‘The Two Gentlemen of Verona’ at Blackfriars Playhouse through 11/15

Spotlighting Shakespeare at his most playful, The Two Gentlemen of Verona follows Proteus and Valentine, two young men who swear nothing can come between them—until amorous affections enter the scene. Loyalties are tested, disguises donned, and hearts broken as friendship tangles with romance and characters stumble through the beautiful, messy chaos of growing up. And there’s a dog!

Through Saturday 11/15. Times and prices vary. Blackfriars Playhouse, 10 S. Market St., Staunton. americanshakespearecenter.com

Free news is good news!

Nearly $1 million a year goes into the work you’re reading—covering local government, spotlighting the arts, and telling the stories no one else does. If you value that, help fund it for $10 a month (or whatever tax-deductible gift you can afford). Click to save the free word.