[Ed. Note: This is the third in a series of TM review roundups of shows in the seventh annual New York Musical Theatre Festival.]

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David Hein and Irene Sankoff's My Mother's Lesbian Jewish Wiccan Wedding, at the TBG Theatre, is much more sincere than its title implies. The heartwarming one-act musical recounts Hein's parents' divorce and his mother's subsequent lesbian reawakening.

We see this unfold through the first few songs as his mom, Claire (Liz Larsen), moves from Nebraska to Canada and meets Jane (Ann Harada) while singing in a folk choir. This connection unfolds organically with small gestures and quick, spontaneous smiles, and soon the two women are an item.

Hein narrates the story, commenting on his younger self (played by Lev Pakman) during pivotal moments such as when he first learns of his Mom's new life. It doesn't bother him, which surprises Claire a little, and he simply asks, "can I play Nintendo now?" This phrase punctuates several more pivotal scenes as Jane and Claire's relationship develops. It's a refreshing approach to the hot-button topic and brings out the everyday element in a way that isn't overly sentimental while juxtaposing it with political protests and the real life impact of the impending legalization of gay marriage on Jane, Claire, and their friends.

If there's one glaring flaw here it's that Harada's comic talents aren't put to much use -- despite playing a witch. In "Wiccan 101," Jane explains that while she has a broom and other witch accessories, her religion isn't that different from others.

Director Stafford Arima makes the most of the space with fluid staging and lively pacing, but the show would benefit from letting it's wacky side run a little more wild. One of the highlights, "Don't Take Your Moms," illustrates the pitfalls David encounters when he ends up at Hooters with his Moms and his new girlfriend. Christina Decicco shines as their ditsy but busty waitress, and the scene reminds us how much untapped hilarity lurks just under the surface.

-- Chris Kompanek