Another possibility might be the play “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder. It showcases life in a small New England town in 1901. It’s pretty short and an easy read. There is also a movie version made in 1940.
It’s been a while since I saw the play, so I can’t recall if there were any specific things that you might want to know ahead of time. (Be sure to pre-read it. Your library will probably have a copy.) The main theme is to live well, taking time to stop and enjoy the natural beauty and relationships with people around you.
It’s similar to Shakespeare at the Globe Theatre in that it used very minimal props and scenery.
Is there a play of any of the literature you are reading this year? You could read the script as well as the novel.
Is there a theatre nearby with a play worth seeing? Reading the play before seeing it performed may be a good choice.
We are planning to do that with Peter Pan this year.