Highland Rebel Theater is gearing up to host one of the most famous productions, Steel Magnolias.
According to Shona Covington, director for the productions, although many are familiar with the show from the movie featuring Julia Roberts and Sally Field, it was first written as a play by Robert Harling.
“It was a play before it was a film, and it is based on a true story. The names have been changed, but it is about his sister and mother. He wrote the play in their honor, and it was so popular, it became a film later,” Covington said.
After the release of the movie in 1989, the play was resurrected and was widely produced across the country.
“We have been rehearsing for about two months. We started in October and have continued through November,” Covington said. “It is an all-female cast of six. I have very talented young actresses.”
The production will take place at the Thunderbird Recreational Center in Cherokee Village Dec. 2, 3 and 4 at 7 p.m., a venue Covington said is well suited to set the ambiance.
“It is going to be beautiful in that building with all the beautiful pine and windows all around. It’s a perfect venue for this show. It fits the time,” Covington said.
The cast features Dani Jordan as Truvy; Nayomei Shackelford as Annelle; Alli Webber as Clairee; McKenzie Stewart as Shelby; Kayla Sue Pickle as M’lynn and Emily Taylor as Ouiser.
Admission is $5 for adults and $2 for students and children.
“It’s a beautiful play and it is about hope and friendship, support and the hard things in life; how friendships help us get through those things. It shows the importance of friendship and a mother’s love,” Covington said. “I hope the community will come and support these young actors.”
Lauren is a an award-winning journalist who decided after 10 years of newspaper experience to venture out. Hallmark Times was born.
