Steel Magnolias

9 Aug - 3 Sept 2016

The Hope Theatre

Matthew Parker’s skilfully directed ensemble piece doesn’t falter for a second

Stage Review

“I’m going to get my colours done. I’m going to find out if I’m a summer or spring or fall or winter. Why don’t you have it done, Shelby? You’re so fashion conscious

No. I’m scared to. I might find out that pink is not in my palette and I’m not sure I could live with that.”

Steel Magnolias (the basis for the much loved multi Oscar-nominated film) is the bittersweet story of six women who gather under the dryers at Truvy’s Beauty Salon to share gossip, laughter, recipes and beauty secrets on four significant days across three years of their lives in a small US Southern town. When tragedy strikes, they face it with sass and strength, supporting each other through thick and thin. By turns hilarious and poignant, Steel Magnolias is a heart warming portrait of friendship and love.

Steel Magnolias is the third in-house production from The Hope Theatre, whose multi award winning production of Lovesong of the Electric Bear transferred to the West End in 2015. The all-female cast is directed by Matthew Parker, OFFIE Award nominated Artistic Director of The Hope Theatre, designed by Rachael Ryan and with sound design by OFFIE Award winner Paul Freeman.

The Hope Theatre collaborated with Diabetes UK to raise awareness of the facts of the condition which features prominently in the play. A representative of Diabetes Islington visited the rehearsal room to give valuable medical input to the production.

In addition to it’s stunning 10 ★★★★★ reviews the show won the Break A Leg Critic’s Choice award for Best Off West End production and was nominated for Best Ensemble at the My Theatre Mates Also Recognised awards 2017. In addition Stephanie Beattie won the Break A Leg Most Unforgettable Performance award for her moving portrayal of M’Lynn.

Cast

M’Lynn: Stephanie Beattie
Annelle: Ariel Harrison
Ouiser: Maggie Robson
Clairee: Lin Sagovsky
Shelby: Samantha Shellie
Truvy: Jo Wickham

Creatives

Writer: Robert Harling
Director: Matthew Parker
Producer: David Ralf for The Hope Theatre
Designer: Rachel Ryan
Lighting: Tom Kitney
Sound: Paul Freeman
Stage Manager: Sarah Forsyth
Assistant Director: James McAndrew
Associate Producer: Cas Hodges
Hair and Wigs: Lidia Patrizia
Accent Coach: Dewi Hughes
Casting Director: Gabriella Shimeld-Fenn

A Must See

Carn's Theatre Passion

Staged beautifully and intimately

Break A Leg Review

Parker has ensured that the true essence of the story and the simplicities and complexities of the characters shine through in a natural and honest way

London Theatre 1

Directed superbly by Matthew Parker

Boyz Magazine

Matthew Parker’s direction gave life to the characters allowing them to continuously grow

West End Wilma

Little touches that could easily go unnoticed show the care in Parker's work. Anything less than perfect is not an option

Views From The Gods

Brilliant direction... The cast were uniformly brilliant as this band of vivacious characters

London Pub Theatres

A must see!

Curtain Up Show

Hilarious, magnificent & unforgettable