Henrik Ibsen’s proto-feminist play Hedda Gabler (first performed in 1891) returns to the stage in a new production at the Pear Theatre. Prepare yourself for a troubled marriage between an emotionally myopic bookworm and his bored, petulant wife. It’s one of the most ill-fated matches in dramatic history. The Norwegian playwright made it clear that 19th-century women should have more options in life than marrying men they don’t love or opting for suicide. In order to ensure an unhappy Nordic ending, the loaded pistols that appear as deadly props are contractually bound to hit their marks. Thru Oct. 28.

Hedda Gabler
Thu, 8pm, $28+
The Pear Theatre, Mountain View

Written by Michael Golamco, this edgy comedy centers on Travis, a Korean-American English teacher living in a small Wyoming town who must compete with a handsome white gym teacher for the affection of his new colleague: an Asian American woman who is only attracted to white men. The ensuing battle is less about her and more about American identity. Based on Cyrano de Bergerac by Edmond Rostand, Cowboy Versus Samurai is much more than your average romcom. This elaborate homage is a sharp social commentary that explores interracial dating, sex and the personal struggle of double consciousness.

Cowboy Versus Samurai
Thu, 8pm, $10
The Pear Theatre, Mountain View

Penned by Athol Fugard, The Road To Mecca follows the story of Miss Helen, a South African widow who finds herself at a crossroads. Harboring an unconventional artistic ability, she must choose between the advice of an old friend to conform to society and the urges of a younger one to follow her heart. Elizabeth Craig, The Pear’s new artistic director, takes the helm, while emeritus director Diane Tasca picks up the lead role as Miss Helen. The play runs through Feb. 11.

The Road To Mecca
Thu, 8pm, $10+
The Pear Theatre, Mountain View

This enduring tale of an early whistleblower explores the perennial war between the press and politicians—a theme as pertinent today as it was when Henrik Ibsen finished the play in 1882. The work has since been adapted by Rebecca Lenkiewicz. An Enemy of the People recounts the story of a scientist and his brother, a local politician, who come to a grave disagreement over just what ought to be done about a shocking report concerning their town’s natural springs. This production, by the Pear Theatre, runs through Nov. 12.

An Enemy of the People
Thu, 8pm, $35+
Pear Theatre, Mountain View

When certain—ahem—“ailments” cannot be resolved, a doctor resolves to administer a novel treatment… involving an electromechanical vibrator. Written by the playwright Sarah Ruhl, In the Next Room or The Vbrator Play was a Pulitzer Prize finalist and Tony Award-nominated production for best new play. At once a humorous send up of 19th-century patriarchal society, the production also examines the advent and spread of electricity. Costume designer Kathleen O’Brien, known for her spot-on recreations of Victorian garb, will help bring this period piece to life.

In The Next Room
Thu, 8pm, $15-$35
Pear Theatre, Mountain View