This searing drama chronicles the public and private indifference to the AIDS plague and one man’s fight to awaken the world. The Normal Heart follows gay activist Ned Weeks, who is enraged at the apathy of both public officials and the gay community. In his quest to awaken the world to this devastating disease, he confronts the personal toll of it when his lover dies from AIDS. Theatre of the Republic, 331 Main St. Visit website for dates and times. $20. (843) 488-0821, www.theatreoftherepublic.com