The Town Players of Newtown have opted to end their 2018 season quietly, with a play to be savored like a cup of sweet tea. Brian Friel’s Dancing at Lughnasa, under the subtle direction of Sherry Asch, in collaboration with dramaturg Julie Korogodon, is a lovely representation of family.

Five sisters reside in the Irish countryside, living on the meager earnings of Kate, a teacher (played by Rosemary Howard), and the even more paltry income of sisters Rose and Agnes (Amy Petrucci and Rachel Ames, respectively), who knit gloves for a small number of clients.

Another sister, Maggie (Amy Cabot), is the housekeeper and humorist who keeps the mood light. Her riddles and observations offer relief from the troubles they face together.

Maggie is the playful and ever-so-slightly bawdy jokester who teases as she attends to the activities of 7-year-old Michael, who is played through the memories of his older self, rendered by Miles Everett. Michael is the illegitimate son of the youngest and somewhat naïve sister, Chris.

As the siblings work and chat, argue and worry their way through their quiet days, their connection and commitment is obvious. Mr Friel has drawn five distinct female characters to tell the story of their lives. The dialogue is authentic in its simplicity and content. It resonates.

Returning from Africa to recover his bearings and health, the elder Father Jack (Phil Cook) boards with the sisters, whom he regales with his tales of 25 years abroad as Kate, in particular, sees to his health.

Gerry (Patrick Kelly), the erstwhile father to Michael and seducer of Chris, returns only to run away again, leaving the sisters and his son with just disappointment and the memory of his jocular nature.

Ms Asch has assembled a fine cast, with each member finding the essence of their character in order to distinguish their place in the family order.

Amy Cabot is wonderful as the light-hearted good time girl, Maggie. She is a natural in this role, granting her character an easy physicality and demeanor. She is a joy to watch, even in stillness.

As the soulful memory manipulator, Miles Everett gives a riveting performance each time he ambles onto the stage and leans against the wall. Declaring that some memories have “nothing to do with fact,” his Michael clings to them as the only possessions from his lonely youth. Mr Everett beautifully captures the poignancy of both the child and adult he plays.

Nick Kaye’s set design, complete with paintings of the gorgeous countryside to offset the austere and worn interior, add dimension and atmosphere.

A well-done production of a reflective period piece is a soothing night at the theater. Do catch this one.

Performances continue at The Little Theatre, 18 Orchard Hill Road, weekends through December 8. Curtain is Friday and Saturday at 8 pm; and Sundays, November 25 and December 2, at 2 pm.

There will also be a special Thursday performance on December 6 at 8 pm.

In addition, ticket holders are invited to remain following the Sunday, November 25 matinee, when the cast will participate in a talkback program.

Tickets are $22 for the evening performances, $18 for the matinees, and can be reserved by calling 203-270-9144 or visiting [naviga:u]newtownplayers.org[/naviga:u].