Auditions set for ‘Steel Magnolias’

OAKVILLE — Phoenix Stage Company, 133 Main St., is holding auditions for its next production, “Steel Magnolias,” Feb. 24-25 at the theater from 7-9 p.m.

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; an eccentric millionairess, Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter, Shelby, 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, a diabetic, risks pregnancy and forfeits her life. The sudden realization of their mortality affects the others, but also draws on their underlying strength.

No appointments are needed. Those auditioning will be reading from the script and pages will be provided. The production is being directed by Donna G. Storms. Six women are needed. Actors of all ethnicities and experience levels are encouraged to audition. All roles are open. Performance dates for the show are April 27-May 11. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Actors must be available for all performance dates in order to be cast. Rehearsal dates are to be determined and will be available at auditions. Find more information at www.phoenixstagecompany.org or 860-417-2505.