“Bat Boy: The Musical” the horror rock musical cult favorite based on a June 23, 1992, Weekly World News story about a half-boy, half-bat who grew up living in a cave. Written by Keythe Farley and Brian Flemming, with music by Laurence O'Keefe, and directed by Pat Towne, it runs March 1 through April 6 at the Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 323-882-6912 or visit www.openfist.org.

Photo by Brian Hashimoto

“Frou-Frou: A Menagerie of Sorts” By turns raucous, poetic, touching, and dangerous, Frou-Frou: A Menagerie of Sorts riffs on Tennessee Williams’s The Glass Menagerie in this story of two queer siblings yearning to be understood. Written by John Anthony Loffredo, and directed by Zi Alikhan, it runs March 1 through March 30 at the Boston Court Pasadena in Pasadena. For tickets visit www.bostoncourtpasadena.org.

“You Cannot Know the Hour” Mr. Brown is a grumpy, peevish, ailing, aging man. A widower, he has a housekeeper to keep his home running smoothly. One day, Brown finds that a nurse has been engaged to look after him on a full-time basis. Brown frequently sees and speaks with the ghost of his dead wife, Helen. She rebukes him for terrible crimes in his past. He responds by protesting his innocence of any wrongdoing. Meanwhile, he finds himself at odds with his nurse. She frequently contradicts his instructions, almost gleefully. Could she possibly be pursuing a sinister, hidden agenda? If so, what is her objective? Is Brown irredeemably evil, or is he an innocent? Written by Katrina Wood, and directed by Trace Oakley, it runs March 1 through March 16 at the Sherry Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets visit www.cannot-know-hour.brownpapertickets.com.

“Feast” is a vivid reimagining of the epic poem Beowulf, as a cautionary tale. True to the ancient myth, Grendel, a monstrous creature described as ‘mankind’s enemy’ is killed by Beowulf, but it is here that FEAST. diverges. In this immersive and visceral theatre experience, Grendel’s mother throws a dinner party to seek justice for her son’s murder, only to confront her own guilt and rage. Oscillating between witty banter and pointed exploration, this heightened high fantasy crashes into the contemporary political landscape, asking the audience to collectively contemplate climate change, income inequality, and the rising forces of authoritarianism. Experience this humorous, thought-provoking one-woman live theatrical event uniquely curated with an actual ‘feast,’ of charcuterie/small bites and themed drinks. Written by Megan Gogerty, and directed by Laura Covelli, it runs March 8 through April 6 at the Count’s Den in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.leonixtheatre.org.

“The Remarkable Mister Holmes” Sherlock Holmes is back with an all-new madcap mystery to solve...and a new sidekick! In this fast-paced, wildly comedic musical. Holmes must solve a series of baffling crimes without the help of his trusted partner. Packed with wild wordplay, red herrings, and zany surprises, this over-the-top rollercoaster of musical mayhem is perfect for fans of Arthur Conan Doyle, Mel Brooks, musical theater, or anyone who loves a fun night out. Written by Omri Schein and David Ellenstein, with music by Daniel Lincoln, lyrics by Omri Schein, and directed by David Ellenstein, it runs March 9 through March 30 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

Photo by Joan Marcus

“Ain't Too Proud - The Life and Times of the Temptations” Featuring the Grammy® winning songs and Tony® winning moves, AIN’T TOO PROUD is the electrifying musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. With their signature dance moves and unmistakable harmonies, they rose to the top of the charts creating an amazing 42 Top Ten Hits with 14 reaching number one and being voted the greatest R&B group of all time by Billboard Magazine in 2017. The rest is history — how they met, the groundbreaking heights they hit, and how personal and political conflicts threatened to tear the group apart as the United States fell into civil unrest. This thrilling story of brotherhood, family, loyalty, and betrayal is set to the beat of the group’s treasured hits, including “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Get Ready,” “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” and so many more. Written by Dominique Morisseau, with music by The Temptations, and directed by Des McAnuff, it runs March 14 through March 16 at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. For tickets visit www.BroadwayInThousandOaks.com.

“Cabaret” A thrilling and up-to-date production of a classic show that is now more relevant than ever. Sexy, melodic and unforgettable. The seedy glamour of the Kit Kat Club with its bawdy Emcee provide an unsettling but fitting backdrop to the story of the hard-living entertainer Sally Bowles in the decadent nightlife of Germany in the early ’30s. Come hear some of the most memorable songs in theatre history, including “Cabaret,” “Willkommen,” and “Maybe This Time.” Written by Joe Masteroff, with music by John Kander, lyrics by Fred Ebb, it runs March 14 through March 30 at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center - Scherr Forum Theatre in Thousand Oaks. For tickets call 805-449-2787 or visit www.5startheatricals.com.

