As terrible as they are, bad dates provide the best stories. That special kind of sick glee probably shines through in Round House Theatre’s new production of Becky Shaw, Gina Gionfriddo’s 2008 play about one of those spectacularly horrible encounters. When newlyweds Suzanna and Andrew arrange a date between their friends Max and Becky, it seems like nothing can really go wrong. Er, no. The date ends at a police station—and from there, things somehow continue to go downhill. Yes, it’s a bit dark and twisted, but your last bad date was probably a picnic in the park compared to this one.

The play runs May 29 to June 23 at Round House Theatre, 4545 East-West Highway, Bethesda. $10–$53. (240) 644-1100. roundhousetheatre.org.