Finding Neverland
The ART and Hollywood mogul Harvey Weinstein plan to hold hands and fly to Broadway with this new family musical showing how playwright J.M. Barrie was inspired to write “Peter Pan” by a widow and her four sons in 1904 London. A good cast and terrific stagecraft from director Diane Paulus and crew overcome the rather pedestrian songs. Through Sept. 28. American Repertory Theater, Loeb Drama Center, Cambridge. 617-547-8300, www.americanrepertorytheater.org
FENCES August Wilson’s Pulitzer Prize-winner about the black experience in 1950s Pittsburgh feels fresh and relevant in this rugged production. Daver Morrison (pictured) is charismatic and commanding as a former Negro League baseball star who is now stuck in the grind of a job hauling garbage, but Jermel Nakia is a scene-stealer as a wounded veteran. The play is convincing in its suggestion that a strong family is the best defense against a system that would beat you down. Through Sept. 7. Gloucester Stage Company, Gorton Theatre. 978-281-4433, www.gloucesterstage.com
SISTER PLAY Tropes including family secrets and a mysterious stranger who exposes them are given a fresh rendering in this world premiere play by John Kolvenbach. Brenda Withers and Stacy Fischer head a stellar ensemble. Through Sept. 6. Harbor Stage Company, Wellfleet. 508-349-6800, www.harborstage.org
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Don Aucoin can be reached at aucoin@globe.com.