OPENING THIS WEEK
Vanya
Academy Award-winner William Hurt joins the ART ensemble in an adaptation of Chekov's Vanya. Artists Repertory Theatre, 1516 SW Alder, 241-1278. www.artistsrep.org. $20-40. Wed, 7 pm, Thurs, 2 & 7 pm, Fri, 8 pm, Sat, 8 pm and Sun, 2 & 7 pm. Through Feb 25.
CURRENT RUNS
Number Three
Third Rail Repertory has already gained a reputation as one of the finest theater companies in town. Known for edgy, challenging productions, they're pushing the envelope even further with this world premiere of local playwright Ebbe Roe Smith's Number Three (voted audience favorite at 2005's JAW/West festival). I'm looking forward to this one. Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center, 5340 N Interstate, 246-3210. thirdrailrep.org. $15-24. Thurs-Sat, 8 pm and Sun, 2 pm. Through Feb 10.
COMEDY/IMPROV
Loop: An Original Workplace Comedy
Just in case you don't spend enough time at work/thinking about work/drunkenly telling your friends how much you hate work, Loop is an "original workplace comedy" that invites you to "imagine all of your worst co-worker nightmares come to life" (and then, presumably, to laugh at them). Shoe Box Theatre, 2110 SE 10th, 235-2633. $10-12. Fri, 10 pm. Through Feb 9.
DANCE
DIVISION OF FORM
Extreme Dance presents an "eclectic collection of contemporary movement, local musicians, and original music in a living room seating arrangement." Proceeds go toward the company's upcoming trip to the Edinburgh Fringe Fest. Crown Ballroom, 918 SW Yamhill, 887-7994. $18-23. Wed, Thurs, 7 pm. Through Jan 25.