A bold new production of “Wuthering Heights” is showing now through Jan. 1 at Berkeley Repertory Theatre. Adapted by Emma Rice and produced by Rice’s Wise Children, National Theatre, Bristol Old Vic and York Theatre Royal in association with Berkeley Rep, this wildly imaginative story comes together under Rice’s uniquely theatrical direction.

The reimagined version of Emily Brontë’s gothic tale is filled with music, dance, passion and a touch of irreverence as the revenge tragedy unfolds. Here Heathcliff, a poor child from the Liverpool docks, is adopted by the Earnshaws and taken to live at Wuthering Heights. A fierce love develops between Heathcliff and Catherine Earnshaw, but a brutal chain of events begins when the two are forced apart.

Liam Tamne is Heathcliff and Leah Brotherhead is Catherine with choreography by Etta Murfitt and scenic and costume design by Vicki Mortimer. For tickets to this epic saga, call 510-647-2949 or go online to berkeleyrep.org. The theater is at 2025 Addison St. in Berkeley.

Also in Berkeley: The anarchy of childhood, not to mention narcissistic adults, fills Berkeley Playhouse’s beautiful Julia Morgan Theater as its exuberant production of “Matilda, the Musical” continues through Dec. 23. Based on Roald Dahl’s story of a brilliant young girl mistreated by her feckless parents and bullying headmistress, the show pulsates with energy as the large, talented cast sings and dances its heart out.

While the 16-person adult cast performs every show, the 12 younger performers are double-cast, and alternate performances during the eight-week run that began Nov. 4. I happened to catch the Miracle Cast (named for the first number in the show) featuring the impressive Miranda Klein as Matilda. While the many high-energy numbers certainly showcase her many talents, I especially like Klein’s duets with Chanel Tilghman, who plays Matilda’s teacher Miss Honey, which allow both performers to demonstrate their notable vocal skills.

A superb Gregory Lynch portrays the slightly sadistic headmistress Miss Trunchbull, who adds subtle touches to create a more complex characterization of the over-the-top headmistress. Mark Robinson and Mary Kalita brought their own considerable talents to Matilda’s parents with the warm-hearted Jordan Battle portraying the librarian, Miss Phelps.

Kudos to director/choreographer Dane Paul Andres and co-choreographer Cat Reyes. They not only deliver a lively, fast-paced production with clever dance routines, but they also managed rehearsals with two casts of 12 youngsters each plus the 16 adults. I can only imagine the logistics involved.

The action plays out on Martin Flynn’s multilevel, versatile set beautifully enhanced with Aiden Reyes lighting design. For tickets or more details, go to https://tickets.berkeleyplayhouse.org/online.

Orinda: I hope you get a chance to see the Orinda Theatre’s showing of “Jesus Christ Superstar” at 7 p.m. Wednesday as part of the film’s 50th anniversary tour. Not only is this a fabulous opportunity to see this bold, epic production of the Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Webber rock opera, but also a chance to talk with actor Ted Neeley, who plays Jesus. Hopefully, there will be an encore showing of this powerful film (see orindamovies.com/2813/events for details). Fortunately for me, I was able to discuss the musical recently with the charismatic star.

“Since the first performance on Broadway in the early ’70s, being in this show has been magical,” said Neeley. “Then Norman Jewison, our brilliant director, took this project to new heights in 1973. My life literally changed during the making of ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ on location in Israel. I met my future wife on the set, and the adoration the fans have with this film has me talking about it with you 50 years later.”

Neeley said Jewison’s guidance in the film inspired his subsequent live performances of the role.

“He took the concept of the piece and created a screenplay that struck a chord in the hearts of viewers worldwide. I can’t and won’t stop thanking Norman Jewison for what he did for me. Make no mistake, our 50th anniversary screening tour is a tribute to the vision and hard work of this legendary Hollywood director,” Neeley said.

Alameda: The dynamic duo of Margaret Beldon and Julia Etzel returns to the Altarena Playhouse with “Variety Show.” The two performers blended their lovely voices beautifully in productions of “Always, Patsy Cline” and “The Honky Tonk Angels” and have now put together an evening of song, dressing-room humor and a bit of mayhem. “Variety Show” runs Dec. 9-18.

Also, just in time for the holidays, the Altarena presents Brian Copeland’s “The Jewelry Box.” The heartwarming memoir follows a 6-year-old Copeland as he collects bottles and applies for jobs to earn the money to purchase a coveted Christmas present for his mom — a jewelry box.

I’ve seen this show in holidays past, and it’s remarkable what one talented actor/playwright can do to not only bring to life 1970s Oakland but to also awaken the spirit of giving and love. “The Jewelry Box” will play Dec. 15 at 8 p.m.

Both shows will take place in the Altarena Playhouse at 1409 High St. in Alameda. Call 510-253-1553 or visit altarena.org for tickets and more information.

Sally Hogarty can be reached at sallyhogarty@gmail.com. Read more of her reviews online at eastbaytimes.com/author/sally-hogarty.