THE PLAY: Four Southern ladies gather in their church basement to sort thru a pile of charitable donations. An unexpected visitor complicates their simple, rain-drenched afternoon.

 

THE PRODUCTION: The first act of this pleasant comedy introduces the women with saucy personality and clever banter. When Act Two attempts to add character insight and meaningful complications, the momentum slows. As in any show she graces, Catherine Shaffner dominates the stage with her comic presence, but it’s Debra Wagoner who provides the show’s most enjoyable laughs. Local playwright Bo Wilson has crafted a slight, yet delightful comedy, but the somewhat convoluted attempts to add dramatic depth drag down the mirth. Director Bruce Miller has boosted the shallowness with comic business, while Terrie Powers has designed a detailed basement that fits the bill.

 

THE POINT: While these ladies provide a lot to like, the second act dilutes the comic fun of the first.

 

(3 / 5)

 

A world premiere by Virginia Rep at Hanover Tavern thru 8/24