This normality diminishes a couple of segments. The show-ending scene titled "In the Park" with Donna Coghill and Fernando Rivadeniera playing old friends just being old friends borders on Hallmark-greetings-style preciousness. But this is more than made up for by the evening's best vignettes. In the sidesplitting "Goddess," workaholic Ray (Matt Beyer) sees a vision of a goddess (Maggie Roop) that compels him to break free from his suit-and-tie life. This happens at a hilariously inopportune time for his business and life partner, Todd (Matt Shofner).
The moving "In My Body" features Rivadeniera as a priest and Shofner as a New Age spiritualist trying to bridge the massive gap between them. Their journey to love is quietly and believably depicted, punctuated by a soaring and inspirational title song. Even the show's more mundane plotlines are buoyed by the simply melodic songs crafted by co-playwrights Dan Martin and Michael Biello.
Director Ted Boelt has assembled a stellar cast, with Shofner finding opportunities to shine the brightest. With its straightforward stories, "Breathe" honors the extraordinary in the ordinary, offering a refreshing and uplifting take not just on gay and lesbian life, but on life in general. David Timberline
"Breathe" plays at Fielden's Cabaret Theatre, 2033 W. Broad St., through Feb. 26. Tickets cost $14-$16. Call 346-8113.