THE PLAY: This is a musical version of the popular film about a gifted pie maker coping with a unhappy marriage. Luckily, she has good friends for support.

 

THE PRODUCTION: Although this show is full of pleasant songs, it’s the characters that make it enjoyable. While Christine Dwyer nicely handles the lead, it’s the supporting roles that provide the comic chops. As the doctor, Steven Good is delightfully goofy and her fellow waitresses (Maiesha McQueen & Jessie Shelton) mine every opportunity for laughs. Although some of the words got lost in the mix, the musical numbers are enjoyable, boosted by a solid onstage band. “Never Ever Getting Rid of Me” gives Jeremy Morse a chance to lead the hilarious highlight of the night (while channeling a bit of Leslie Jordan). Act 2 starts with rambunctious fun, but dips into drama before it starts to lag with too many songs. The tech elements are all effective. NOTE: To ease your culinary curiosity, they sell small “pies in a jar” in the lobby. Running time: 2:35

 

THE POINT: A winsome treat with pleasant music and genuinely amusing glee.

 

(4 / 5)

 

A Broadway in Richmond production at the Altria Theatre thru 2/17