By Kristen Weyer.
The classic and heartfelt story of Steel Magnolias is now playing at Theatre Three until May 7th, 2022. Written in 1987 by Robert Harling, it is inspired by his experiences and emotions of losing his sister to diabetes two years previously. Directed here by Mary Powers, this production will make you laugh, sigh, smile, and most likely cry as well.
The action takes place in Truvy’s beauty salon where six women meet over the course of two years from 1983-1985. These friends take the audience on a journey through their lives. The ups, the downs, the joy and happiness, and the fear and sorrow. While other side stories come into play, (some serious, some very amusing), the main theme is following the life of Shelby, a young woman with diabetes. We see how she refuses to let the disease control her life, but rather reaches for her dreams and happiness no matter what.
Shelby is wonderfully played by Michelle LaBozzetta. She transforms from youthful bride in the opening act, into maturing wife and mother with a smooth, believable style. Her infectious smile and youthful energy perfectly portray the spunk of her character. Truvy is excellently portrayed by Stephanie Moreau. Her calm and caring demeanor made her feel like the leader of the little group of friends, and her excellent comedic timing came through on more than one occasion. Christine N. Boehm, wonderfully plays the new girl in town, Annelle. Her versatility is very impressive as her character goes from nervous, to confident, to pious throughout the show. Clairee, the late mayor’s wife, is perfectly played by Marci Bing. She has the spot on combination of proper sweet lady, and sassy outgoing spunk that makes her perfectly delightful. She also arguably gets the biggest laugh of the show. Ginger Dalton magnificently plays the irascible Ouiser, Shelby’s family neighbor. Her grouchy and sarcastic characterization is fantastic fun and hysterically funny. Shelby’s mother, M’Lynn is stunningly portrayed by Linda May. She perfectly embodies the grace and quiet charm of her character, and at the same time, gives the most heartbreaking and emotional monologue that is guaranteed to leave very few dry eyes in the audience. For me she stole the show.
Steel Magnolias isn’t exactly a happy play, but it isn’t only a sad one either. It’s both, it’s…life. It’s how we choose to deal with the hand we’ve been given, and what we choose to do with it. It’s how those choices affect ourselves and those around us. It’s strength, wrapped in beauty. In this play it’s women specifically, but I would argue humans in general are able to bear more than we think can, until situations arise which force our awareness. No one wishes to discover this, but once we have, a new strength and resilience can be the silent badges won, wrested from the jaws of adversity.
This is an excellent play, beautifully performed. It should not be missed.
Steel Magnolias is playing at Theatre Three in Port Jefferson NY until May 7th. For tickets, directions and current entrance requirements click here.