Steel Magnolias at New London Theatre

Thanks to the 1989 movie of the same name, most of us are familiar with the story.   Six southern women gather at the local beauty parlor each week and through those conversations we learn about their lives, their fears, their struggles and their strengths.  It is the strength these women exhibit through the struggles that gives the play its name.  Women are as beautiful as a magnolia, and as strong as steel.

The play is set entirely in the Beauty Parlor owned by Truvy.  It consists of four scenes that take us through three years of the character’s lives.  It is the emotional story of Shelby that provides the story arc of the play.  As we meet the group they are preparing for Shelby’s wedding day. 

Character traits are exhibited as we learn that Annelle is shy and recently deserted by her husband.  Clairee is the former Mayor’s wife, recently widowed; and is unlikely but close friends with cantankerous Ouiser.  Truvy’s humor divulges her disconnect with her husband and sons.  Shelby’s history of diabetes is revealed as is her relationship with her mother, M’Lynn.   

The cast is strong. Each actress in the show has moments that allow her to showcase her talents. Special mention must go to Lisa Gordon for her wonderful comic timing as Clairee and to Beth Mappes as the grief stricken M’Lynn who delivers a powerful monologue that had audience members in tears.

This story is sometimes unfairly labeled a “chic play.”  The witty banter and sharp writing is pure entertainment and indeed on Friday night the loudest laughs from the audience were coming from the male patrons.

So grab your significant other, or your girlfriends, and get over to for "Steel Magnolias."

The play will run through September 25.

New London Theatre is successfully transforming itself into a top-notch community theater and the community of Snellville is very lucky to have such .

In addition to a jam packed season, New London Theatre has slowly been renovating their space at 2485 East Main Street. Over the summer, the steps and railings to the seating area were improved. A new air conditioning unit was installed. And, theater seats are expected to be replaced, as well. 

Theatre organizers aim to fill those seats with the The plays this season are: "Steel Magnolias," "Dracula," "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," "Second Samuel," "Sordid Lives," "Nunsense 2: The Second Coming," "Almost Maine," "The Miracle Worker," and "Hairspray."

Go to the theatre's website for more information: http://www.newlondontheatre.org/index.html