THE BEST SEX OF THE XX CENTURY SALE A play set during an auction of memorabilia from the past 100 years with songs and stories illustrating how the items relate to our nation’s sexual development. Pictured are actors Timothy Ryan Olson, left, and Franca Vercelloni. Jan. 7 – Jan. 29, Fridays & Saturdays at 10:30pm. Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave. $15. 212-352-3101.

“SHYLOCK” — a one-man show A play reflecting the “love and understanding of Shakespeare’s genius” by weaving excerpts of “The Merchant of Venice” with the “perceptual legacy of anti-Semitism.” Gareth Armstrong performs. Opens Sun, Jan. 30 at 7pm. Continues thru March 13. Wed. – Fri. at 8pm; Sat. at 3 & 8pm; and Sun. at 3 & 7pm. The Perry Street Theatre, 31 Perry St. $55. 212-868-4444.