Enemy of the People, Red Tape Theatre at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, through May 30. Traditionalists may grumble, but Robert L. Oakes’ Americanized modernization of Henrik Ibsen’s classic drama gives it an extra close-to-home impact. James Palmer’s clever staging also shakes up the audience’s complacency of their civic duties. SCM
The Lieutenant of Inishmore, Northlight Theatre, through June 7. For those who like their Irish dramas with plenty of bodily fluids and black comedy, Lieutenant is a can’t-miss endeavor. A killer ensemble that includes Matt DeCaro, John Judd and Jamie Abelson, makes this a can’t-miss for everybody else as well. CS
Pumpgirl, A Red Orchid Theatre, through May 24. Move over, Conor McPherson! Abby Spallen’s grimly humorous picture of life on the borderlands of Northern Ireland proves that a depressed economy makes for a depressed population anywhere in the world. MSB
Red Noses, Strawdog Theatre, through May 23. Who knew the Black Death was funny? Last chance to see this engaging extravaganza about a Medieval clown troupe; a comedy that will make you laugh and maybe think about joy, faith, politics, life and death. JA
—By Abarbanel, Barnidge,
Morgan and Sullivan