By heft, age and national reputation, Pillsbury House Theatre may be considered a medium-size company, but its performances take place in a raked 96-seat auditorium. Taking in a play in such an intimate venue is similar to the experience of riding in a cockpit. It's not claustrophobic, but viewers can get the feeling of flying in the midst of poetic, socially-engaged productions that tackle everything from bullying, suicide and violence (see: the recently closed "Gidion's Knot") to memorable productions of Tony Kushner's "Angels in America," Cori Thomas' "Pa's Hat" and Sharon Bridgforth's "River See." 3501 Chicago Av. S., Mpls.; 612-825-0459; pillsburyhouseandtheatre.org