By Richelle Sutton
If you haven’t seen Steel Magnolias yet, you can go to Cache Theatre Company‘s production in Logan, Utah and you won’t miss out. Written by Robert Harling, Steel Magnolias story revolves around a charming hair salon where the neighborhood women consistently gather to get their hair done by Truvy and Annelle. Shelby is the daughter of M’Lynn, one of the women who frequents the salon, and we watch throughout the play as Shelby strives to reach her dreams of raising her own family while suffering from the effects of severe diabetes. The women in the community are brought into the triumphs and tragedies of her decisions, showing the strength that comes from a close-knit community of women.
This cast of wonderfully talented women is outrageously quirky and heart-warming. Marianne Sidwell (director) has done impeccable work with these ladies to create a sense of community. Elisabeth Spencer (Shelby) absolutely dazzles as a sweet Southern belle. She is adept at showing the strength of character that the role of Shelby calls for and has a smile that shines brighter than the lights onstage. Kathleen Bateman plays a very stable interpretation of M’Lynn, which shows an immense contrast at the end when her character finally breaks. I love seeing her calm and strict image throughout the scene, symbolizing the fortitude that these women have within themselves. Kensie Beus is absolutely delightful as Annelle, revealing a gawky and awkward young adult trying to settle into her own way of life. She is adept at bringing out this character, where other versions tend to bury her in anonymity. Cathy Neeley (Clairee) is a hoot and a holler, delivering her lines with astute comedic timing. Jennifer Birchnell is very period-trendy and immensely caring as Truvy. She holds herself with confidence and poise as she works around the stage. And last but not least, Sandi Gillam rounds out the cast as Ouiser, the ornery but ultimately loveable punchline of most of the jokes. Sandi is much more forgiving in her role, showing the deep friendship these ladies have for one another despite their many differences.
What makes this script so lovable for me is partly due to the throwback to the eighties. I was immensely enjoying the costume choices for each of the characters and how they showed the character development within each person over the passage of time. In congruence to the costumes were the hair and wig stylings done by Susan Ryan Carpenter. Each hairdo in every scene brings so much life and insight to the characters. The stage (designed by Anne Benson) is also decked out in beautiful 80’s fashion with pinups of easily recognized celebrities and bright neon colors encompassing the walls and door. I was also pleased with the functionality of all of the props (Christy Johnson). There was so much around without it feeling too busy and it was all used effortlessly.
The Cache Theatre Company really helps to broaden the feeling of community in such a classic piece as Steel Magnolias. It is easily a must-see at the Utah Theatre in Logan, Utah where these great women can melt the hearts of all those interested in a production celebrating life, love, and friendship.
Cache Theatre Company presents Steel Magnolias, written by Robert Harling.
The Utah Theatre, 18 West Center Street, Logan, UT 84321
February 7- February 17, 2020, 7:30 PM Saturday Matinee February 8 and 15, 1:30 PM
Tickets: $12-$15
Cache Theatre Company Webpage
Cache Theatre Company’s Tickets Webpage
Cache Theatre Company Facebook Page
Steel Magnolias Facebook Event
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