PCCA Archive

September 2005

"Steel Magnolias"

Synopsis: This classic play explores the relationships between six southern women ages 20 to sixtyish through hilarious comedy as well as heart grabbing realities. The women are indeed steel magnolias – outwardly fragile but made of pure strength. “This is the best play ever written for an ensemble female cast. I love this story,” says Paulette Roberts who plays Ouiser. “The movie was good, but the play is wonderful. Where the movie is half comedy and half tragedy, the play is 98% pure comedy and still gets its message across. You feel elated just getting to know these great characters.”

The action takes place in Truvy’s beauty shop in Chinquapin Parish, Louisiana. The play opens on Shelby’s (played Rachel Hubbard) wedding day and our ladies are getting beatified for the big event. Truvy (Beth Altemus) and her new assistant Annelle (Suzanne Smith) are working their magic on M’Lynn (Kathy Minor), mother of the bride; Clairee (Constance Waggy), local granddame of the parish and Ouiser (Paulette Roberts), local curmudgeon (a kindly term!).

“I am so excited about this play and absolutely thrilled with my cast,” exclaims Paula Hott, director. “This is my first time on this side of the footlights and with this play, this cast, and my husband Craig as the producer, I could not be more pleased. Mike Roberts (veteran director at Smith Creek) told me I could call on him anytime – and that’s really good to know!”