Machine Theatre is taking its ThomThom (if that bird won't sing) to the stage of Duke Energy Theatre from July 8-17. The musical, which you may have heard about from trial readings and runs around town, is derived from the imagination of Matt Cosper and directed by Barney Baggett with songs composed by Jon Lindsay. This black comedy follows two lost souls trying to find their way through a dark forest that's full of scariness -- take, for instance, the crazed gang of idiotic murderous wizards -- and adventure. $15. July 8-10, 8 p.m.; July 15-17, 8 p.m. Duke Energy Theatre, 345 N. College St. 704-372-1000. www.blumenthalcenter.org.