In a world of endless streaming, there’s still nothing quite like the thrill of live theater, and Northern Virginia boasts a thriving performing arts scene. So beat the heat, put down your phone and watch these talented casts and crews do what they do best on stages close to home. Here are a handful of summer productions worth seeing.
Signature Theater: Pippin and What Became of Us
Pippin, the restless heir of King Charlemagne, dreams of greatness, dives into war, passion and even murder only to be disillusioned at every turn. The Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Wicked) musical runs through July 26 at Signature Theatre in Shirlington, as does the D.C.-area premiere of What Became of Us, a tale of two siblings, one born in this country and one abroad, striving for connection over the course of a lifetime. Ticket prices vary by date and time. Check the website for details and other special add-ons, including dance classes, backstage tours and discussion nights. 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington (Shirlington)
1st Stage: Indecent
Now extended through June 28, Indecent sold out opening weekend. The play by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright and D.C. native Paula Vogel focuses on true events surrounding the controversial 1923 Broadway debut of Sholem Asch’s God of Vengeance, which some saw as an act of traitorous libel. Indecent follows the lives of artists who risked their careers and lives to perform it. Tickets range from $15-$55, with discounts for students, educators and members of the military. Check back in August for details about 1st Stage’s Logan Festival of Solo Performance. 1524 Spring Hill Road, Tysons
Edge of the Universe Theater: Orton’s Loot
Described as “Monty Python meets Oscar Wilde,” this play, onstage at Gunston Theatre Two through June 28, follows two young men who rob a bank and, desperate to conceal the loot, stash it in a coffin. First staged in 1965, it’s a dark farce that satirizes British social conventions and examines authority, religion and morality through physical comedy. Tickets are $25. 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington
The Alden: 1776
As the nation celebrates its 250th birthday, McLean Community Players presents the Tony Award-winning musical portrayal of the historic figures behind the revolution, including the founding fathers’ debates, personal rivalries and compromises. Celebrate America’s story July 17, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25; $20 for seniors; $18 for MCC district residents. 1234 Ingleside Ave., McLean
Encore Stage & Studio: The Addams Family
They’re creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky, and we love them for it. See what makes the Addams family so endearing in this hometown production performed by kids, for kids, running July 7-26 at the Thomas Jefferson Community Theatre. Tickets are $22 for adults; $18 for children, students and members of the military. A group rate of $16 per ticket is available for parties of 10 or more. See website for matinee and evening performance times. 125 S. Old Glebe Road, Arlington
Vienna Youth Players: Guys and Dolls
This high-energy musical set in 1950s New York follows a cast of gamblers and missionaries and their big bets on love and luck, featuring a cast and crew of performers ages 10 to 18 from the Vienna Youth Players. The production is packed with humor and classic Broadway tunes including “Luck Be a Lady” and “Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat.” Catch one of six performances slated for July 18 to 26 at the Vienna Community Center Auditorium. Tickets are $18. 120 Cherry St. SE, Vienna
Wolf Trap: Children’s Theatre in the Woods
Every summer, Wolf Trap presents eight weeks of family performances featuring music, dance and theater. This year kicks off with YouTube sensation Jules! Later in the summer, see Grammy winners Flor Bromley and Joanie Leeds, Omnium Circus and Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus!, a musical is based on the popular children’s book series by Mo Willems. Performances take place Wednesday through Sunday mornings at 10:30 a.m., through Aug. 16. Admission is $12. Children under 2 are free. Save another $2 per ticket when you buy three or more shows. Before or after the show, enjoy a picnic, earn a Junior Ranger badge or play in the meadow with free games, toys and kid-friendly activities. 1551 Trap Road, Vienna
The Little Theater of Alexandria: Catch Me if You Can
Set in the 1960s, this captivating musical (you may have seen the movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio) begins with the capture of legendary con artist Frank Abagnale Jr., by FBI Agent Carl Hanratty, after years of pursuit. Abagnale feels the audience deserves to hear his version of the truth and narrates his life as a hip, dance-heavy variety television show. The play runs July 18 through Aug. 8. Tickets are $36. Or, purchase a 7-show package for $190 or a 6-show package for $168. 600 Wolfe St., Alexandria
