Games people play

When his aging brother becomes blind, James “Sharky’’ Harkin returns home to care for him and to spend Christmas Eve with old friends Ivan and Nicky. In Conor McPherson’s Tony-nominated black comedy, “The Seafarer,’’ Sharky’s past is slowly uncovered during an all-night poker game accompanied by lots of booze and a connection with a Mr. Lockhart, who arrived at the party with Nicky. After tonight’s Merrimack Repertory Theatre show, stick around and talk with the directors and designers. Tonight at 7:30. (through Nov. 8). Tonight is a pay-what-you-can performance. Regular ticket prices are $26-$56. Merrimack Repertory Theatre, 50 E. Merrimack St., Lowell. 978-654-4678. www.merrimackrep.org