It’s the end of the world as we know it, and Charlie isn’t feeling so fine. She’s the protagonist of the world premiere musical Soon, which takes place during a looming apocalypse, complete with the world’s hottest summer on record and a dwindling water supply. Twentysomething Charlie finds refuge in her apartment with all the essentials: a jar of peanut butter, the warm comfort of Wolf Blitzer on the television, and her devoted pet fish, Hershel. Meanwhile, Charlie’s mother, roommate, and on-again, off-again boyfriend attempt to draw her out into the world while it still exists. A musical about the end of days might seem like a downer, but area native and Broadway vet Nick Blaemire’s sharp, smart script makes for an entertaining and lively show. Under the skillful direction of Signature Theatre’s Matthew Gardiner, Soon offers a fresh urgency that merits a trip outside your apartment. That jar of peanut butter will be waiting when you return. The musical runs March 10 through April 2 at Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Ave., Arlington. $39–$70. (703) 820-9771. signature-theatre.org.