway run last year. (Andrew Basso holds his breath for more than four minutes while attempting to escape from his underwater cell — and looking good at the same time.) The two-hour show of magic, show biz and cool plays eight shows at Hartford’s Bushnell theater Sept. 22 through 27. Tickets start at $27.50. Information: bushnell.org.
Home Is Where The Art Is
The sense of place bears special meaning in Christopher Shinn’s latest play set in the town of Wethersfield where the playwright grew up. “An Opening in Time” receives its world premiere at Hartford Stage, with previews starting Thursday, Sept. 17 and running through Oct. 11. The play is described this way: “Anne, a retired schoolteacher, moves back to the suburban town in central Connecticut, which she left years before. She finds a number of things have changed.” Tickets $25 to $85. Information: hartfordstage.org.
Touched By An Angel
Feeling your existence is worthless? Just remember George Bailey and his spiritual guide Clarence — and perhaps check out the musical “A Wonderful Life” at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam. It’s based on Frank Capra’s “It’s a Wonderful Life,” the perennial holiday film. This stage version has music by Joe Raposo (“Sesame Street”) and lyrics and book by Sheldon Harnick (“Fiddler on the Roof”). Performances start Friday, Sept. 18, and the show opens Oct. 14 and runs through Nov. 29.goodspeed.org.
Better Watch The Miracle Grow
The comedy and horror rock musical “Little Shop of Horrors” plays Ivoryton Playhouse beginning Wednesday, Sept. 23, and continuing through Oct. 11. Laura Woyasz (Broadway’s “Wicked”) plays the innocent Audrey and Nicholas Park plays the green-thumbed Seymour. Adult tickets start at $42. Information: ivorytonplayhouse.org.
