Theater seasons generally run the same way school years do—opening in the fall and closing in early summer. Once upon a time, I knew the reasoning behind this, but have since replaced the details with trivia like debit card pin numbers and e-mail passwords. No matter. The new theater season is upon us, whatever the reason for the timing, making way for openings at nearly every theater in town. (For a full schedule, see this week’s Arts Calendar.)On Thursday, Sept. 11, FUSION Theatre Company presents Harold Pinter’s The Homecoming as its first production of its seventh season. Pinter is best known for his subtle, say-something-by-saying-nothing style of playwriting, and FUSION, under the precise direction of Laurie Thomas, aims to put every gut-wrenching pause to its full potential. The Homecoming runs every Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. through Sept. 28 at The Cell (700 First Street NW). Tickets are $25 general and $20 students and seniors, with student and actor rush tickets available every Thursday (except opening night). Call 766-9412 for details and reservations.The players from The Enchanted Rose Theatre bring Ira Levin’s Deathtrap to the stage for its inaugural production at the Aux Dog Theatre (3011 Monte Vista NE). Deathtrap is a murder mystery that once knew success on Broadway and was a made into a classic movie staring Michael Caine, Christopher Reeve and Dyan Cannon. The play opens Friday, Sept. 12, and runs Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Sept. 28. Tickets are $15 general, $12 students and seniors. For info, call 254-7716.
Culture Shock Civic Light Comedy
The Albuquerque Civic Light Opera isn’t an organization of stand-up comedians. Instead, it strives to present quality community musical theater and children’s shows … with the help of stand-up comics. Comedian Ronn Perea, also executive producer of Albuquerque Civic Light Opera, brings together four national comedic acts for a two-night show as a fundraiser for the community musical theater company. Pete Christiansen from Chicago’s improv scene, Southwest borscht-belt comic Roger C. Blair, "The Man" Mike Boyle and Santa Fean Larry Heyeck take over the African American Performing Arts Center on Friday, Sept. 12, and Saturday, Sept. 13, at 8:15 p.m. Admission is $10 and proceeds benefit the Albuquerque Civic Light Opera. Call 222-0785 for reservations.
Culture Shock Hey, Barbie!
How would one of America’s most beloved dolls react to political tensions if she were real? The artists participating in OFFCenter’s exhibit Election Year Barbie don’t care so much about her opinions as much as using her as a miniature model to represent their own political views. The 2- and 3-D works are on display through Oct. 15 with an opening reception on Friday, Sept. 12, from 5 to 8 p.m. OFFCenter Community Arts Gallery is located at 808 Park SW. Call 247-1172 for details.
