Summer theater is winding down. Most of the outdoor summer theaters have struck their sets, stored their costumes and tallied their ticket sales.
However, never fear. There's still plenty of theater to be had in August. Whether you want to cry, laugh or experience a thrill, you'll find all of the above at Connecticut's richly talented, and highly recognized regional theaters.
There's a veritable beach party happening at the Norma Terris Theatre in Chester. This is where you can cool off in the comfort of air conditioning, and enjoy "The Bikinis," a brand new musical by Ray Roderick and James Hindman. The past is present once again, with the sound of the 1960s as a few Jersey Girls relive the excitement of being "Under the Boardwalk," or telling the whole world, "It's in His Kiss."
Even with the air conditioning, one can experience that familiar "Heat Wave," and there "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" to keep the girls from "Where the Boys Are." This production, featuring more than 30 hits, has been extended through Sept. 9. Box office: 860-873-8668.
Goodspeed Musicals has not only extended its Norma Terris production, but it has also extended through Sept. 29, the classy and classic "Carousel" at its East Haddam theater, the Goodspeed Opera House. Erin Davie has replaced Teal Wicks as Julie Jordan.
Davie has appeared on Broadway in "A Little Night Music," "Curtains," and "Grey Gardens."
Westport Country Playhouse also wraps up its summer season with the world premiere of a comedy called "Harbor."
Written by Chad Beguelin and directed by the Playhouse's artistic director, Mark Lamos, word is that this comedy will not only have you laughing, but realizing that when it comes to family, the dynamics are ever changing. It plays through Sept. 15. For tickets call: 203-227-4177.
For those who prefer thrills and chills, you'll want to hop on the highway and head to TheatreWorks in Hartford. Here you'll find "Tryst," which is set in Edwardian London. A psychological thriller, this is one play when the handsome con-man meets his Waterloo in the most shocking way. The production plays through Sept. 9. Box office: 860-527-7838.
Joanne Greco Rochman is an active member in The American Theatre Critics Association, and covers art and culture in a blog for CBS National and CBS-CT. She welcomes comments. Contact: jgrochman@gmail.com
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