FRIDAY
Hamlet: Amy Keen directs a gritty new take on “Hamlet,” driven by rock music and with the title character looking a lot like Kurt Cobain. Through June 15 by Polarity Ensemble Theatre at Athenaeum Theatre, 2936 N. Southport Ave.; $20, 773-935-6860 and www.petheatre.com.
SATURDAY
First Breeze of Summer: Leslie Lee’s rarely produced drama follows three generations of an African-American family. Ron OJ Parson’s cast includes Calvin Dutton, Jacqueline Williams and A.C. Smith. Through June 15 by Court Theatre, 5535 S. Ellis Ave.; $38-$54, 773-753-4472; www.courttheatre.org.
MONDAY
21st Annual Directors Festival: Up-and-coming directors strut their stuff at the Bailiwick Repertory’s annual fete. Through June 25 at Bailiwick Repertory Theatre, 1229 W. Belmont Ave.; 773-883-1090 or www.bailiwick.org
THURSDAY
Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story: The oft-revived musical about the late music star — who died in an airplane crash while on tour — is born once again in Oak Brook. The show contains all Holly’s big hits, including “Peggy Sue” and “Oh Boy.” Through July 27 at Drury Lane Oak Brook, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace; $42.75-$51, 630-530-8300.
