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Steel Magnolias

Author: Kevin Proctor

Information

Date
16th November 2012
Society
Bridgewater Players
Venue
Thelwall Parish Hall
Type of Production
Drama
Director
Ian Hornby

This play by Robert Harling was written in the 1980’s following the tragic death of his diabetic sister. It’s no wonder that the depth of feelings revealed touches the soul as it’s undoubtedly a liberating and clever piece of writing. Although perhaps better known from the film, the stage production is more intimate, set entirely in the beauty parlour.

A dream for some directors, a nightmare for others; due to the location of the piece it offers little scope, once the ladies are seated to be made beautiful, they naturally have to stay still for a considerable length of time. You can, however, substitute for this by really going to town with the genre of the piece through the 80’s American fashion and not forgetting bold and lavish décor for the parlour set. For me, the piece would’ve benefited from more of the retro style and panache being injected into it. The set and costumes didn’t tell me when the play was set, an opportunity for some fun research and exploitation of a unique and gaudy era.

The cast of six women share their fears, loves, hates, aspirations and grief, demonstrating the true power of sisterhood. In Act 2, the actresses relaxed into their roles and appeared less tense, this really helped the comedy one liners carry. The biggest challenge these ladies faced was the southern American accent, for the majority of the time it was clear the attention was on remembering lines and getting the accent right (which is of course vital) but as a result, characterisation and mind-sets seemed to take a backseat which did have an effect on the relationship chemistry and emotional delivery making it a little difficult for an audience to connect.  

The strongest performance of the piece, for me, was Norma Dransfield as Ouiser, she played the hot-headed but ingeniously hilarious local grumble with coup.

Kelly Jane Sargeant played the shy, salon assistant Annelle with believability and intrigue, I particularly liked how she delivered her words of support to M’lynn in the final scene, Kelly is one to watch!

Congratulations must go to Director, Ian Hornby, as the message of the piece was clear; there is something within every woman that makes her incredibly strong and courageous. This play suggests it is a layer of steel. It is this steel that gives women the strength to pick themselves up and wipe away the tears. It is the ability to laugh away the tears that Steel Magnolias truly celebrates.

Each character has a story to tell and relies on the support and love of her friends to see her through. These women become sisters, developing a bond stronger than steel.

Congratulations Bridgewater Players and thank you for your hospitality!

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