Some plays endure because they tell timeless stories. Others remain in the repertoire because they understand people so completely that each new generation discovers something of itself within them. Robert Harling’s Steel Magnolias comfortably achieves both.
Nearly four decades after its premiere, this moving portrait of friendship, resilience and community continues to resonate, and Lee Lewis’ beautifully judged production is a compelling reminder of why. Inspired by the loss of Harling’s sister, Steel Magnolias finds extraordinary emotional depth in the seemingly ordinary rhythms of everyday life.
Set entirely within Truvy’s small-town Louisiana beauty salon, the play follows six women whose conversations range effortlessly from light-hearted gossip and playful banter to moments of profound vulnerability. Harling’s gift lies in making these transitions feel entirely natural, allowing humour and heartbreak to exist side by side.
Lee Lewis directs with remarkable sensitivity, never forcing the sentiment or the comedy. Instead, she allows the relationships to develop with warmth and authenticity, trusting Harling’s finely observed script and the exceptional ensemble to carry the emotional weight, inviting the audience to become part of this close-knit community.
Lisa McCune delivers a beautifully nuanced performance as M’Lynn, balancing maternal strength with quiet emotional fragility. Her journey is both restrained and deeply affecting, culminating in scenes of extraordinary power that never feel overstated.
Jessica Redmayne brings warmth, optimism and youthful spirit to Shelby, creating a character whose determination and joy remain infectious even as life presents increasingly difficult challenges. The bond between McCune and Redmayne forms the emotional heart of the production, their mother-daughter relationship unfolding with genuine affection and effortless credibility.
As salon owner Truvy, Mandy Bishop radiates warmth and humour, expertly steering the lively conversations while providing the reassuring presence that holds the group together. Tracy Mann’s Clairee offers impeccable comic timing and understated elegance, while Belinda Giblin relishes every deliciously acerbic remark as the cantankerous Ouiser, whose sharp tongue masks a generous heart. Madeline Flood rounds out the ensemble with a delightful performance as Annelle, charting her character’s transformation with confidence and charm.
The chemistry between the six performers is exceptional. They function not simply as individual characters but as a believable circle of friends, each bringing distinct personalities while contributing to the warmth and generosity that defines the production. Their easy camaraderie ensures that every laugh feels earned and every emotional moment lands with quiet authenticity.
Visually, the production is elegantly realised. Simone Romaniuk’s detailed beauty salon provides an inviting and believable setting that immediately establishes the play’s intimate atmosphere, complemented by costumes that subtly capture the characters’ individuality. Paul Jackson’s lighting gently marks the passage of time and shifting emotional moods, while Brady Watkins’ unobtrusive sound design supports the action without ever drawing attention to itself.
For those familiar with the much-loved 1989 film, there are plenty of recognisable moments, but this production succeeds on its own terms. It allows Harling’s finely observed dialogue and carefully developed characters to take centre stage. This production of Steel Magnolias is warm, funny and genuinely moving.
Steel Magnolias
Athenaeum Theatre, 188 Collins Street, Melbourne
Performance: Tuesday 28 July 2026
Season continues to 16 August 2026
Bookings: www.ticketmaster.com.au
For more information, visit: www.steelmagnoliasplay.com for details.
Images: Jessica Redmayne and Lisa McCune in Steel Magnolias – photo by Brett Boardman | Mandy Bishop in Steel Magnolias – photo by Brett Boardman | Belinda Giblin and Lisa McCune in Steel Magnolias – photo by Brett Boardman
Review: Rohan Shearn