Every Thursday, we round up Pay-Whats and other cheap seats at local theaters.  Just so’s your weekend is a little easier.

Before we start, remember the general rules: (A) Reservations for these? Not so much. (B) They’re offered on a space-available basis, so have a backup plan. (C) Click each theater name for details and contact info.

Now then: Not a bad week, Pay-What wise, and there’s even one bonus $10 option. Here’s what I know about:

• Bal Masque, Theater J. Hot property Richard Greenberg imagines the afterparty on the night of Truman Capote’s legendary Black-and-White Ball. Critics don’t see it until April 9. Pay-What preview tonight, Thursday, at 8:30 p.m. At the Aaron and Cecile Goldman Theater at the Washington DCJCC, 1529 16th St. NW.
• The Retreat from Moscow, Round House Theatre Company. William Nicholson‘s play has almost nothing to do with Napoleon’s disastrous winter campaign and everything to do with the winter of marital discontent. Critics don’t see it until Monday. Pay-What preview this Saturday afternoon at 3. At Round House Bethesda, 4545 East West Highway, Bethesda.
• The Rainmaker, Arena Stage. Love blooms in the dust. Bob Mondello says it’s sweet, for a stock romantic comedy. Closing this weekend. $10 seats available this Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 6 p.m.  At Arena’s Fichandler Stage, 6th and M Streets SW.
• Richard II, Washington Shakespeare Company. Weak king, with many “young favorites” (read: possible ’mo action). Critics don’t see it until April 19. Pay-What preview next Thursday, April 13 at 8 p.m. At Clark Street Playhouse, 601 S. Clark St., Arlington.