REVIEW: Steel Magnolias

Steel Magnolias at Theatre Royal was a delight. The audience was energised from the first puff of hairspray, so it seems that most people there were familiar with the show and cast. However, I had no idea what I was in for, having never seen nor read the show. What I got was a beautiful story of womanhood and community, a loving tribute by writer Robert Harling, and I now understand why it has been adored for decades. And not only is it an excellent script, but with its bright, kitschy set design and playful costumes, this production is absolutely cracking.

The production’s strength lies first and foremost in cast cohesion. I could feel the bonds of love between the women, regardless of the acerbic banter they slung at one another (or rather, that Ouiser slung at Clairee). The richness of these relationships shines through great performances by Belinda Giblin, Lotte Beckett, Mandy Bishop, Debra Lawrance, Lisa McCune and Jessica Redmayne.

Photo credit: Brett Boardman

Mandy Bishop plays Truvy, the owner of the salon that is the women’s true home. Campy and over the top, she excelled as the nosy hairdresser who loves gossip only slightly less than she loves her friends.

Annelle, played by newcomer Lotte Beckett, is our outsider turned insider. Quickly adopted into the dynamic, she contrasts with the rest of the women as she grows into herself. Beckett’s deft performance brings the mix of born-again Christian and Southern humour to life in a wonderfully entertaining way.

Ouiser, played by Belinda Giblin, was a highlight and great foil to Clairee, played by Debra Lawrance. Their banter and timing were next to none, and despite the overtly antagonist nature of their banter, Giblin and Lawrance imbue the relationship with deep care. You cannot help but love them both as they retread what are clearly old arguments. If you want a lesson in making friendships feel real on stage, look no further.

Then we get to Jessica Redmayne, our darlin’ Shelby. It’s hard not to fall in love with her, and Redmayne leaves it all on stage, bringing Shelby’s innocence, courage and grit to life. Her earnest performance weaves together marriage, motherhood and long-term illness, giving us something as warm as Shelby’s favourite pink.

Last, and certainly not least, is the ever-incredible Lisa McCune as Shelby’s mother, M’Lynne. A protective and fierce mother who just wants the best for her child, McCune delivers an inspiring performance. Powerful and emotional, her tearful monologue will grab your heart and hold it close; I defy anyone to have dry eyes by its end.

Photo credit: Brett Boardman

Harling’s writing captures the tangled layers of love and acidic barbs of female friendships wonderfully. His characters feel real, interactions natural, and the bond tighter than Selby’s wedding updo. However, given the richness of the second half, I couldn’t help but want more tension and drama before the break. While it does show how life can so quickly go from rosy to devastating, it still felt like we needed something extra to pull us through. But that aside, the closeness and tenderness these women have for one another shone through in every scene and made for a rich viewing experience every step of the way.

So, if you’re looking for a good night out, go see Steel Magnolias. Full of heart and heartache, it’s well worth a trip to the city to step into a world of big hair, big laughs and big emotions.

Now playing at Sydney's Theatre Royal until May 30 th

4.5 out of 5 Stars