[image-1]Christine Decker, a formidable Mother Superior in Doubt, returns to American Stage to play another intimidating creature: Martha, the unholy harridan in Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, Edward Albee’s searing portrait of marriage as battlefield. The play also stars newcomers Matt Huffman and Richard B. Watson. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Tues., Wed. and Thurs. at 7:30 p.m. (No Tuesday performances Apr. 5 or 12); 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Pay-what-you-can nights are March 15, 22, 29 and April 19. $29-$50. Students rush tickets are $10, 30 minutes prior to curtain. March 8-April 23. American Stage, 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg. 727-823-7529. americanstage.org. (David Warner contributed to this report.)
[image-2]Sweet Storm. Scott Hudson's Florida love story, set in Lithia in 1960 and based on his parents’ real-life story, received a staged reading as part of the Gorilla Reading Series and now returns to the Gorilla in a full production with its original cast. The critically praised play is directed by James Rayfield and stars Heather Atkinson and Chris Jackson. (Read Mark Leib's review for Creative Loafing: He liked the performances, but felt the play needed a second act.) Show runs Thursdays through Sunday through March 20. March 9 and March 16 are pay what you can at the door. Tickets are $20 on Thursdays and $25 on weekends; $10 student rush and other discounts are available. Call for info. Feb. 24-March 20. Gorilla Theatre, 4419 N. Hubert Ave. #D, Tampa. 813-879-2914.
[image-3]Ra Ra Riot w/The Luyas/Sleepy Vikings Two records deep and quirky Syracuse, N.Y.-based chamber pop outfit Ra Ra Riot has already generated a vigorous indie buzz, their upbeat songwriting textured with the sophisticated sounds of a two-piece string section (violinist Rebecca Zeller and cellist Alexandra Lawn). This tour supports their second LP, The Orchard, released last year via Barsuk Records. (Crowbar, Ybor City; information courtesy of Leilani Polk,)
With the weather being so lovely, it's prime time to take a stroll at Corey Avenue's Sidewalk Sale. More than 17 merchants clear out merchandise and offer deep discounts and BOGO deals while live bands perform. Refreshments are served in participating stores, all of which are within walking distance. Free parking. March 9-12, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach. 727-498-8778. coreyave.com.
