Is He Dead?

Jean-François Millet is a mid-nineteenth century painter whose work just doesn't sell. But while he has no food, he does have a circle of pals — a German, an Irishman and an American — who convince Millet his work would become exceedingly collectible if he were to die. And so Jean-François dies, leaving his "twin sister" Daisy to manage his estate and rake in the francs. This solution brings more complications to "Daisy's" life, as Jean-François' landlord and his former creditor both attempt to pursue a relationship with Daisy. Mark Twain's farcical play Is He Dead? lay unpublished for more than a century because it was both lackluster and dull. It's been punched up by the supremely funny David Ives, and now has a new lease on life. St. Louis Shakespeare opens its 33rd season with Is He Dead? Performances are at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday (August 4 to 13) at the Ivory Theatre (7622 Michigan Avenue; www.stlshakespeare.org). There is one additional performance at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, August 10. Tickets are $18 to $20.