Steel Magnolias

Set on a huge stage this play lost its intimacy somewhat and therefore the closeness of the characters were a little astray from the plot at times. I just felt there were details missing from the saloon in terms of materialistic bits and pieces towels for one, and for an all-woman show you alone should have picked up on these and maybe advise the props team bearing in mind the amount of time you laddies spend in the hairdressers these days !!!. The overall casting was excellent with a good mixture of characters strong in every aspect. Whilst I appreciate it’s difficult to actually wash hair on stage a little more attention to the act of hairdressing seemed to be missing as opposed to the teasing of the hair that was going on teetering on being overdone, that said the diction of all concerned was very good with good accents. Truvey (Sara Worton) held the action together lovely personality showing strong characterisation and interaction, showing all aspects of the role quite a believable performance. Annelle (Danielle Segar) showed a really convincing warm side to this role quite emotional at times. Clairee (Anita Warburton) for me a truly believable character good diction moving the pace along throughout showing more than a few mood swings and friend to all superb performance. M’Lynn (Jan Orriland) emotionally charged role convincing throughout some of the diction could have been a little clearer but that was due to the accent in parts but overall a warm hearted performance always in the knowledge her daughter was going to do exactly as she wanted, a little jaded and loss of emotion in the final scenes. Ouiser (Marilyn Baxter) a remarkable actress with a true diversity of character ability shown during this role comedy in abundance and fiery when needed wonderful performance. Shelby (Ria Hughes) Lovely role but a little of the mother daughter relationship seemed to be lost in the action partly I believe to the strong and stubborn side of the character, beautiful smile and acting ability. The overall concept of the play was well received by an appreciative audience.

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