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Boston Spring Theater Preview

Boston theaters come alive in the springtime. From classic novels adapted for the stage to contemporary Broadway, Boston has everything. Modern and historical theaters boast family musicals, adult comedy and much more. This spring, Boston theaters do not disappoint. This season is proof of why Boston is an arts and culture hub in New England.

Les Miserables
Boston Opera House
539 Washington St.
Boston, MA 02111
(617) 259-3400
www.bostonoperahouse.com

Dates: Through April 1, 2012
Hours: See showtimes and pricing info

The Boston Opera House is a historical theater that had its first show in October of 1928. This year, it is hosting Broadway Across America, which features "Les Miserables" from March 13 to April 1, 2012. The Boston Opera House is also hosting the beautiful Boston Ballet. Come be transported to 19th century France with this traveling adaptation of a Victor Hugo classic.

Cafe Variations
Cutler Majestic Theatre
219 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 824-8000
www.artsemerson.org

Cafe Variations
(credit: artsemerson.org)

Dates: April 13 to April 22, 2012
Price: $25 - $75, depending on seating
Hours: See website for showtimes

"Cafe Variations" is a nod to the cafe plays of Charles Mee and cafe culture in general. The students at Emerson College bring this work by Anne Bogart alive with the award-winning SITI Company. Expect lively music and dancing along with dialogue in this show. There are only eight showings between April 13 and April 22, so there is limited availability.

The Luck of the Irish
Calderwood Pavilion
527 Tremont St.
Boston, MA 02116
(617) 933-8600
www.huntingtontheatre.org

Dates: March 30 to April 29, 2012
Hours: See showtimes and pricing info.

From March 30 to April 29, the Huntington Theatre Company is putting on "The Luck of the Irish" at the Calderwood Pavilion. This show is a play by Kristen Greenidge about two families -- one African-American, one Irish -- that find themselves in an unusual situation in 1950s Boston. The plot follows them all the way up to modern times, showing an interesting look at Boston and the struggles of cultural diversity through the years. This hometown show is earning its writer great praise.

Seussical the Musical
The Hanover Theatre
2 Southbridge St.
Worcester, MA 01608
www.thehanovertheatre.org

Seussical the Musical
(credit: thehanovertheatre.org)

Dates: April 13 to April 15, 2012
Price: $20
Hours: See showtimes

"Seussical" is a musical theater version of Dr. Seuss' "Horton Hears a Who." This story about friendship, trust, suspicion, impending doom and perseverance is a great option for family theater. Children and students enjoy discounts on the weekday showings. Assumption College presents this show.

Nutcracker Turbo (and Other Love Stories)
Loeb Drama Center
64 Brattle St.
Cambridge, MA 02138-3443
(617) 547-8300

Nutcracker Turbo
(credit: americanrepertorytheater.org)

Dates: May 19 - 20, May 22 - 26, 2012
Price: $15
Hours: See showtimes

"Nutcracker Turbo (and Other Love Stories)" is a dramatic representation of nightmares and love with both classic and modern themes. It is an amalgam of "The Nutcracker and the King of Mice" and "The Sandman" by E.T.A. Hoffmann. Lovers of ballet will especially enjoy this production put on by A.R.T. Institute students. There are only four dates for this performance between May 23 and May 26.

Related: Museums Even A Guy Would Like

Shelly Barclay is a professional freelance writer and amateur author. She writes on a variety of topics from food to mysteries. She loves to share the culture and rich history of her birthplace and home, Boston, with the rest of the world. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.


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