Steel Magnolias Hits Keegan Stage

The Keegan Theatre closes its 2011 season with Robert Harling's comedy-drama STEEL MAGNOLIAS, running July 23rd through August 21st at the Church Street Theater.

STEEL MAGNOLIAS focuses on the camaraderie of six Southern women who talk, gossip, needle and harangue each other through the best of times- and comfort and repair one another through the worst. The play is alternately hilarious and touching with six female characters that are delicate as magnolias yet as strong as steel.

STEEL MAGNOLIAS is directed by Mark A. Rhea and showcases mother and daughter combo Sheri S. Herren (M'Lynn) and Laura Herren (Shelby). The cast includes Linda High (Ousier), Jane Petkofsky (Clairee), Larissa Gallagher (Truvy) and Brianna Letourneau (Annelle).

Robert Harling was inspired to write his first play after his sister Susan died of complications from diabetes. "Steel Magnolias" premiered off-Broadway at the WPA Theater in 1987, then quickly transferred to the Lucille Lortel Theater and became an instant sensation, running for three years and spawning a hit movie.

The Keegan Theatre, in its 14th season and the resident company at Church Street Theater in Dupont Circle, recently signed a five year lease extension.