Steel Magnolias - BATS Review
19th September 2024
Robert Harling’s 1987 American comedy drama tells the story of the patrons of Truvy’s salon where no holds are barred when it comes to gossip, life stories and of course the obligatory laughter and tears.
Deborah Urmston plays salon owner Truvy, who keeps members of the close-knit community together as they attend their beauty treatments. The opening scene interactions with new stylist Annelle, played by Lola Walch, were particularly well played and allowed both to settle into their roles, showing an understanding of the character as she portrays her newfound faith, convincing us that she was indeed born again. A steady performance from Lola which come across well.
As the seemingly well to do Clairee, Sue Slack was suitably elegant, still dining out on her role as former First Lady of the town, her status stays outside the salon door and she becomes one of the girls. Hannah Boardman offers a standout comical performance as Ouiser, the ready for anything independent woman whose bark is worse than her bite. A well thought out portrayal, never overplayed by Hannah, whose knack for comic timing has proved its worth in this production.
Providing an expressive, engaging, and in places funny performance, Jess Maloney as Shelby was excellent, giving a performance many beyond her years would be proud of. Equalling this, Julie Ratcliffe is charasmatic as M’Lynn, Shelby’s Mother. The speech in act two was spellbinding and brought tears to the eyes of cast and audience alike.
The realistic set, complete with every aspect of a salon you can think of, worked well and an array of properties completed this. Creating the set in the limited space available in the Turnpike Gallery must be acknowledged, so bravo to Richard Pilkington and Jack Riley for set construction.
Some first night nerves were apparent from a couple of the actors, however, this didn’t detract too much from the overall enjoyment of the production.
Directed by Neil Gredecki, this classic piece, made famous by the 1989 film, is safe in the hands of this talented theatre company. Well done to all concerned.
Paul Cohen
BATS