AUGUST WILSON’S HOW I LEARNED WHAT I LEARNED Eugene Lee’s portrayal of the late August Wilson captures his seriousness of purpose but also the capacity for joy and wonder possessed by the remarkable playwright who gave us “Fences,’’ “Joe Turner’s Come and Gone,’’ “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,’’ and other landmark dramas. Through April 3. Huntington Theatre Company at BU Theatre, Boston. 617-266-0800, www.huntingtontheatre.org

BOOTYCANDY Part kaleidoscope, part funhouse mirror, Robert O’Hara’s comedy (pictured) unfolds in a series of freewheeling sketches that weigh the complications of identity, especially being black and gay. Contains nudity. Through April 9. SpeakEasy Stage Company at Roberts Studio Theatre, Calderwood Pavilion, Boston Center for the Arts. 617-933-8600, www.speakeasystage.com

BLACKBERRY WINTER Adrianne Krstansky, whose performances often delve deep (“Come Back, Little Sheba,’’ “The New Electric Ballroom,’’ “Three Viewings’’) stars in Steve Yockey’s drama as Vivienne, a middle-age woman forced to confront the decline of her mother from Alzheimer’s disease. Also featuring Paula Langton and Ken Cheeseman. Directed by Bridget Kathleen O’Leary. A National New Play Network “rolling world premiere.’’ March 26-April 17. New Repertory Theatre, Charles Mosesian Theater, Arsenal Center for the Arts, Watertown. 617-923-8487, www.new rep.org DON AUCOIN

Don Aucoin can be reached at aucoin@globe.com.