Here on the drama desk we're referring to this weekend as "Stagezilla!"
Are theater companies hoping to cash in on Valentine's date nights? Is it the phase of the moon (waxing crescent), or just a wild stab that the second weekend of February is the perfect time to open a show?
Whatever it is, there is a huge stack of theater — as Ralph Wiggum would say — to choo-choo-choose from. So if your best boo says they'd love to take you out but there's nothing going on, take the hint — it's time to browse eHarmony.com.
Besides the Jungle's "Two Gentlemen of Verona," here's an overview of openings this weekend:
'Only One Sophie'
Director Michael Robins plumbs his family history for a new musical, written with composer Roberta Carlson. Actor Kersten Rodau will portray Sophie, Robin's grandmother, who left Russia in 1905, walked across Poland and eventually found her way to St. Paul. Through stories and songs, Robins explores the Jewish immigrant experience of the early 20th century. His cast at Illusion Theater includes Bradley Greenwald, Bonni Allen, Jay Hornbacher, Beth Gilleland and Randy Schmeling.
8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., Thu. Ends March 5. Eighth floor, 528 Hennepin Av. S., Mpls. $25-$42. 612-339-4944 or illusiontheater.org.
'The Snowy Day and Other Stories by Ezra Jack Keats'
Children's Theatre Company presents the second world premiere of the weekend. Playwright Jerome Hairston has adapted the work of the renowned children's book author. Peter Brosius and celebrated Italian puppet master Fabrizio Montecchi direct the production, which marks Keats' 100th birthday year. The cast consists of Ivey winner Mikell Sapp, Joy Dolo and longtimer Dean Holt.
7 p.m. Fri., 2 & 5 p.m. Sat.-Sun., 7 p.m. Wed.-Thu. Ends March 20. 2400 3rd Av. S., Mpls. $10-$58. 612-874-0400 or childrenstheatre.org.