LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST An early Shakespeare comedy in which the King of Navarre (played by Justin Blanchard) and his noblemen decide to devote themselves to scholarship and abjure the company of women — until, that is, the Princess of France (Jennifer Ellis) and her attending ladies arrive in the kingdom. Directed by Steven Maler. Through Aug. 7. Commonwealth Shakespeare Company, on Boston Common. General seating is free. Reserved seating: 617-426-0863, www.commshakes.org

THE T PARTY A bracingly original take on gender identity by playwright-director Natsu Onoda Power, told in a whirling theatrical language that is all her own: playful, idiosyncratic, self-indulgent at times, often bursting with energy and ideas. Through Aug. 13. Company One Theatre at Roberts Studio Theatre, Calderwood Pavilion, Boston Center for the Arts. 617-933-8600, www.bostontheatrescene.com

CUISINE & CONFESSIONS The ingenious circus troupe known as Les 7 doigts de la main (pictured) is back in Boston with the US premiere of a show that explores our relationship to food, by means acrobatic, aerial, choreographic, and culinary. Created and staged by Shana Carroll and Sebastien Soldevila, it’s a not-to-be-missed banquet for the senses. Through Aug. 7. Production by Les 7 doigts de la main presented by ArtsEmerson and Jonathan Reinis Productions at Cutler Majestic Theatre, Boston. 617-824-8400, www.artsemerson.org

THE LAST SCHWARTZ A combative family reunion is at the center of this dark comedy by Deborah Zoe Laufer, directed by Paula Plum. Though not without its flaws, “The Last Schwartz’’ cuts deep, and you can’t help but admire the audacity and speed of Laufer’s U-turns from whimsy to utter seriousness and back again. Through July 30. Gloucester Stage Company, Gloucester. 978-281-4433, www.gloucesterstage.com DON AUCOIN

Don Aucoin can be reached at aucoin@globe.com.