Steel Magnolias

I was so pleased that I did not know anything about this play, having never watched the film version. I anticipated an evening of sombre and maudlin dialogue reflecting on the loss of a loved one. How wrong could I be. This was a story of love, loyalty, passion, friendship and a great deal of fun. It was hilarious and beautifully depicted by a cast of six strong females, who I want to be my friend.

However, the set alone was a highlight of the performance. The stage looked enormous having every inch filled with everything you would expect to see in an 80’s style American Beauty Parlour. The matching bucket chairs, which the cast used so well in an almost orchestrated way to make the most of the space, were beautiful. The two hair dryers, the two hairdresser chairs strategically placed facing the audience, the desk, and the trollies that were moved and used so well, made it feel real. As did the back projection of birds flying across the skyline throughout, ingenious! The gun blasts in the opening scene were authentic too and the flinching of the cast perfectly timed.

The clever direction of getting the cast to talk into the imaginary mirrors was brilliant and it really did look as if they could see each other’s reflection when they were speaking, and which was so effective.

My hat is well and truly off to the ladies for their Southern American accents, they were all authentic and seemed natural. But what impressed me the most was the quick scene changes. Gosh, were they quick and the stage crew of 3, who swept in to change the set very slightly but effectively, did so at lightning speed, which made the costume changes even more impressive. They must have had their clothes ripped off their backs and replaced in double quick time.

Zoe Hutton played Annelle and was an absolute joy to watch. Her mannerisms, facial expressions and general ditziness was hilarious and the warmth that she shared with her fellow actors was palpable.

Hilary Benoit was Truvy, the salon owner with a heart of gold. I was fascinated watching her perform, never missing a beat and did a complete, and non-too shabby, up style of Shelby’s hair at the same time. I don’t know how she did it! Her movements were so fluid and natural, and her delivery faultless.

Venia Freeman was Clairee, and her characterisation was mesmerising. Her relationship with Ouiser played by Mary Fielding was fabulous, they both brought a different dimension to the play with their relaxed and almost world-weary portrayal of ladies of a certain age who have lived. The comedy element between them was warm and genuine. I now know why the play is called Steel Magnolias…

Jess Jones played Shelby with such passion in a truly believable way. Her wanting to be ‘normal’ and have what everyone else had, despite her health problems, came over so well. I really believed in her and could understand her desire to live her life her way as she played the role with so much emotion.

Deb West was M’Lynn, Shelby’s mother who tries to influence her daughter in many ways. Her disapproval of Shelby’s pregnancy masked her fear for the danger that her life might be in. Her selfless gift was made light of and her stoicism after Shelby’s death was used as an armour, but her final account of Shelby’s death was incredibly emotional. You could have heard a pin drop, if it had not been for the rustle of tissues to mop the tears of the audience. Although the focus was on M’Lynn, all six ladies were reacting in the sincerest way. It really was a relief Clairee grabbed Ouiser to lighten the mood.

This was an absolute pleasure to watch. Six strong ladies being played by six talented performers. Well done LADS and thank you for inviting me.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.