John D'Aversa and Giselle Gaztambide in The Passion of Dracula, photo by the Augustana Photo Bureau and Lauren Beckerand Amanda MooreIf any local-theatre venue sets the bar for scenic design, I'd make a case for Augustana College. Anyone who doubts the theatre department's candidacy should see its presentation of The Passion of Dracula, with its set that's the latest in a long line of remarkable constructs.

Michael Phillips, Lisa Pilgrim, and Claira Hart in EcclesiazusaeGenesius Guild's Ecclesiazusae is perhaps the most ridiculous thing I've ever seen on a local stage, and that's what I found so charming about it.