Blackfriars Theatre Opens STEEL MAGNOLIAS on Friday

Get a taste of the South up North with Blackfriars Theatre's production of Robert Harling's hilarious and heartbreaking play, Steel Magnolias. Set in a beauty parlor in Louisiana, Steel Magnolias is a story of the friendship between six Southern women who gossip, laugh, harangue and hold each other through the best and worst of what life has to offer; all with perfectly done hair. With favorite lines like, "If you can't find anything good to say about anybody, come sit by me," and "Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion," this play is sure to have you rolling on the floor while reaching for your hankie.

"We have assembled a terrific cast of women to bring this classic comedy to Blackfriars Theatre," says Artistic Director and the play's director, John Haldoupis. "Funny, warm and at times heartbreaking, the show is a pure delight and the perfect surprise play to end our 63rd season." The cast includes Dawn Sargent as salon owner Truvy, Vicki Casarett as Clairee, Mary Tiballi as Shelby, Alexa Scott-Flaherty as M'Lynn, Kaitlin Meleski as Annelle and Cara D'Manuele as the grouchy yet lovable Ouiser.

Steel Magnolias is a celebration of strength and sisterhood and is ideal for a night out with your girl friends. It will be performed at Blackfriars Theatre (795 East Main Street, Rochester 14618) beginning May 17 and running throughJune 2. Performances are Thursday's, May 23 and 30 at 7:30 pm; Friday's, May 17, 24 and 31 at 8:00 pm; Saturday's, May 18 and June 2 at 8:00 pm, and Sunday's, May 19 and June 1, 2:00 pm. Tickets are $28.50-$36.50 and available in person at Blackfriars Theatre, online at www.blackfriars.org, or by calling 585-454-1260. If available, tickets can be purchased at the door beginning one-hour prior to performance. Box Office hours are Monday thruFriday, 10:00 am to 2:00 p.m., and Saturday's, noon to 4:00 p.m. MasterCard, Visa, and Discover are accepted at no additional charge.

Blackfriars Theatre, a professional, not-for-profit theatre located on Rochester, NY's "Theatre Row is located at 795 East Main Street. Parking is available on site. Handicapped seating is available. For more information regarding Blackfriars Theatre, please visit their website at www.blackfriars.org.