Backbeat
More than the backstory of how The Beatles became The Beatles, Backbeat is a musical that focuses on the triangular relationship between the band’s original bassist, Stuart Sutcliffe, the German photographer with whom he fell in love and his friendship with John Lennon. (Sorry, Ringo fans, but he’s not in this production.)
Royal Alexandra Theatre, 260 King St. W., 416-872-1212. Now – Sept 2.
Beirut
Oh, what we wouldn’t do for love, right? Like sneaking into a quarantined area of New York, which is what a woman does to be with her lover in this Alan Bowne play (which was turned into a TV movie with Cuba Gooding Jr.).
Unit 102 Theatre, 376 Dufferin St., 416-532-4422. July 26 – Aug 5.
The Sunshine Boys — Top pick!
Neil Simon’s comedy takes a look at two vaudeville veterans who must overcome their dislike for each other to reunite for a TV special (this too was made into a TV movie with Woody Allen and Peter “Columbo” Falk).
Young Centre for the Performing Arts, 50 Tank House, 416-866-8666. July 26 – Sept. 22.
Hair
Before the Occupy movement, there was Hair. This groundbreaking rock musical is about more than a group of hot-headed hippies; it’s about young men and women (with gorgeous hair) protesting their government’s foreign relations and the impact it has on their lives.
Randolph Theatre, 736 Bathurst St.,416-924-2243 x 266. July 24 – Aug 4.
Voyage to Your Mind
Haim Goldenberg is back with his mind(blowing) games. The TV entertainer will play games and tricks and basically change your reality as you know it!
George Ignatieff Theatre, 15 Devonshire Place, 416-978-4166. July 26, 31 and August 2.
