Tough as Steel, soft as magnolias
- mdellaquila6
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
A review by Michael Romito
Many who are familiar with the movie version of Steel Magnolias know it as a heartwarming tale filled with humor wrapped around a devastating tragedy. But it is also the story of Southern hospitality, long-lasting friendships, and the incredible strength of six formidable women, more present in the staged versions, which allows these women to shine without the distraction of having men in the cast. These women must overcome many challenges, and they rely on each other, as they cannot rely on the men in their lives who are often the source of their woes.
Truvy’s beauty salon is the retreat where these women meet to share recipes, gossip, complaints, advice, but mostly friendship, support and love. Jessica Mann, as Truvy, deftly establishes herself as the driving force of this group. With a husband who appears more interested in the sofa than his wife, and two absent sons, Truvy effectively transitions to being a mother for the ladies of the town, providing coffee with their cuts, sharpness with their shampoos, and sanctuary with their stylings.
Truvy’s mothering is most notable with her acceptance of Annelle, the newest resident of Chinquapin Parish, having been deserted and left nearly penniless by her “maybe” husband. Truvy gives Annelle a job, a place to live, and helps her blossom from mousy to marvelous. Liz Aber, as Annelle, brilliantly shifts through several phases of Annelle’s transformations.
Steel Magnolias opens as Truvy is preparing to style the ladies for the wedding of M’Lynn’s daughter, Shelby. Shelby, as played by Madison Niness, expertly portrays an array of emotions - joy at her impending wedding, anxiety over her mother’s protective nature, despair involving her health restrictions, stress surrounding her relationships, and uncertainty about her future. Shelby’s mother, M’Lynn, must tread the fine line between caring and smothering. Marianne Dell’Aquila as M’Lynn does so with tender agony as she lovingly accepts her daughter’s choices even while her heart breaks knowing what the consequences may be.
Jan Thompson as Clairee and Deb Takes as Ouiser round out this exceptional ensemble. Ms. Thompson’s understated performance as the bereaved widow, still brimming with life, contrasts well with Ms. Takes’ boisterous curmudgeon, still able to show a spark of warmth and delivers a fair share of humor, including, “I don’t go to the theatre because I can nap for free at home for free.”
Director, Thomas Rush has assembled and skillfully led a dream cast that is sure to make you laugh, cry, and appreciate your blessings. Set designer, Kent Gerhart, has created a salon to showcase the colorful ladies who gather there. Producer and show manager, Cathy Zeller, has created an amazing appropriately-themed lobby environment to convince you that you’ve made a wise choice in going to dcp theatre to see Steel Magnolias, because it is definitely more entertaining than a nap.
Remaining performances at dcp theatre are April 25 and May1-2 2026 at 7:30 PM, and April 26 and May 2-3, 2026 at 2 PM.
Special thanks to the sponsor of this production, Accent On Beauté. Visit them for all of your beauty needs!
Comments