The action is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle (who is not sure whether or not she is still married), the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, ("I’m not crazy, I’ve just been in a bad mood for forty years"); an eccentric millionaire, Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby (the prettiest girl in town), is about to marry a “good ole boy.” Filled with hilarious repartee and not a few acerbic but humorously revealing verbal collisions, the play moves toward tragedy when, in the second act, the spunky Shelby (who is a diabetic) risks pregnancy and forfeits her life. The sudden realization of their mortality affects the others, but also draws on the underlying strength—and love—which give the play, and its characters, the special quality to make them truly touching, funny and marvelously amiable company in good times and bad.

By Robert Harling

Directed by Laura Majore

Performance dates:

March 7-9 and 14-16, 2025

Auditions:

November 17 from 2:00pm-4:00pm

November 18 from 7:00pm-9:00pm

Cast of Characters:

M'Lynn Eatenton (F, 50s):

A strong, caring mother who navigates her daughter's health challenges with grace and resilience.

Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie (F, 20s):

M'Lynn's spirited and optimistic daughter, determined to live life fully despite her illness.

Truvy Jones (F, 40s):

The warm and witty owner of the beauty salon where the women gather, offering wisdom and humor.

Annelle Dupuy-DeSoto (F, 20s):

A shy, reserved newcomer to town who evolves from uncertainty to religious devotion.

Ouiser Boudreaux (F, 60s):

A tough, sharp-tongued yet lovable curmudgeon with a hidden heart of gold.

Clairee Belcher (F, 60s):

A wealthy and cheerful widow who enjoys life and always offers support and wit to her friends.