PICTURE CAPTION - Shelby-Anna Johnson, Clairee-Diana Bailey, M'Lynn-Ruthanne Kerr, Annelle-Jordan Larson, Ouiser-Linda Llewelyn, Truvy-Grace Peatross
Steel Magnolias Actors Feature
Contributed by b Bridgette Preston
As rehearsals for VPA’s production of Steel Magnolias ramps up for the January 17 opening, the six-woman cast recently huddled up before rehearsal to share thoughts about performing in such an American classic. The play, written by Robert Harling in 1987, has endured as a beloved work that captures Southern American culture and female relationships. It has been consistently performed by professional and community theaters since its Broadway premiere, demonstrating its lasting appeal.
Diana Bailey, who performs the role of Clairee Belcher, says Steel Magnolias is considered theatrical comfort food due to its familiar, heartwarming themes, witty dialogue, and emotional depth. “That VPA is serving up this American theater classic as a dinner theater event emphasizes the physical and spiritual nourishment that this beloved play provides.”
The play’s focus on a close-knit group of Southern women navigating life’s joys and tragedies resonates universally, offering audiences a mix of humor, nostalgia, and catharsis. The beauty salon serves as a safe space where the characters share their joys, sorrows, and vulnerabilities, showcasing the strength that comes from emotional bonding and mutual care.
The “mother” role of M’Lynn Eatenton, is played by Ruthanne Kerr. “Even though I don’t have any biological children of my own, I’ve had the great opportunity to do lots of nurturing of my sisters’ children and lots of kids in the community,” Kerr says. “I tap into those emotions, and then, near the end of the play, when I’m giving my heart-wrenching monologues I tend to think about my own mama and how much she loves me and how much I love her,” Kerr says, her eyes glistening with emotion.
Anna Johnson performs in the iconic role of Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie, the “prettiest girl in town” who decides to have a baby despite her severe medical issues. This role was played by Julia Roberts in the 1989 film adaptation, earning Roberts her first Academy Award nomination, and cemented Steel Magnolias as an American classic.
“My biggest challenge with this role is that Shelby is a roller coaster of emotions all the time,” Johnson says, “One second Shelby could be the happiest and then the next minute she can be really sassy, or angry, or sad and it’s been challenging to tap into that fluctuation. I feel that I’m not like that so I have to find within myself a different personality to portray Shelby,” Johnson said.
As the local performers took turns sharing their thoughts about being in Steel Magnolias, it became clear that they were already channeling the relatable characters and themes of resilience, friendship, and community. In the same way that the beauty salon serves as a safe space where the characters share their joys, sorrows, and vulnerabilities, the VPA rehearsal time for the Steel Magnolias cast illustrates the strength that comes from emotional bonding and mutual care.
“All Alaskan’s know the value of a big plate of comfort food, and we think this show, Steel Magnolias, in the middle of winter will provide some soul-satisfying nourishment for everyone,” added Diana Bailey. “ Most people have seen the movie, but a live performance is so intimate, I hope we sell out every show! But now we’ve got a rehearsal to get through, so ladies, let’s get busy!”