Six Reader critics fanned out across the Chicago Fringe Festival performance sites in Jefferson Park last weekend to see what we could see. The result is this selective guide to shows that will be continuing on through the fest’s second and final weekend. For times, tickets, and other info, go to chicagofringe.org. —Tony Adler
Betwixt Between
This show, about a young girl who’s initiated into a magical world, is enhanced by Nathan Fivecoate’s original score and Cindy Henkin’s marionette-like moves. Still, something’s missing: the story lacks the resonance we associate with well-told fairy tales. It doesn’t help that Henkin’s vocal performance lacks richness and variety. —Jack Helbig
Femme FATales
This plus-size burlesque troupe presents an array of joyful, sexy, body-positive striptease acts, though the bits in between could use some tightening. Dommenique Dumptrux brings the heat belting out “There Are Worse Things I Could Do” (Rizzo’s signature song in Grease) and Molotowcocktease gives good face as the Big Bad Wolf. —Marissa Oberlander
Men Will Be Boys
Scot Moore plays out the seven sexist ages of man, starting with a little boy getting in trouble for imitating his misogynistic dad and ending with a young father trying to change his ways for the sake of his baby daughter. The show is thoughtful fun despite a pat, moral-of-the-story ending. (TA)
Through 9/13: Thu-Sun, various times, various locationschicagofringe.org $10 per show plus $5 button, packages $36-$175 plus $5 button.