The Iceman Cometh, Goodman Theatre, through June 17. For the refugees lost in "pipe dreams" at Harry's bar, the pipe sustaining those dreams is alcohol and defeat—a combination making for a long evening with no happy endings, but under Robert Falls' direction, worth every minute. MSB
The Pirates of Penzance, Marriott Theatre, Lincolnshire, through June 10. Gilbert and Sullivan's comic 1879 operetta gets a joyously silly and vigorously choreographed production courtesy of director Dominic Missimi and choreographer Matt Raftery. SCM
Timon of Athens, Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier, through June 10. Two hours in the company of a spendthrift-turned-street grouch might not sound like a fun evening at first, but damned if Ian McDiarmid doesn't have us cheering on the scrappy old curmudgeon by the end. MSB
When the Rain Stops Falling, Circle Theatre, Oak Park, through June 17. A jigsaw puzzle, this Australian play is about four generations, two families and two continents—but stick with it for its richly poetic rewards in dealing with love and loss. It's beautifully acted against gorgeous projections. JA
—By Abarbanel, Barnidge and Morgan
