If you are wondering why there are no new theater openings, some of it has to do with the fact that theater people like to celebrate the holidays too. However, some theaters are opening later because so many theaters have been hit hard by Connecticut’s snow storms. No one could have anticipated the warm spell we have been experiencing so far this winter. Nonetheless, if you’re patient, here is what is coming your way live at local theaters.

Downtown Cabaret Theatre, Bridgeport

The Great Gatsby

Feb. 12 - Feb. 21

F. Scott Fitzgerald’s

The Great Gatsby

Adapted for the stage by: Simon Levy

Based on the 1925 novel written by  F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby follows a cast of characters living in Long Island in the summer of 1922. The story primarily concerns the young and mysterious millionaire Jay Gatsby and his quixotic passion and obsession for the beautiful former debutante Daisy Buchanan. It’s considered to be Fitzgerald’s masterpiece.

Eastbound Theatre, Milford

Feb. 5- 21

Hollywood Arms

by Carrie Hamilton and Carol Burnett

Basing their work on the memoir One More Time by the great comedienne, mother and daughter collaborated for a play that balances the humor and poignancy of a family living in a one-room apartment one block north of Hollywood Boulevard.

Helen leaves Texas in 1941 with her grandmother, looking to join her mother in California, where Louise is struggling with both her writing and her drinking. Since her estranged father is barely in the picture, Helen accompanies her grandmother to bargain matinees at the movies, and spends time with young Malcolm on the rooftop.

As time passes, Helen’s early talent for characters and impersonations leads her to the theatre arts program at UCLA, as her enthusiasm and creativity continue to clash with the problems faced by her family.

Music Theatre of CT, Westport

April 17 - May 3

Little Shop of Horrors

Book and Lyrics by Howard Ashman   Music by Alan Menken

This is an  irresistible rock musical comedy about a hapless florist shop worker, the girl of his dreams and one very voracious plant.

Note: This production contains adult language and horror elements, and is suggested for children 11 and up. Children under 6 will not be admitted.

Phoenix Stage Company, Oakville

Cops

Jan. 16 – 30

Formerly of Naugatuck, this theater moved to nearby Oakville. The first play of the new year is a gritty, realistic dramatic comedy that is set in a Chicago diner where three policemen play cruel practical jokes on the few late  night customers and tell stories about themselves and fellow officers.

Note: This show contains strong adult language and sexual content.

Square One Theatre Company, Stratford

The Outgoing Tide

March 3-20

In a summer cottage on Chesapeake Bay, Gunner has hatched an unorthodox plan to secure his family’s future but meets with resistance from his wife and son, who have plans of their own. As winter approaches, the three must quickly find common ground and come to an understanding — before the tide goes out.