If you were in Margie Walsh’s shoes from David Lindsay-Abaire’s  “Good People,” how would you stay afloat in a sea of economic troubles? Asolo Repertory’s guest artist, Denise Cormier, does a phenomenal job portraying the quintessential American story of a woman who struggles to make peace with the growing gap between the rich and poor. If you are in the mood to see a 21st Century character unravel in front of your eyes with all of the flaws and quirks that make us human, head down to Sarasota to see Greg Leaming’s production of an exposé on America’s rigid social strata.

The ideas present in “Good People” are bound to resonate with audiences from all backgrounds. You quickly find yourself asking, “What would I do if I were Margie Walsh?” (a jobless mom who is desperate to make ends meet).  And while on the surface of the story we see Margie struggling through the hardships of the modern American, Cormier’s character also shines with the resilient spirit of the American worker. Adding to the material pressure Margie feels to find a job, her friends Jean and Dottie, played by Anne-Marie Cusson and Peggy Roeder, portray the mindset of the times.  That is, get rich or die trying. Humorous and honest performances by the cast engages audiences of all ages.

The play exudes a message in this exceptionally acted piece: passion keeps us moving, and it keeps the play itself moving. On the production end, the lighting and sound lacked in creativity. For example, loud music blasted at inopportune moments to signal changes in scenes. Sometimes the music would begin a few long seconds after the stage turned dark, leaving the audience confused. The set construction, too, appeared rushed and ill-fitted to the content of the scenes. For example, in the opening scene, when Margie is let go from her job at the Dollar General, the store sign looks as if it is in perfect condition in contrast to a impoverished Boston neighborhood. It gets confusing. Luckily, the performers keep the spirit of the play alive, drawing much of the attention away from the scenery.

“Good People” is relatable. We’ve all felt the need to climb the dollar tree. Whether you’re at the bottom, in the midst of the climb, or at the top, we all have a passion that drives us. And with some humor and grit, Margie Walsh shows us that we can make it through it all.

“Good People” is playing at the Asolo Repertory Theatre until March 1st.