We all know Boston is a center of artistic expression. However, with so many options, it can be difficult to choose what to do and where to go. To help solve that dilemma, we’re bringing you a selection of some of the best arts events and exhibits in the next week.
Shakespeare in Love: The Speakeasy Stage Company’s production of “Shakespeare in Love” follows an imaginative retelling of how The Bard found inspiration and love. An adaptation of the Academy Award winning movie, the show combines both Shakespearean and theatrical tropes to create a testament to the fun of the creating theater and the power of a beautiful love. Though a lack of student tickets makes this one of the pricier options, it is still an excellent piece of theater. “Shakespeare” runs through Feb. 10 with talkbacks on Sundays. There is also a party with the cast, crew and free food Friday, Feb.19.
Mala: The Huntington Theatre Company’s production of “Mala” is similarly impressive, a one-woman show about family and our attempts to define ourselves as ‘good.’ Created by renowned Boston playwright Melinda Lopez, the show talks about the first-generation and Cuban-American experiences in order to make larger points about our humanity. With glowing reviews, seating is limited but student tickets run only $20. The show runs through Feb. 4.
Road Show: If you want a classic musical experience, Lyric Stage’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s “Road Show” will satisfy with a classic Sondheim score and an adventurous story. Following two brothers seeking to fulfill the American dream in the 1800s, the show illustrates the difficulty and dangers that follow any such dreamers. Though darker than typical Sondheim at times, the show largely preserves the musical spirit of extravagant fun and is held together by the classic Sondheim song. Student rush tickets are $10.
Black Spaces Matter: In a less theatrical vein, Boston Architectural College’s exhibit ‘Black Spaces Matter’ explores an 18th century abolitionist town in order to better understand race, architecture and the climate of the time. Massachusetts banned slavery more than 80 years before the Thirteenth Amendment but faced difficulties enforcing this in the slavery dominated U.S. The neighborhood on display at BAC, however, was able to uphold its ideals and prevent any ‘reclamations’ of its freed slaves. The architectural focus of the exhibit gives a unique perspective on one of this nation’s most important issues and makes it highly compelling to those interested in any of the exhibit’s themes. Admission is free.
Museum of Fine Arts: The MFA is a classic Boston attraction, and with free admission for Brandeis students and staff, it’s even more intriguing. There is a wide range of oddly specific exhibits on display right now, from ‘Black and White Japanese Modern Art’ to ‘Masterpieces of Dutch and Flemish Painting,’ and ‘The German Woodcut.’ Other exhibitions include “(Un)expected Families,’ which uses photography to explore the concept of family, a gallery of work from master Mark Rothko, and ‘Landscape Abstracted’ which presents a contemporary reinvention of landscape art. Also, exclusively during January, the museum is screening rare classic movies, tickets to which college students can buy the day of for $5.
Museum of Bad Art: If you are not interested in fine arts, consider the Museum of Bad Art, which displays “Art too bad to be ignored.” The MOBA seeks to display exclusively the talentless, the poorly done and the tasteless. The results are, as one would expect, disappointing but if you have ever wanted to visit a museum where you can laugh at the art, feel better about your own artistic abilities, or wonder what exactly makes are “good,” the MOBA is the perfect place. The museum has three locations. Admission to two is free while another, located in a movie theater, is free with the purchase of a ticket.
Improv Boston: Improv Boston is a classic comedy club, showcasing all kinds of shows designed to make you laugh. With glowing reviews, a different show every night, and student discounts at the door, it is one of the best places to go for your dose of funny in Boston. Details about their performances can be found online, but with shows ranging from ‘Naked Comedy’ to ‘You’re All Gonna Die: An Improvised Dystopian Game Show,’ there is something for everyone.
