By Desiree Williams
From friendship to marriage to motherhood, “Steel Magnolias” covers it all. The play runs from now until Aug. 7 at the Center Stage Community Theatre in Lebanon, at 604 Powell St.
“It centers around the relationship these women have that they always come back together,” said Amanda Bell, who plays M’lynn. “There’s no way this story doesn’t affect people.”
Bell worked in community theatre before, but she took a 20-year hiatus to raise her family in Fishers. She got involved again a few years ago through Nickel Plate Players and started auditioning more. Bell decided to audition for “Steel Magnolias” after stage-managing a show at the Westfield Playhouse where she met Pam Kinglsey, who encouraged Bell to audition alongside her.
“Steel Magnolias” takes place in Truvy’s beauty salon in Louisiana where six women come together on Saturday mornings to get their hair done. The story takes place during four scenes, with each focusing on a new event beginning with a wedding.
“It’s one of those plays that speaks to every milestone in a woman’s life,” said Pam Kingsley, who portrays Clariee.
The play follows Shelby through marriage and motherhood, but also speaks about divorce, aging and dealing with an empty nest. Bell and Kingsley said it’s a beautifully written play with a powerful story, which is why threatres continue to produce it.
“When people leave, I want them to feel uplifted because family and friendship means everything,” Kingsley said. “I want people … to know we are all in it together.”
Tickets are $13 for students and seniors and $15 for adults. To purchase tickets, call 765-894-5587 or visit brownpapertickets.com.
