Summer Arts Guide 2019

Through June 30

The central character in this biting comedy is a cynic who thinks insincerity is a sin—but the joke’s on him when he falls for an ingenue who’s more than his match. Matt Minnicino’s interpretation distills Moliere’s best-known farce into quippy rhyming couplets, with a new take on the absurdity of modern airs. Presented by WSC Avant Bard. $10-$40. Gunston Theatre Two, 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington, wscavantbard.org

Through July 14

Set sail with the most infamous pirate of all time in a rowdy, high-seas adventure in this world premiere commissioned by Signature Theatre. The show is from the creators of The Witches of Eastwick. After learning he’s a wanted man by the British army, Blackbeard and his merry crew of maritime marauders embark on a fantastical journey across the globe to raise an undead pirate army from the depths of the sea. Staged entirely on a pirate ship, Blackbeard is a musical salute to the Seven Seas. See website for ticket prices and times. Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington, sigtheatre.org

July 17-Aug. 18

Synetic Theater’s take on this timeless tale of buccaneers in search of buried gold is part of its New Voice Series, which gives area theater professionals the opportunity to create and direct an original adaptation. Recommended for ages 13+. See website for ticket prices and times. Synetic Theater, 1800 S. Bell St., Arlington, synetictheater.org

July 19-28

Set in turn-of-the-20th-century New York City, this musical is the rousing tale of a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenage “newsies.” When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right. Recommended for ages 6 and up. $12-$15. Encore Stage & Studio, Kenmore Middle School, 200 S. Carlin Springs Road, Arlington, encorestageva.org