-
ENID, OK - Gaslight brings back a timeless classic with Robert Harling’s “Steel Magnolias” which opens March 16. Director Brice Donaldson and Asst. Director Charlet Ringwald have assembled a stellar cast of for this estrogen-driven Southern comfort dramedy, set in Truvy’s Beauty Salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana. Shop owner Truvy (Catina Sundvall) dispenses equal parts hair care, advice, and maxims--“There is no such thing as natural beauty”-- to her new assistant Annelle, played by Gaslight newcomer Mary Porter who evolves from a nervous, gun-shy young woman who’s not sure if she’s married or not to a born-again Christian. Anybody who’s anybody gets their hair done at Truvy’s, including feisty mayor’s widow Clairee (Donna Rogers) and rich curmudgeon Ouiser—“I’m not crazy; I’ve just been in a very bad mood for 40 years” hilariously played by Ginny Shipley. Clairee and Ouiser come in each week for a wash and set, and stay to dish and offer astute observations about life and love.
-
The focus of the play revolves around local gossip, recipe exchanges and Shelby. Shelby (Angela Lyon) is an endearing, headstrong young women whose diabetes and disappointing marriage lead to personal setbacks, medical complications and tough love doled out by her ever-vigilant but adoring mother, M’Lynn (Christianne Chase).
-
“Steel Magnolias” has been beloved by theatre-goers since its off-Broadway debut in 1987. Harling also wrote the screenplay for the star-studded 1989 movie. The play is a tribute to his sister Susan, on whom the character of Shelby is based. The main differences between the film and the play are that the action of the play takes place entirely in Truvy's beauty salon, and that none of the male characters ever appear — they are only mentioned in dialogue. The strict focus on the relationships between the women is a strength of the play; the beauty shop is a safe haven where they laugh, cry, and support each other through good times and bad.
-
Performance dates are March 16-18 and 22-24. Tickets are available online at gaslighttheatre.org, or by calling the Box Office at 234-2307. Gaslight offers discounts for students, military, and groups of 10 or more.
-
-
-
-
-
-
