Steel Magnolias was written as a play by Robert Harling in the 80s,based in his homestate of Louisiana with characters based on his mother and sister. By 1989 it became a blockbuster film starring Dolly Parton, Sally Field and Julia Roberts. Now Trafalgar Theatre Productions presents the show for its 2023 UK and Ireland tour.
Directed by Anthony Banks, the play is centred around a group of six women, who regularly gather in Truvy’s beauty salon to discuss life, love and other problems. While all the ladies have their share of struggles, the focus is largely on Shelby (Diana Vickers) who pushes through life experiences of marriage and baby in the face of chronic illness. Vickers is brilliantly lively, stubbon in her determination to experience life and obstinate against her mother M’Lynn’s constant concern.
Mostly known for her time in Call the Midwife, Laura Main stands out as M’Lynn, a mother who can rightfully blame her daughter for any greys and breaks the audience’s heart with her grief.
Truvy is the glue of the salon, played by a very Dolly Parton-esque Lucy Speed, thanks to Richard Mawbey’s remarkable wig work and Speed’s ability to convey both warmth and humour within a breath of each other, getting many laughs from her quick one-liners.
There’s a real sense of camaraderie and community between the cast which is rounded off by Caroline Harker as Clairee Belcher, Elizabeth Ayodele as Annelle Dupuy, and Harriet Thorpe as Ouiser Boudreaux (although Claire Carpenter played this role on press night).
While some of the southern drawls veer off course at times, the four scene structure offers snapshots across the few years and keeps the pace snappy.
The set, designed by Laura Hopkins, which doesn’t fill the stage offers an insight into the intimate setting of the salon, this exclusively feminine place where you’re safe to share your troubles.
In a show that celebrates female friendship, it’s certainly going to make you appreciate yours.
Steel Magnolias is at Leicester’s Curve theatre until 8th April 2023, purchase tickets here https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/steel-magnolias/
Katie Reviews 