Different Venue

One of the chief virtues of Metropolitan Ensemble Theatre is the way this no-longer-upstart-but-not-quite-established company flourishes anywhere it can. Like our hardiest evolutionary ancestors, MET is quick to adapt, which means it survives, even in a sustenance-starved environment like this recession-plagued arts scene. Part of surviving is expanding territory, and MET stakes out new ground when it presents script-in-hand performances of the witty musical Love & Shrimp — lyrics by poet, novelist and beloved children’s book author Judith Viorst and music by Shelly Markham — at the intimate Writers Place (3607 Pennsylvania) tonight through Saturday. MET director Karen Paisley and music director Lenora Remmert have assembled an impressive cast, including Katie Kalahurka and Bonita Hanson. Set in a recital hall and filled with memorable paens to “The Plain Old Everyday,” Love & Shrimp features three women laboring to make the most of their lives. That’s appropriate from a theater company — and a place for writers — dedicated to making the most of a city. The show starts at 7:30 p.m.; for reservations and tickets, call 816-753-1090.

Thu., March 19, 7 p.m.; Fri., March 20, 7 p.m.; Sat., March 21, 7 p.m., 2009