Audition for 'Steel Magnolias' March 26-27

MONROEMonroe Community Players will hold auditions for the classic play "Steel Magnolias" by Robert Harling at 6:30 p.m. March 26-27 at the Player's studio theater at The Mall of Monroe, 2121 N. Monroe St.

There are six roles for women:

Truvy Jones, a hair salon owner in her late 30s. The play is set in the salon. "Truvy is quite the gossip, and loves to be in everyone’s personal affairs," Players said.

Annelle Dupuy-Desoto is 18-25 and is "a shy, private and creative individual. She is kind and gracious towards the women she meets in the beauty salon," Players said.

Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie is in her mid-20s and about to marry Jackson Latcherie. "She wants to have a very romantic and peaceful marriage, instead of the hectic relationship that her parents have," Players said.

Ouiser Bourdeaux is in her late 50s or early 60s and is described as bitter and annoying. "The things she values the most are her dog and her property," Players said.

M’Lynn Eatenton is Shelby's mother. "Her main priority is her daughter; she takes great care of her daughter, almost to the point of becoming overprotective. On the surface, she appears strong and collected, but deep down she is fragile," Players said.

Clairee Belcher is the mayor’s widow and the owner of the local radio station. She is in her late 50s. "She is known for her 'smart mouth' and 'sweet tooth,'" Players said.

"Steel Magnolias" premiered on stage in 1987, was made into an award-winning movie in 1989. The film starred Sally Field, Dolly Parton, Julia Roberts, Shirley MacLaine, Olympia Dukaki, and Daryl Hannah. The story is set over three years.

"During this time, the women discuss relationships and deal with personal issues in their lives, especially the health and pregnancy of Shelby, which becomes the central focus of the story," Players said.

“This play has long been one of my favorites,” said director Brian Burchette-Ross. “It’s rare to find a show that so beautifully blends humor and drama. It is everything theatre is meant to be.”

The show will be staged May 17-19.

For additional information, visit monroecommunityplayers.org.

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Audition for 'Steel Magnolias' March 26-27