The acclaimed 2008 season continues at the Drayton Festival Theatre with one of the best-loved plays of all time: Robert Harling’s award-winning bittersweet comedy, Steel Magnolias, runs for three weeks beginning Aug. 12.
Described as “the funniest play to ever make you cry,” Steel Magnolias explores the dynamics of life, love, and laughter in a small-town Louisiana beauty parlour as six southern belles learn to embrace the future – and all of its uncertainties. As rich in tears as in laughter, in wisdom as in witticisms, their weekly sisterhood gives them safe harbour from the turbulent seas of life.
“Steel Magnolias is an enduring favourite of theatregoers everywhere,” said artistic director Alex Mustakas. “It poignantly sheds light the resilience of the human spirit, while simultaneously keeps us laughing all the way along.”
The production is directed by Rona Waddington, who thrilled audiences earlier this season with her presentation of the classic whodunit, The Mousetrap, at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse, followed by the hilarious musical comedy A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, now on stage at the Drayton Festival Theatre.
Under Waddington’s astute direction, Steel Magnolias stars Susan Greenfield as brassy salon owner Truvy, Joan Gregson as eccentric millionaire Clairee, Linda Goranson as curmudgeonly Ouiser, Jackie Mustakas as blushing bride Shelby, Kate Southwell as quirky salon assistant Annelle, and Lynn Vogt as Shelby’s courageous mother M’Lynn.
Steel Magnolias opened off-Broadway in 1987 to sold-out audiences and strong reviews. Subsequent national tours, numerous regional productions and an Academy award-nominated film followed, all attesting to the wide appeal and durability of this emerging classic.
Charming, witty, and delightfully entertaining, Steel Magnolias is a touching comedy that reminds all of us that life is a precious gift to celebrate.
“Steel Magnolias is going to be one of the sure-fire hits of the season,” said Mustakas. “It’s humorous and touching, and demonstrates that the bonds of friendship are something that should be celebrated and embraced.”
Steel Magnolias plays eight shows a week, Aug. 12 through 30. Tickets can be ordered by calling the Drayton Festival theatre Box Office at (519) 638-5555 or toll free at 1-888-449-4463. Visit www.draytonfestivaltheatre.com for more information.
