The Caretaker, Writers’ Theatre, through March 25. You simply won’t find a better staging of Harold Pinter’s quintessential 1960 Comedy of Menace, set in a tough London hood where an old bum nearly comes between two vastly dissimilar brothers. It features beautiful acting and direction. JA
The Jackie Wilson Story, Black Ensemble Theater, extended through Feb. 19. The best post-holiday gift that Chicago playgoers could ask for is this revival of Black Ensemble’s biggest hit musical in a shiny-bright new theater. “Higher and Higher,” brothers and sisters! MSB
Late Nite Catechism, Royal George Theatre, open run. Amid all of the controversy over Cardinal Francis George’s analogy of Chicago’s Pride Parade organizers to the KKK, why not see this long-running show that has been frequently featured on a float in numerous Pride Parades? After all, with Sister’s involvement in the parade, what could George possibly object to? SCM
Pump Boys and Dinettes, Theo Ubique at the No Exit Café, through Jan. 15. You’re right there in the room celebrating with the humble Americans who wear their names embroidered above their hearts in this intimate musical revue. MSB
—By Abarbanel, Barnidge
and Morgan