Perfection. It’s something most of us strive for but rarely realize. But, does achieving perfection make us happier? That’s just one of the questions you’ll be asking yourself after seeing “The Clean House” at Barksdale Theatre.

Written by contemporary playwright Sara Ruhl, “Clean House” explores a variety of relationships. There are relationships between sisters, husbands and wives, employers and employees, and the departed and the living. Perhaps the most interesting relationship explored is the one we have with ourselves.

The play centers on a young Brazilian housekeeper, Matilde, whose job it is to clean the uncluttered, immaculate house of Lane and Charles, a husband and wife who are both successful doctors. Problem is -- Matilde is not only depressed but also hates cleaning. She would rather spend her time crafting the perfect joke, a trait she inherited from her parents who are now deceased.  

Enter Virginia, Lane’s sister who feels she hasn’t lived up to her sister’s expectations. She channels her depression into a passion for cleaning and creates a scheme to clean Lane’s house under the guise of Matilde. When life starts veering from perfect into absurdity, Lane, Virginia and Matilde begin a path of self-exploration that is both hilarious and saddening.

Director Steve Perigard shows wisdom in casting the play with solid performers and allowing them to explore the inner workings of their characters in some rather curious situations. The cast handles the unusual storyline with grace.

As Matilde, Bianca Bryan is energetic and entertaining. She gives a consistent performance, never wavering from her character’s Brazilian roots.

Kelly Kennedy plays the uptight Lane with panache. She effectively uses deadpan humor to deal with the absurd situations in her life. Her disbelief, disdain and utter frustration are well presented.

Jan Guarino is an absolute hoot as the neurotic Virginia. She is at her best when she completely gives in to her feelings and trashes her sister’s pristine living room.

As Charles, the cheating husband, John Moon skillfully delivers an over-the-top performance that gels well with his odd circumstances. Robin Arthur, who plays Ana, Charles’ new love, is equally entertaining.

The contemporary, powder white, ethereal set created by Ron Keller is an absolute winner. It sets the stage for the action and the entire premise of the play. Costume designer Sue Griffin is also to be commended for costumes that detail the characters as well as their lines.

Performances in “The Clean House” are well-crafted while the play seems to journey into some far-fetched situations. There are scenes that are hilarious; scenes that are bizarre; scenes that make you feel good; and scenes that leave you feeling a pang of sadness. A bit imperfect, just like life can be at times.

“The Clean House” runs through Nov. 2 at Barksdale Theatre. Single tickets are $38 / $35 with Ukrop’s Valued Customer Card and are available at Barksdale Theatre’s box office at 282-2620 or at www.barksdalerichmond.org.