The Old Globe, San Diego
Many a Broadway-bound musical has had a tryout at the Old Globe, a nearly 75-year-old institution. Currently working out its kinks is The First Wives Club, based on Olivia Goldsmith's guilty-pleasure novel (and subsequent movie) about three women seeking revenge on their philandering husbands. The cast has substantial theater cred, as does librettist Rupert Holmes (Curtains, The Mystery of Edwin Drood); by contrast, the songwriting team is steeped more in Motown than musicals — Brian Holland, Lamont Dozier and Eddie Holland created hits for groups like The Supremes and Martha and the Vandellas — but that might be ideal for a tale about femme empowerment. On a more summery note, the Globe also has an annual outdoor festival of classics: laugh at Twelfth Night, cry at Coriolanus or do a little of both at Cyrano de Bergerac, all playing in rep amid the eucalyptus trees of Balboa Park. Tickets & info: 619-234-5623