The Dio presents its third Jones Hope Wooten comedy The Savannah Sipping Society and it is a funny, well-acted summer treat. Jesse Jones, Nicholas Hope, and Jamie Wooten come from the world of tv sitcoms (The Golden Girls being their most notable) and it is no surprise that their lightweight stage comedies feel a bit like binge-watching a bunch of episodes of a new one that all have the same characters…the snooty one, the carefree one, the funny one, and the one with a dilemma.
Brenda Lane (dilemma), Alisa Mutchler Bauer (snooty), Kez Settle (funny) and Amy Morrisey (carefree) are all talented actors who find just the right level of comedy and humanity in their roles (left to right in photo). Most of the action plays out on the verandah of the snooty one’s Savannah home, and yes, most of the evening they are sipping beverages of the (mostly) alcoholic type.
Norma Polk’s lovely costumes often take a central role here (deliberately). Susan Craves directs with a steady pace that keeps the audience involved. Eileen Obradovich creates excellent props and has the unenviable task of washing all those glasses. Set, Lighting, and Sound Design are excellent by Matt Tomich.
There’s a bit less glue to hold this piece together than the previous outings at The Dio (The Dixie Swim Club and Always a Bridesmaid) but it’s a pleasant and fun show for a summer outing, with a yummy dinner to boot.
Recommended.
The Savannah Sipping Society continues through July 22nd at The Dio, 177 E Main Street, Pinckney, MI 48169. Reservations required: Diotheatre.com or 517-672-6009.
Mostly Musical Theatre 
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