“Love! Valour! Compassion!” explores friendship, love, betrayal, and the struggles of gay men navigating life and relationships. Set over three summer weekends at a lakeside home, the play captures the humor, heartbreak, and humanity of a group of eight friends as they confront their fears, desires, and mortality. Written by Terrence McNally, and directed by Aric Martin, it runs March 14 through April 5 at the Westchester Playhouse in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-645-5156 or visit www.kentwoodplayers.org.

“One for My Baby” is a song and dance extravaganza featuring the brilliant music of Harold Arlen – the favorite composer of Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand. One song hit after another including “Get Happy” “Blues in the Night” “That Old Black Magic” “Stormy Weather” “The Man that Got Away” and many more! Written by Scott Thompson and Fred Barton, with music by Harold Arlen, lyrics by Ted Koehler, Johnny Mercer, E.Y. Harburg, and Ira Gershwin, it runs March 14 through March 23 at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-508-4200 or visit www.elportaltheatre.com.

“Two Small Bodies” Two children have disappeared. The mother is a voluptuous, sexy hostess at a strip joint, and the tough-talking detective investigating the possible kidnap or murder case plays a cat-and-mouse game with her. He is relentless and their relationship becomes an unusual and intimate dance. He pushes her and pushes her to confess that she murdered her children, but he gets more than he bargained for. It is seductive. It is provocative. Twists and turns and surprises. Sometimes sexually explicit. Takes place around 1972. Written by Neal Bell, and directed by Gloria Gifford, it runs March 15 through April 26 at the GGC Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 310-366-5505 or visit www.onstage411.com/newsite/show/play_info.asp?show_id=7351.

“Beatnik Girl” tells the story of a young woman of vision and principle, Edi Gordon, as she struggles with misogyny, antisemitism, and an unwanted pregnancy while trying to be a Beat poet. Set in New York’s lower east side in 1957, this sweet and touching new play is filled with lyrical original poetry, poignant humor and insight into the human condition that will stir the heart and take you back to the time of the Beat Generation – Kerouac, Ginsberg, Miles … and women too! Get in the groove! Written by Leda Siskind, and directed by Ann Hearn Tobolowsky, it runs March 20 through April 20 at the Theatre Forty in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-364-0535 or visit www.theatre40.org.

“Unreconciled” is the true story of an adolescent actor cast as Jesus in a school play directed by a parish priest. The story chronicles a survivor’s journey as he confronts his past, navigates a victims’ reparations program set up by the Catholic Church, and discovers the courage to use his voice. This 80-minute piece is a poignant and at times humorous exploration of family, place, and the meaning of reconciliation. Written by Jay Sefton, and directed by Geraldine Hughes, it runs March 21 through March 31 at the Moving Arts in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.movingarts.ludus.com/index.php?show_id=200471467.

“One Jewish Boy” a funny, biting, bittersweet story about two young people in love who are faced with the world's unpredictable cruelty. Jesse, a nice Jewish boy from North London, falls hopelessly for Alex, a young woman of mixed race. Navigating any relationship is difficult enough. What happens when you factor in politics and rising prejudices? Written by Stephen Laughton, and directed by Chris Fields, it runs March 22 through April 28 at the Echo Theater Company in Atwater Village. For tickets call 747-350-8066 or visit www.EchoTheaterCompany.com.

“Rhinestone Cowboys” Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles (GMCLA) presents a bedazzled country music celebration covering the gamut of country from Dolly Parton, Shania Twain, and Chris Satapleton to Lil NasX, Brandi Carlile, Chappell Roan and Beyonce! Directed by Ernest H. Harrison, it runs March 22 through March 23 at the Saban Theatre in Beverly Hills. For tickets visit www.GMCLA.org.

“Into the Woods” is a mesmerizing musical that intertwines the adventures of iconic fairy tale characters on a journey of dreams, adventure, and consequence. As Cinderella flees the ball, Jack climbs to new heights, and Little Red embarks on a daring path, they cross paths with the Baker and his Wife, who are desperate to lift a curse. With Stephen Sondheim’s iconic score and a story filled with heart, humor, and surprises, this production is a must-see for audiences of all ages. Written by James Lapine, with music by Stephen Sondheim, and directed by Kari Hayter, it runs March 28 through April 13 at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-856-1999 or visit www.musical.org.

“Jane Eyre” Orphaned as a child, the strong-willed Jane takes a position at Thornfield Hall working as a governess for the brooding Edward Rochester. There, she falls in love with her mysterious employer… until the discovery of a dark secret leads to a devastating aftermath. Written by adapted by Elizabeth Williamson from the novel by Charlotte Brontë, and directed by Geoff Elliott, it runs March 29 through April 20 at the A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-3100 or visit www.anoisewithin.org.

