On Stage: The Alban Arts Center presents ‘Steel Magnolias’
ST. ALBANS, W.Va. (WCHS) — It’s a tale of female friendship and support through thick and thin. The Alban Arts Center is presenting the play “Steel Magnolias.”The show is rooted in humble beginnings but over the last three and a half decades the story has grown into one of the most beloved of our generation.”Anybody who sees this is going to be able to make a connection with a friend, a family member, all of those women relationships that we have that are so special,” Rebecca Robinson (M”Lynn Eatenton) said.The show focuses on a hair salon in a small Louisiana town, showcasing its owner and her clients. They all share an unbreakable bond of friendship which carries them through the storms and celebrations of life. Janet Prince plays the fiery Ouiser Boudreaux . “It is a very strong women’s story and I think when you look at the cast you also see very strong women who support each other and help each other over the rough spots,” Prince said. “To me that’s one of the beauties of live theatre, is that you never know when somebody’s going to need your help but you’re there. You’re there to make the show the best that it can be.”
Author Robert Harling based the play on his experiences tied to the death of his sister who passed away from diabetic complications. It takes place entirely in the hair salon. Filled with both laughter and tears, the show has traveled from its 1987 off-Broadway debut to a 1989 national tour and film adaptation, to finally making it to the Great White Way in 2005.The silver screen version features an all-star cast including Dolly Parton, Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Shirley Maclaine and Olympia Dukakis.Critics have praised “Steel Magnolias” for its charm, humor and realistic look at the impact of life-altering events.”These women are beautiful,” Anna Beaty (Shelby Eatenton) said. “I couldn’t have asked for a better group of ladies to work with. I truly think that from day one they were already their characters and ready to roll and it’s just been awesome to watch them come alive even more.”
