1. "Doubt" / Grade: A

The pope's apology for the Catholic sex scandal makes this production of John Patrick Shanley's Pulitzer Prize winner seem all the more topical. But the play is less concerned with whether the priest did it than the impulse to cloak venality in a public mask of good. The Alliance Theatre closes its exceptionally strong post-regional Tony Award season with a nearly flawless 90 minutes of theatrical miracle-making. Through May 4. Alliance Theatre. 404-733-5000, alliancetheatre.org

Greg Mooney (ENLARGE)
Thomas Piper and Cara Mantella play a priest and nun in the ethical drama 'Doubt' at the Alliance Theatre.
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2. "The Little Dog Laughed" / Grade: A-

An irresistibly crisp and campy comedy of manners that mixes the salaciousness of "Queer as Folk" with the satirical edge of "Entourage." Douglas Carter Bean's play exposes the hypocrisy of Hollywood's sexual politics with glee and bite. Be prepared, however, for male nudity, simulated sex and raunchy language. Extended through May 11. Theatre in the Square, Marietta. 770-422-8369, theatreinthesquare.com

3. "The Lion King" / B-

The kids — and the kid in you — will be filled with awe and wonder by director Julie Taymor's one-of-a-kind achievement, which uses puppets and masks to express the beauty of Africa in magical terms — and hits just enough musical high notes to provide an emotionally satisfying Disney experience. Through May 4. Presented by Broadway Across America-Atlanta, Boisfeuillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center. 404-817-8700, ticketmaster.com