Savoring a selection of Rep nuggets

No fewer than five healthy-looking, full-bodied pine trees stand like sentinels, three of them at the back of the stage, positioned in such a way that they resemble serving butlers stationed behind chairs, which will soon be occupied by especially significant dinner guests.
When the five-actor cast files onstage and settles into place, behind music stands ranged across the stage, wearing bright red sweaters, the space, with its raked floor of large, immaculate black-and-white checkerboard squares, suddenly becomes somewhat like a particularly appealing Christmas card having sprung to vibrant life.