From award-winning musicals to lyrical dramas, check out the best performances and plays in San Diego this September.
Edited by Madelyn Harris.
An American in Paris
Sept. 5-10. The Tony Award-winning musical about an American solider, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city features unforgettable songs from George and Ira Gershwin. Visit website for complete schedule. $22+. Broadway/San Diego, Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown. broadwaysd.com
Wild Goose Dreams
Sept. 5-Oct. 1. A North Korean defector who has left her family behind and a lonely South Korean feather start an unlikely online romance as they each attempt to allay their fears and alienation in this inventive and darkly humorous piece. Visit website for complete schedule. $35+. Mandell Weiss Forum at the La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Drive, La Jolla. lajollaplayhouse.org
Last of the Red Hot Lovers
Sept. 6-Oct. 1. Middle-aged and overworked Barney Cashman tries to “spice up” his bland life with attempts at seduction in this hilarious and witty Neil Simon play. Various performances. $42+. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach. northcoastrep.org
Roz and Ray
Sept. 7-Oct. 1. Set in San Diego, this time-bending play sheds light on a little-known chapter in medical history during the onset of the AIDS crisis and offers a profound story of love, trust, sacrifice and healing. Various performances. $20+. San Diego Rep, Lyceum Theatre, 79 Horton Plaza, downtown. sdrep.org
Benny & Joon
Sept. 7-Oct. 22. With unforgettable characters and a tuneful score, this world-premiere musical–—based on the beloved offbeat 90s romantic comedy movie–—explores what happens when we step out of our comfort zones and take a leap toward love. View website for shows and prices. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park. theoldglobe.org
Homos, Or Everyone in America
Sept. 14-Oct. 15. As the pendulum of progress continues to swing, a Brooklyn couple attempts to navigate the complexities of contemporary gay life together in this brave, cutting-edge new play that confronts the lingering dangers and interconnected values of our nation. View website for full schedule and prices. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd. #101, University Heights. diversionary.org
Disney’s ‘The Little Mermaid’
Sept. 19-24. In a magical kingdom beneath the sea, the beautiful young mermaid Ariel longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above in this musical performance featuring unforgettable classics such as “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World.” View website for full schedule. Broadway/San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., downtown. broadwaysd.com
The Explorers Club
Through Sept. 24. A hilarious send up of a Victorian men’s club best by women, poisonous snakes, exotic plants, bartending savages and crazed Irishmen. Various performances. $74. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado. lambsplayers.org
The Effect of Gamma Rays on Man-in-the-Moon-Marigolds
Through Sept. 24. Set in the 1960s, this Pulitzer Prize-winning lyrical drama tells the story of a wounded family unraveling at the age of innocence and one child’s search for hope and resilience. Various performances. $41. Cygnet Theatre in Old Town, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town. cygnettheatre.com
