Steve Feeney

The circumstances have changed since the era portrayed in Lynn Nottage's 'Intimate Apparel.' But the struggles that the characters face remain all too recognizable.

Mad Horse Theatre Company has gained a reputation for producing quirky plays that climb all over any remaining distinction between serious and off-the-wall theatrics. The last play for their 33rd season, therefore, is right in their wheelhouse, to borrow a term from the world of baseball.

It may not be among the most highly regarded of Shakespeare's plays. But 'Richard III' has proved to be a popular one. In recent times, big name actors have sought out the lead role and fans have flocked to see how Al Pacino, Kevin Spacey, Kenneth Branagh and Ian McKellen, for example, have embodied this fascinating, if repulsive, character.

Portland's Greek Festival ended a few weeks ago but the spirit of that ancient culture hangs in the air with the latest production from the Fenix Theatre Company. Sarah Ruhl's gentle makeover of the myth of 'Orpheus and Eurydice' is being presented in and around the small wading pools at Deering Oaks Park.

There are some comedies where a good part of the fun lies in watching the cast having fun. 'The Explorers Club,' the final offering of the season from the Mad Horse Theatre Company, is one of those.

Love makes the world go around, even when it seems to have stopped in its tracks. Such is the message of 'Outside Mullingar,' a romantic comedy that's perfect for the return of the American Irish Repertory Ensemble (AIRE).

Though the sample is still small, Portland's 60 Grit Theatre Company seems to show a preference for tense little plays where highly stressed characters are holed-up in increasingly claustrophobic circumstances.

Year of the Rooster is edgy and entertaining.

It seems, even mobsters don't like to spend all their summer in the city heat. This July, a talented gang of old-school ruffians has taken over the Ogunquit Playhouse.

The Ogunquit Playhouse opens its 85th season on a romantic Greek island.

Strong work at Portland Stage.

John Cariani's play services those seeking a restart.

Director Lindsey Higgins has audio recordings of British and American politicians play before the action begins in the 60 Grit Theatre Company's production of Sarah Kane's 'Blasted.' Their stuffy proclamations set the stage for the 1995 play's exploration of some horrific clashes along the frontlines of the battle between the personal and the impersonal.

You're either on the bus or you're not on the bus, so the old saying goes. Currently, audiences at the Ogunquit Playhouse are willingly climbing onboard for a wild ride.

The Quartet's first Maine concert is one of its last with all of the original members.

Doug Varone and Company impress at Bates Dance Fest with new and classic work.

Stars come out for a spirited take of a classic.

LET IT BE celebrates the Beatles music with glimpses of the era from whence it came.