“Avenue Q” is about real life. It's about finding a job, losing a job, learning about racism, getting an apartment, getting kicked out of your apartment, being different, falling in love, promiscuity, avoiding commitment, hangovers, Internet porn and discovering the world. Written by Jeff Whitty, with music by Robert Lopez and Jeff Marx, it runs through March 2 at the Wisteria Theater in North Hollywood. For tickets visit www.wisteriatheater.com.

“The Brothers Abelson Since 1946” Twenty-six-year-old cartoonist Benny Abelson faces a life-changing decision when he visits his family in Texas for Thanksgiving, 1977. At first his dad’s nervous breakdown and his mom’s decision to walk out on her husband of 35 years elicit Benny’s wit and our laughter. Benny prepares to hightail it back to NYC, but as family secrets erupt, the Abelsons open a window for all of us onto the staggering heartbreak of keeping secrets. Written by Dennis Danziger, and directed by Matthew Leavitt, it runs through March 2 at the Electric Lodge in Venice. For tickets visit www.abelsonplay.com.

“Jersey Boys” experience the meteoric rise of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons- a journey through fame, fortune, and the timeless music that defined a generation. With hits like ‘Sherry,’ ‘Walk Like a Man,’ and so many more, this show is a perfect blend of nostalgia, heart, and sheer entertainment! Written by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, with music by Frankie Valli and Bob Gaudio, and directed by TJ Dawson, it runs through March 2 at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-856-1999 or visit www.musical.org.

“Noises Off” Doors slam, sardines fly, and trousers drop in Michael Frayn’s side-splitting British farce about a theater company desperately trying to get their act together. Both onstage and backstage, chaos reigns for a troupe of floundering actors whose forgotten lines, misplaced props, and steamy romantic entanglements make it nearly impossible for the show to go on. An uproarious love letter to the theater, Noises Off is a peek behind the curtain—where everything that can go wrong, does! Written by Michael Frayn, and directed by Anna D. Shapiro, it runs through March 2 at the Geffen Playhouse Gil Cates Theater in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-208-2028 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.

“Constellations” a theoretical physicist named Marianne and a beekeeper named Roland cross paths at a party, sparking a relationship that unfolds across a series of alternate realities. With each choice and action leading to multiple divergent outcomes, Payne’s profound and poetic script challenges audiences to consider the power of free will, the fragility of human connection, and the vastness of possibility. Written by Nick Payne, and directed by Jonathan Fox, it runs through March 9 at the Rubicon Theatre in Ventura. For tickets call 805-667-2900 or visit www.rubicontheatre.org.

“Desperate Measures” When the dangerously handsome Johnny Blood’s life is on the line, he must put his fate into the hands of a colorful cast of characters. Laws are broken and hearts are won as they try to find justice in a world that often doesn’t seem just. Written by Peter Kellogg, with music by David Friedman, lyrics by Peter Kellogg, and directed by Todd Nielsen, it runs through March 9 at the International City Theatre in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-436-4610 or visit www.InternationalCityTheatre.org.

“Macbeth” Set for this production against the haunting backdrop of New Orleans from the late 19th century through the 1920s, Macbeth may be the Bard's most disturbing play: a macabre tale of witches, hallucinations, ambition, power and Shakespeare’s bloodiest couple. Macbeth and his wife thrash against the rise of their own consciences in a gripping psychological and political thriller that follows Macbeth’s transformation from a celebrated battlefield hero to a bloody tyrant, unveiling the profound darkness that resides within the human soul. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by Andi Chapman, it runs through March 9 at the A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-3100 or visit www.anoisewithin.org.

“Master Class” Callas, in the play, commands the stage in a Juilliard masterclass where she offers cutting, humorous, and deeply insightful critiques to her eager-to-please students. While guiding her pupils – each with their own hopes and flaws – Callas reflects on her triumphs and tragedies, from her metamorphosis as a star to her volatile relationship with Aristotle Onassis. Through sharp wit and raw vulnerability, Callas reveals the personal and professional sacrifices required to pursue greatness. Her impassioned teachings and poignant reflections remind us of the profound impact that art can have on individuals and society. Written by Terrence McNally, and directed by Tim Dang, it runs through March 9 at the Sierra Madre Playhouse in Sierra Madre. For tickets call 626-355-4318 or visit www.theatrewest.org/tickets.

