Philly Theatre Week, the annual celebration of artists, organizations and audiences that brings productions to venues throughout the city returns April 4 to 14 with several presentations scheduled for Northwest Philadelphia.

The 10-day event features pay-what-you-can tickets for all performances. Festivities kick off with a special preview at the Temple Performing Arts Center in North Philadelphia on Monday, April 1 at 6 p.m. 

“We are excited to continue our mission for more accessible theater for the Greater Philadelphia community,” said Theatre Philadelphia Executive Director Sabriaya Shipley. 

Among the Northwest Philadelphia highlights:

Theater picnic

Theatre Philadelphia & Yes! And... Collaborative Arts Community Picnic, 3 p.m., April 13, 21 W Washington Lane. Theatre Philadelphia is partnering with Yes! And... Collaborative Arts for a community picnic featuring live music, indoor/outdoor games, a crafts circle, and a free book exchange - all leading up and encouraging the community to support youth-led theatre at the Yes And.. Shadow Company's show "The Meal."

‘Hatshepsut’

A World premiere about the true story of an Ancient Egyptian Queen who became a pharaoh and then was erased from history.  Venice Island Performing Arts and Recreation Center, 7 Lock St., Manayunk, Thursday, April 4, 7:30 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 6001 Germantown Ave., Germantown, Saturday, April 6, 2 p.m. Braid Mill, 441 High St., Germantown, Friday, April 12, 7:30 p.m. Lil Filmmaker, 6156 Ridge Ave., Roxborough, Friday, April 12, 7:30 p.m.

‘Macbeth’

A kingdom at war. A celebrated soldier and his ambitious wife look to their future. Three witches promise power and prophecy greatness. Steeped so far in blood, screw courage to the sticking place, and allow vaulting ambition to reign… the Macbeths are back in town. Quintessence Theatre Group in Mt. Airy presents the Shakespearean tragedy, April 4-14. Sedgewick Theatre, 7137 Germantown Ave. Mt. Airy

‘The Importance of Being Earnest’

The Drama Group of Germantown presents the classical comedy by the wittiest playwright to put pen to paper is being produced as the great big gay farce it has always been. With a show about hiding identités, this comedy brings the true self to the forefront. Friday, April 12, 8 p.m.; Saturday, April 13, 8 p.m. and Sunday, April 14, 3 p.m.  First United Methodist Church of Germantown, 6001 Germantown Ave.

‘The Meal’

Ahoy sailors, you are formally invited to the Captain's Special Dinner! Wear your fanciest fit, bring your appetite and leave the kids at home (you see the captain had some... interesting affairs...). We hope you'll join us for this immersive experience presented by Yes! And... Collaborative Arts - Shadow Company. Saturday, April 13, 6:30 p.m., Germantown Mennonite Church, 21 W. Washington Lane.