Steel Magnolias

Steel Magnolias is based on a short story written by Robert Harling (later adapted into a play) following his sister’s death from diabetes.  It is set in the fictional town of Chinquapin, Louisiana in Truvy’s Beauty Parlour and its basis is the friendship among six women as they face high days and holidays, moments of great joy and sadness and all with quick wit, humour and warmth.

The set was excellent and had been well crafted faithfully recreating the beauty parlour, was split level and was complete with running water. There was great attention to detail with all the necessary equipment, magazines of the period and posters of hair styles and products. 

A great deal of trouble had gone into ensuring each character was appropriately dressed and made up immaculately. Wigs and costumes were excellent and changed as necessary for the passage of time and seasons. 

The lighting was effective and well controlled.  The dim lighting (used for the power cut) was well managed.

The essential characterisations of each cast member were well developed and each character maintained their persona throughout. Helen Lewis exuded warmth as Truvy.   Jo Long and Cat Brazier as M’Lynn and Shelby - real life mother and daughter -  their chemistry was clear throughout and made their performances particularly poignant especially in M’Lynn’s emotional outburst after Shelby’s death. Julie MacDonald was impressive, managing to shampoo hair while keeping the action running smoothly. Margot Konitzer and Gill Richardson kept the laughs coming as best friends Clairee and Ouiser, with their wise-cracks and banter.  The camaraderie between the six women was evident and memorable.    Thanks to the talented and hard-working team, led by Director, Carolyn Miles the design, direction and performances provided the audience with an evening of witty humour and,  at times, very moving entertainment.

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