Civic Theatre’s latest production, “Steel Magnolias,” highlights the eternal strength of women through life’s ups and downs. Set in Truvy’s Beauty Salon in late ’80s small-town Louisiana, the set, costumes and characters all reflect the time and place — from teased up hair held by hairspray, to blush pink carpets and strong southern accents.

The genius of the creative collaboration between composer Leonard Bernstein and choreographer Jerome Robbins, two legends in their own right, is perhaps more lasting than love. That is, if we are to believe the larger theme of “On the Town,” the grand 1940s musical they created together based on their previous ballet, “Fancy Free.”

If there’s one thing anyone who’s ever been to The Barn Theatre in Augusta knows, it’s that they know how to do a killer rock musical. And anyone who’s had the good fortune of seeing shows there this summer certainly knows the 72nd season company of Michigan’s oldest resident summer stock theater is well-versed in brilliant, campy comedy.

When patrons visit the renovated Howmet Playhouse in Whitehall, not only can they expect new seats, carpets and restrooms, but they’ll see features of the building’s historic character unveiled.