“Oklahoma!” Experience the passion, the rivalry, and the hope that unfolds against the sweeping backdrop of Oklahoma Territory. In the bustling frontier town of Claremore, Oklahoma, a lively group of characters chase their dreams and grapple with the challenges of love and loss. Ado Annie, a captivating young woman, finds herself torn between the affections of Will Parker, a charming cowboy, and Alfred Dreyfus, a hardworking farmhand. Meanwhile, Curly, a handsome ranch hand, falls for Laurey Williams, a spirited farm girl who yearns for a life beyond the farm. As tensions rise between farmers and ranchers over dwindling resources, a rivalry erupts between Curly and Jud Fry, a brooding farmhand who harbors a dark secret. A community auction provides a platform for both love and conflict to unfold, with Laurey offering a picnic basket as a prize to the winner of a competitive barn dance. Through a series of misunderstandings, jealousy, and a dramatic storm, the true depths of love and friendship are revealed. Ultimately, hearts mend, sacrifices are made, and hope prevails in this timeless story of love conquering all. Written by Rodgers & Hammerstein, with music by Rodgers & Hammerstein, and directed by Tim Nelson, it runs through March 9 at the Rose Center Theater in Westminster. For tickets call 714-793-1150 Ext. 1 or visit www.rosecentertheater.com/oklahoma.

“UNCONDITIONAL, A Musical Memoir” In the wake of one of life’s most profound challenges, Margot Rose’s Unconditional, A Musical Memoir forges a path to resilience with a commitment to go on in a world of unpredictability. This is a true story of dedication and loss; community and love, in which two women, already in their mid-forties, went to extraordinary lengths to have kids. After a tragic loss, the family would be thrown into a spiral that, once again, forced them to grapple with the question – how do we become (and stay) a family? How are we able to go on? Written by Margot Rose, and directed by Anne Kenny, it runs through March 9 at the Skylight Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-761-7061 or visit www.skylighttheatre.org.

Photo by Paul M. Rubenstein

“Bounds” Five women are stranded on a beach in an unknown country. They might be displaced persons, refugees, unhoused, undocumented immigrants. What we do know is that they are unwanted. They pass the time by playing games and singing songs, they fantasize about belonging, and they compete. One of them, they know, will be selected. But who will that be? While they wait, bonds are created, ties of affection. “Bounds” is a story about us, about the truths we take for granted, and about a society unable to exist without bonds. It is also about “the others,” about those to whom we open our doors—or refuse. It is a story about cages, violence, dreams, a story that reflects our time, a time when we struggle with the rules, obligations, and prejudices that keep us from looking in the eyes of our neighbors. Written by Tino Caspanello, translated by Haun Saussy, and directed by Frédérique Michel, it runs through March 14 at the City Garage in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-453-9939 or visit www.ticketleap.events/tickets/city-garage/bounds.

“I Love You Because” Set in New York City, it centers around a young, uptight greeting card writer whose life is changed when he meets a flighty photographer. Along with their eccentric friends and siblings, they learn to love each other not in spite of their faults, but because of them. Written by Ryan Cunningham, with music by Joshua Salzman, lyrics by Ryan Cunningham, and directed by Megan Ripchik, it runs through March 16 at the Zephyr Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.chrtheatre.com.

Photo by Paul M. Rubenstein

“I Want a Country” A group of people huddle in the darkness, clutching suitcases and umbrellas. They have lost their country. Where did it go? They wander in search of a new one. They complain, argue, debate, talk about what makes a place feel like home. Together, they imagine what the country of their dreams would be like: a place where they could find peace, justice, and kindness at last. Though written by Flourakis about the Greek financial crisis of the early 2010s, this haunting and poetic text speaks just as powerfully to our own political moment here in the United States where so many long to replace division and enmity with connection and understanding. Written by Andreas Flourakis, translated by Eleni Drivas, and directed by Frédérique Michel, it runs through March 16 at the City Garage in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-453-9939 or visit www.ticketleap.events/tickets/city-garage/i-want-a-country.

Photo by Bella Marie Adams

“44 The Obama Musical” is a satirical look at the rise and presidency of Barack Obama, as well as the eccentric political characters he met along the way. Obama’s election changed history. And as we clearly see also ended racism forever! But 44 is the story of the Obama you won’t read in history books…. because history books are now banned in most states. But also, because 44 is the story of Obama as Joe Biden kinda sorta remembers it…as a Musical! Written and directed by Eli Bauman, with music by Eli Bauman, it runs through March 23 at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City. For tickets visit www.centertheatregroup.com.

“Alabaster” a darkly comic southern drama by Audrey Cefaly about love, art and the power of women. The journey of a noted photographer lands her in the mysterious realm of an undiscovered folk artist hiding away in North Alabama in this funny and poignant new play. Written by Audrey Cefaly, and directed by Casey Stangl, it runs through March 30 at the Fountain Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-663-1525 or visit www.FountainTheatre.com.

“West Side Story” Inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, this timeless tale is set in the 1950s streets of New York City, where two young lovers are caught between rival gangs—the Jets and the Sharks. Written by Arthur Laurents, with music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and directed by Justin Meyer, it runs through March 30 at the Nocturne Theatre in Glendale. For tickets visit www.thenocturnetheatre.com.