On tap this week is a 40-year thespian celebration in the city's favorite amphitheater, a New Orleans-themed community party, a world premiere theater production, a festival that lauds the Lenoir grape and a fabulous costumed young professionals fundraiser-cum-dance party. 

David Rainey, who plays Falstaff in the history play Henry IV, Part 1 and Antonio in an inventive staging of the comedy The Two Gentlemen of Verona, says that for Shakespeare to be successful it takes thespians who are comfortable with and understand every nuance of the text.  Only then can audiences move beyond some of the unfamiliar vocabulary to understand the depth of characterization that renders these works as relevant today as they were in the 16th century. 

Stroll, shop and drink your way through a charming ambiance borrowed from the spirit of New Orleans as The Heights is transformed into a community party that spotlights the merchants, artists and good-doing folks that add color to this historic nabe. 

Don't worry about getting around as the Wave shuttle and Lone Star bike cabs will be offering free rides.  If you find yourself on White Oak, stop by Gelazzi for free scoops of Italian ice (the lemon is to die for). 

You have to admire small theater companies such as Mildred's Umbrella Theatre Company for having the vision to stage world premiere performances.  In an interview on Broadway World, playwright Keian McKee says that her work, directed by Matt Huff, will transform viewers. 

Pollywog is the story of Polly's conversion from an innocent 9-year-old into the caretaker of her mother and swim instructor who suffers a debilitating stroke.  The protagonist relives her experiences as she prepares to scatter her mother's ashes in the ocean. 

Grape picking and stomping, wine luncheons, tastings, food classes and themed dinners are part of the summer tradition at Messina Hof Winery and Resort (full schedule here).  The winery, with locations in Bryan and Fredericksburg, pays homage to the Lenoir grape with a series of interactive events during which visitors delight in winemaking traditions. 

The people watching is fabulous at this annual young professionals costume party in which guests go all out as they summon their inner rock star chic.  Chaired by Natalie Alfaro and Mayra Cuello, the fundraiser moves from to Winter Street Studios for the 13th annual 1990s-themed bash that always morphs into a high-decibel dance soirée.