On the boards this week

Capsule reviews of shows playing on Atlanta stages. Comments are by AJC theater critic Wendell Brock.

LAST CHANCE

“Going With Jenny”

Structured as a set of monologues that ultimately blend into a brief “make-up” session, this world premiere by the husband-and-wife team of Thomas and Sherry Jo Ward is a gently likable variation on the marital phenom known as the seven-year itch. Former Atlantans who now teach at Baylor University, the Wards deliver a sweet, nicely written play that draws honesty and truth from real life.

Final performance: 2:30 p.m. today. Theatrical Outfit, Balzer Theater at Herren’s. 678-528-1500, theatricaloutfit.org

RECOMMENDED

“Smart Cookie”

In this zingy world premiere by Julia Brownell, the life of Manhattan socialite Cookie Walsh (played to the hilt by the remarkable Courtenay Collins) comes to a screeching halt when her 16-year-old son impregnates a Spanish exchange student at his New England prep school. This delightful satire —- winner of the Alliance Theatre’s prestigious Kendeda Graduate Playwriting Competition —- suggests Brownell is a pretty smart cookie herself.

Through Feb. 22. Alliance Theatre, Hertz Stage. 404-733-5000, alliancetheatre.org

“Jesus Christ Superstar GOSPEL”

Wondrously re-envisioned by arranger Louis St. Louis and directed with graceful precision by Susan V. Booth, this gospelization of the 1971 rock opera by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice is an epochal event in the Alliance’s 40-year history, virtually guaranteed to be the smash hit of the Atlanta season.

Through Feb. 22. Alliance Theatre. 404-733-5000, alliancetheatre.org

“Kooza”

Wusses beware. The latest offering from the Montreal-based circus is physical theater in the extreme. Not every trick lands perfectly, and the suspense level consistently operates from a place of pure fear.

Through March 1. Cirque du Soleil. Atlantic Station (In the big blue and yellow tent). 1-800-678-5440, cirquedusoleil.com

“Mauritius”

In Theresa Rebeck’s dark comedy, two tiny slips of paper —- the “crown jewels” of the philately world —- are the impetus for an ever-shifting game of manipulation, betrayal, sibling rivalry and cunning. Talk about trading licks.

Through Feb. 21. Actor’s Express. 404-607-7469, actors-express.com