There’s still a little time left to pack a picnic, grab a blanket, and set up camp for a night of theater under the stars. Park yourself on the banks of the Charles for one or both — of this summer’s offerings at the Publick Theatre (Christian Herter Park, 1175A Soldiers Field Road, Brighton, 617.454.1444). Noel Coward’s Hay Fever (through September 14) and Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull (September 7) are being performed in repertory. Everyone’s family is dysfunctional, but the Brits have stiff upper lips and the Russians have gloomy outlooks. Both plays are set on isolated country estates; each explores what happens when families have no choice but to deal with each other. Check out the dramatic cultural differences and be grateful you’re not related. Call 617.454.1444 or visit www.publicktheatre.com for tickets ($27 to $32; $50 to $60 for two-show season pass).  

raising the bar

There’s more to the North End bar scene than Italian mainstays like Peronis and Negronis, we swear. Need proof? Take a peek at the revamped drink list at Artú (6 Prince Street, Boston, 617.742.4336). We’re thinking someone had boys on the brain this summer, because the cocktails here now include the Bad Boy ($9/on rocks; $12/martini), a mixture of Ciroc vodka, white grape juice, and a splash of ginger ale; the Little Prince ($11/$14), with Hanger One Mandarin Blossom, Patrón Citrónge, and lime and blood-orange juices; and the X-Boyfriend ($9/$12), a combination of Ketel One vodka, X-Rated Fusion Liqueur, soda, and a bit of pineapple juice. Sip a Bad Boy with some good friends, and you’re sure to have a very interesting evening.