Performances run through July 11. Pickard Theater, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, $111-$175. msmt.org.
Maine State Music Theatre invites you to celebrate America’s 250th birthday by seeing the musical “1776.” “1776” has been telling the story of the Founding Fathers and the messy origins of democracy long before “Hamilton” burst onto Broadway. With songs like “Sit Down, John,” “But, Mr. Adams” and “Molasses to Rum,” “1776” unpacks America’s history in humorous and poignant fashion. Don’t throw away your shot to see it this summer.
5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursday. Crewe Center for the Arts at University of Southern Maine, 111 Bedford St., Portland, free. usm.maine.edu.
“Even As We Grieve” features artwork and audio from a partnership between the Portland Recovery Community Center, Commonspace and the University of Southern Maine Art Gallery. Artist Peter Bruun’s drawings and paintings were created after his daughter’s overdose death in 2014. Along with the exhibit of his work, the evening includes live music, resource tables and light refreshments. There will also be a PRCC performance that explores lived experiences of recovery, grief, connection and community care. A facilitated conversation closes out the event.
8 p.m. Thursday. State Theatre, 609 Congress St., Portland, $35 in advance, $40 day of show. statetheatreportland.com.
“Coin-O-Matic” is the brand new album from Providence, Rhode Island-based alternative rock band Deer Tick. Hear songs from the album and several previous releases at the Portland performance. “Coin-O-Matic” centers on the hidden histories of Rhode Island, including the struggles of working-class families and the presence of the mafia. Songs like “Mary Singletary,” “Everything Born” and “ACI” illustrate these themes. Singer-songwriter Jobi Riccio opens the show with songs from her latest album, “Face The Feeling.”
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11:30 a.m. – 9 p.m. Thursday and Friday, 11:30 a.m. -8 p.m. Saturday. Greek Orthodox Church, 133 Pleasant St., Portland. htrinityportland.org/greek-festival.
The Greek Festival in Portland is a delicious spot to grab lunch or dinner, and you’ll have plenty of savory and sweet options to choose from. Plus, you can grab a seat under the huge tent and, depending on when you’re there, enjoy Greek music and dancing. Be sure to bring your appetite because a world of spanakopita, lamb souvlaki, baklava and many other mouth-watering options will be available.
Rides depart from 9:45 a.m. – 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Seashore Trolley Museum, 195 Log Cabin Road, Kennebunkport, $15, free for kids under three. trolleymuseum.org.
The Seashore Trolley Museum is the world’s oldest and largest collection of trolleys and other mass transit vehicles. They’re putting a prehistoric twist on this weekend with Dino Trolley rides. Riders will search for dozens of dinosaur silhouettes hidden along the route. The Dino Big Dig will have kids searching for dinosaur bones in the museum’s archeological dig site. There’s also a Dino Egg Hunt for prize-filled eggs around the museum grounds. Or try the Let’s Explore Dinosaurs scavenger hunt and other dinosaur-themed activities including a photo station. Dino Trolley also runs the weekends of Aug. 8-9 and Sept. 5-6.
9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Saturday. Central School, 197 Main St., South Berwick. southberwickstrawberryfestival.com.
Sweeten up your Saturday by heading to the annual Strawberry Festival in South Berwick. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the event that attracts huge crowds of strawberry fans. Strawberry shortcake will be readily available. The day also includes a craft fair with more than 100 New England artisans. You’ll also be entertained by the band South Side Blues and Wes the Magician, among other acts. Games, amusement rides and kids’ activities round out the festival.
8 p.m. Monday, June 29. State Theatre, 609 Congress St., Portland, $35-$69.50. statetheatreportland.com.
Fans of Scott Aukerman’s improvisational comedy podcast Comedy Bang! Bang! can catch a live version of it during the Portland stop of the Ground Beefing tour. Joined by Paul F. Tompkins and the Comedy Bang! Bang! All-Stars, the evening promises to be a nonstop, hilarious romp. As with anything improv, be ready to expect the unexpected from a show that dates back to 2009.
