Globe NorthWest best bets
THEATER
Arlington: "Much Ado About Nothing" is hardly that, what with all the vicissitudes of love, secret identities, foiled plots, and scandals packed into Shakespeare's longest-running comedy. The New England Shakespeare Company will perform the 410-year-old play July 27, 5 p.m., at Menotomy Rocks Park on Jason Street. Bring chairs or blankets - picnics are welcome. Free. acarts.org, 781-648-6220.
HISTORY
Bedford: Born in Boxford in 1792, Rufus Porter was an inventor, editor, and publisher. But the itinerant artist is perhaps best known for his mural landscapes, which he painted in homes and taverns throughout New England, one of which may be seen in the parlor of the 1713 Job Lane Farm Museum, 295 North Road. One of the oldest houses and barns in Bedford, the museum will be open for tours this coming Sunday, and every second and fourth Sunday, from 2-4 p.m. $2; $5 per family. 781-275-8794.
COMEDY
Hudson, N.H.: Known for his PG-13 routines, Wilmington comedian Steve Bjork will cross the line on July 26. OK, he's crossing the state line for comedy night at King's Court, 222 Central St. Tickets for the 8 p.m. show are $15. Show and dinner, 6 p.m. Italian buffet, $25. scampscomedy.com, 603-821-5100.
GALLERIES
Lexington: The many members of the many guilds of the Lexington Arts and Crafts Society, 130 Waltham St., have combined their talents for their Artisans' Market. The opening day tent sale on Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., includes children's art activities and a chance to chat with the artists. The sale continues Monday through Aug. 24 in Parson's Gallery. Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday noon-4 p.m. Closed July 27. Free. 781-862-9696.
MUSIC
Lexington: The summer concert series on the lawn of the Lexington Visitors Center, 1875 Massachusetts Ave., has all the bases covered. Bass guitars, that is. 6:30-8:30 p.m. July 25, Backburner plays some of the great classics of rock and roll: "Chain of Fools," "Mustang Sally," "The Stroll," and "In My Life." Free. 781-862-2480.
NorthWest Calendar and Best Bets listings should be sent, three weeks in advance, to Libbie Payne at epayne@globe.com.
