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Desperate, unemployed, depressed men — their factory closes, jobs are scarce, and money is short. "The Full Monty" is a story for our times and the story of every man.

Motivated by varying family crisis, six men bond over a plot to increase their income, regain their sense of purpose and once again become the bread winners — with a twist. Way Off Broadway has pulled yet another hat trick with a musical comedy that is strikingly relevant without indulging in self pity.

Warning to those with tender sensibilities — this is an adult show and a rollicking good time about some normal Joes becoming strippers. Expect a modicum of language and a heavy dose of innuendo.

The musical's plot begins in Buffalo, NY, after the closing of a local plant. A desperate group of co-workers unite to creatively address their financial woes. Buffalo has recently had a visit from Chippendales of Vegas fame. Buddies Dave (Jonny Kigin) and Jerry (Jordon Stocksdale) hatch a plot to form their own troupe of exotic dancers for a one-night-only show and recruit four of their former co-workers.

Horse (Darnell Morris) is invited to join the group because he can boogie down. Harold, the gang's former boss (Bill Kiska), moonlights as a ballroom dance instructor and tries to teach this uncoordinated bunch a few smooth moves. Pretty boy Malcolm (Shawn Nakia) is the hot body. Finally, Ethan (Gary Bernard DiNardo) is added as the last member of the troupe for his hidden talents — and during the casting call gives the audience its first inkling of what is to follow in the bawdy second act.

A special nod goes out to the youngest members of the cast —actors Ryan Patrick Kane and Noah W. Ostrowski —who alternately portray Jerry's son, Nathan. Nathan's custody status provides Jerry's motivation and drives much of the plot.

Many are familiar with the movie version of "The Full Monty," which was set in England. While music has been added, the tale remains true to the original script, enhancing themes of desperation, male bonding and love of family.

David Yazbek wrote both the lyrics and music for the show receiving critical acclaim and Tony nominations in 2002. (Way Off Broadway will also produce his "Dirty Rotten Scoundrels" come fall).

The cast carries out the musical gymnastics of the show with limber voices and sweet harmonies. The crowd pleasing "You're a Man" offers advice for the "beer drinking, boot wearing" men and Stocksdale in a falsetto and Kigin in tenor have a great blend.

The most poignant song, "You Walk with Me" — Malcom's homage to his mother — is delivered with exquisite tenderness by Nakia, with DiNardo lending vocal support.

Pure comedy reigns in "You Rule my World," sung by Kigin — a love song to his beer belly — and the body part that makes him doubt his sex appeal.

The guys in the show are supported by a cast of women who lend their opinions musically in the group number "It's a Woman's World." As Harold's wife, Vicki, Andrea Wildason paints a portrait of love in "Life with Harold."

Piano player extraordinaire and honorary house mother to the motley crew, Jeanette (Claudia Patterson) charms the audience in the self titled "Jeanette's Showbiz Number," while Taylor Whidden and Wildason reprise "You Rule my World' at the end of the second act.

Director Susan Thornton promised me a show that "would make the audience laugh, get them to recognize personality traits of guys they know and find moments to be heartwarming and touching."

"The Full Monty" delivers.

For tickets and showtimes, call 301-662-6600. Visit www.wayoffbroadway.com.

Correction: The original version of this story misidentified the piano player and the actress playing her. Jeanette is played by Claudia Patterson.