In & Of Itself
Opening May 3. Performance artist Derek DelGaudio (David Blaine is a fan of his) both wrote and stars in this metaphorical labyrinth of a play, directed by the legendary Frank Oz. Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454. geffenplayhouse.com
The City of Conversation
Opening May 17. A timely entry for campaign season, this play follows a well-known liberal who must adapt to her son’s new girlfriend—and newfound conservative worldview. Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, 310.746.4000. thewallis.org
42nd Street
Opening May 31. See this classic musical and long-running hit, set on Broadway at the height of the Great Depression, and hear songs including “We’re in the Money” and “I Only Have Eyes for You.” This iteration is a slightly updated version of the Tony-winning 2001 revival. Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, 323.468.1770. hollywoodpantages.com
Father Comes Home From the Wars (Parts 1, 2 & 3)
Through May 15. This epic tale—receiving its West Coast premiere here—takes place throughout the Civil War and follows a slave who is offered freedom if he joins his master in fighting with the Confederacy. The poignant work by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks won the 2015 Kennedy Center Prize for Drama. Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown, 213.628.2772. centertheatregroup.org
Stage Kiss
Through May 15. MacArthur “genius” Sarah Ruhl wrote this romantic comedy, a raucous play-within-a-play about two co-stars igniting an old flame. Gil Cates Theater, Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood, 310.208.5454. geffenplayhouse.com
Endgame
Through May 22. Often considered Samuel Beckett’s single greatest work, Endgame dives into his absurdist world and finds four characters preparing for oblivion throughout the course of one act. The prolific Alan Mandell both directs and stars in this version of the macabre comedy. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City, 213.628.2772. centertheatregroup.org
Borrowed Rime
Through May 29. L.A.-based magician Helder Guimarães—the youngest-ever World Champion of Card Magic—provides audiences with a memorable night at his immersive new one-man show, held in a top-secret location near Larchmont Village. Director J.J. Abrams and actor Paul Scheer are just two attendees who have left the limited-engagement experience astounded. borrowedtime.la