Rick Stone The Blues Man, Black Ensemble Theater, extended through Sept. 6. This North side company’s latest musical revue/history lesson recounts the tale of how two lifelong friends from the projects founded a theater company very like the one we’re in. MSB
Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story, American Blues Theater at Stage 773, through Sept. 15. The Pro room on Belmont Avenue is smaller than what usually houses this rock-and-roll biodrama, but the intimacy generated thereby ramps up the excitement even more. MSB
The African Company Presents Richard III, Oak Park Festival Theatre. Based on the true story of an African-American theater company in 1826, playwright Carlyle Brown’s drama is timely, thrilling, tragic and joyful. It is also reason for hope: When art goes up against bigotry and violence, art ultimately wins. CES
—By Sullivan and Barnidge