Fourth of July at the beach house willed to Sally by her younger brother, David, recently dead from AIDS. Sam's sister Chloe and her husband John (Angie Radosh and Gordon McConnell) are along for the ride.

All four of the troubled weekenders sputter and fight, offering revelatory asides about their secret desires.

The Dramaworks production is meticulous with a set showing the back of a weathered beach house and lighting that often dramatizes the couples' confessional asides. The acting is skilled and earnest, especially from the women, because McNally's play gives Gardner and Radosh a lot to work with.

Lips Together, Teeth Apart is about finding sanctuary with fellow humans in a harsh world.