Steel Magnolias

Robert Harling

Born in 1951 in Dothan, Alabama, Robert Harling moved to New York City to become an actor, auditioning for bit parts in plays and commercials while working as a ticket seller for Broadway shows.

In 1985, Harling’s sister, Susan, died from diabetic complications after the birth of her son and the failure of a family member’s donated kidney. A writer friend encouraged Harling to write it all down to help him come to terms with his feelings. He did, as a short story for his nephew and to better understand his deceased sister. Within ten days, the short story evolved into a play called Steel Magnolias.

The play was produced off-Broadway in 1987 to great acclaim and subsequently translated into seventeen languages. In 1989, the film version of Steel Magnolias released, starring Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Shirley MacLaine, Daryl Hannah, Olympia Dukakis, and Julia Roberts. Harling himself played the role of the minister.

You’ve likely seen either the Oscar-winning movie or the stage version of this story. It explores many themes—the friendships of women, a mother’s love and sacrifice, and more.

The Prairie Players is staging Steel Magnolias this month at the William Glesby Centre. First-time director, Pam Stinson, is enjoying the challenge of bringing the Prairie Players’ first post-Covid production to the stage. Originally set for spring of 2020, the play is finally going ahead with a mostly new, all-female cast. They’re even taking the show on the road and performing in Onanole at the end of November.

Deanne McLeod, a big Dolly Parton fan, is thrilled to portray Truvy. She says, “We intend to give a performance like no other. Prepare to be thoroughly entertained!”

Meghan Carter, new to Prairie Players, portrays Annelle. She says, “I’m really glad I took the leap because I’m enjoying the whole process, from going to rehearsals, researching the setting of the play, and picking out costumes. What I appreciate most about my role is the change Annelle undergoes in that her self-confidence evolves as the plot progresses.”

Laurel Giesbrecht has been with Prairie Players since 2012, last seen in Mary Poppins. “The tight timeline has made this one intense, but Pam is so encouraging,” she says. “I play Clairee Belcher and I’m having an absolute blast with her big heart and sassy comments.”

Alanna Downey plays Shelby. Originally from Wawanesa, this is Alanna’s first production with the Prairie Players since her move here five years ago.

After the last few years of coping with the impact of Covid, Jennifer Lomonico says she felt getting involved with Prairie Players would help with re-establishing connection with others and doing something creative and inspiring. “It’s been a wonderful experience. We have a lot of laughs and a great group of people. I play M’Lynn, who has a mix of funny and serious moments. I was drawn to the role because of M’Lynn’s strength, humor, and emotional vulnerability.”

Long-time Players member Danica Turcotte will portray Ouiser (Weezer), often the most loved character of all.

Stinson says, “I especially wanted to direct Steel Magnolias, the first play I ever saw of Prairie Players back in the nineties at Southport. The experience has been very positive. I have a vision and the cast is making it come true! It’s truly great to be back at the theater after three years. I believe in being active in the community. This is one way for me to participate.”

The show runs November 9, 10, 11, and 12 at the William Glesby Centre. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Curtain rises at 7:30. Tickets cost $18 and can be purchased in two places: the Prairie Fusion Gift Shop (Mon – Thurs, 10:00-3:00) or MCC Furniture Plus (Tues - Sat, 9:30-4:00). Note: tickets are not available at the Glesby box office. If not sold out, tickets can also be purchased at the door before each show.

I designed the poster as my contribution to the production. ;)