THE TOTALITARIANS Jeff Zinn directs the New England premiere of Peter Sinn Nachtrieb’s political satire about the topsy-turvy campaign of a power-mad, Sarah Palin-like candidate in Nebraska. Featuring Amanda Collins, Breean Julian, Alex Portenko, and Lewis D. Wheeler. Through Sept. 24. Gloucester Stage Company, Gloucester. 978-281-4433, www.gloucesterstage.com

BROADWAY BOUNTY HUNTER Waves of raucous energy course through this gonzo new musical by Joe Iconis about a down-on-her-luck Broadway actress, played by Annie Golden (pictured), who transforms herself into a bounty hunter and goes searching for a fugitive drug lord in South America. Featuring excellent performances by Alan H. Green and Jeff Mc­Carthy, plus a dynamic young ensemble that is absolutely essential to this show’s success. Directed by Julianne Boyd. Through Sept. 4. Barrington Stage Company at St. Germain Stage, Sydelle and Lee Blatt Performing Arts Center, Pittsfield. 413-236-8888, www.barringtonstageco.org DON AUCOIN

NOTES FROM THE FIELD: DOING TIME IN EDUCATION In her new solo show, Anna Deavere Smith explores the school-to-prison pipeline, shedding light on a system that sets little children on a path to the penitentiary. Playing myriad characters, Smith gives a virtuoso performance, and while the piece has some gaps and breaks for an earnest yet frustrating audience discussion, it is chilling and timely and addresses critical issues that cannot be ignored. Though Sept. 17. American Repertory Theater, at Loeb Drama Center, Cambridge. 617-547-8300, www.american repertorytheater.org

PATTI HARTIGAN

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