I’m not supposed to say this. But the truth of the matter is that this time of year it’s hard for theater to compete with parades, fireworks, and the plethora of summer activities that we, here in Michigan, have approximately three months to enjoy.

While I’m sharing industry secrets, I’ll tell you this: Summer is a great time for Buy-One-Get-One (BOGO) offers, deep discounts, and other incentives that theaters use to lure you inside. This week, both The Purple Rose and Performance Network have special 4th of July offers, listed below.

So, as my father used to say on road trips, “keep your eyes peeled.” When things get too hot, or muggy, or buggy, Washtenaw Theaters are here for you. There’s never been a better time to enjoy air-conditioned theaters, great deals, and summer comedies to surprise and delight you!

Show: “Becky Shaw” by Gina Gionfriddo, through July 28
Company: Performance Network Theatre
Type of Company: Professional Equity SPT
Venue/location: Performance Network Theatre, 120 E. Huron, Ann Arbor
Recommended ages: 16+ (contains adult language and content)
Description: The New York Times called it “a tangled tale of love, sex and ethics…as engrossing as it is ferociously funny, like a big box of fireworks fizzing and crackling across the stage.” Step-siblings Suzanna and Max couldn’t be more different. When the shy sister fixes the cocky brother up with her husband’s sexy and sweet co-worker, the blind date takes a dark turn and crisis and comedy ensue. Mixing sharp wit and humor with the taut suspense of a psychological thriller, this comedy of romantic errors keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Review from Examiner.com
Fun fact: Leading Actress Sarab Kamoo’s film credits are extensive and include work on “The Giant Mechanical Man” with Jenna Fischer and “Stone” with Robert DeNiro. For upcoming projects and full film bio check out her IMDB page at www.imdb.com/name/nm1310335/
For tickets and information: 734-663-0681, www.performancenetwork.org
Special ticket offer: Buy One Get One Free to the Thursday, 4th of July performance at 7:30 p.m. New reservations only please.

Show: “Miles & Ellie” by Don Zolidis, through August 31
Company: The Purple Rose Theatre Company
Type of Company: Professional Equity SPT
Venue/location: The Purple Rose Theatre Company, 137 Park Street, Chelsea
Recommended ages: 17+ (contains adult language and content)
Description: Miles and Ellie are two teenagers in love when a youthful misunderstanding breaks them apart. Flash forward 20 years and a disenchanted Ellie has come home for what she expects to be a typical dysfunctional family Thanksgiving. Not long into the family shenanigans, however, Ellie learns that Miles is still in town and carrying a torch for her. Is it possible to get a second chance at your first love? This charming romantic comedy will make you wonder “what if?”
Review from Examiner.com
Fun fact: Due to the large number of Barbie dolls that are needed for the production, Chelsea Alehouse has graciously offered to take Barbie donations through July 26. Donate a Barbie to be entered in a raffle to win a Chelsea Alehouse gift certificate and Purple Rose theater tickets! Chelsea Alehouse is located at 420 N. Main Street, Suite 100, Chelsea, Michigan.
For tickets and information: purplerosetheatre.org, 734-433-7673
Special ticket offer: Buy One Get One Free to the Thursday, 4th of July performance at 8 p.m. Discount code FIREWORKS. Limit 4 tickets per coupon, new reservations only please.