The Firehouse Theatre to Kick Off 2016 Season with STEEL MAGNOLIAS, 1/28-2/7

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 Annelle (Taylor Donnelson), her eager new assistant who is not sure whether or not she is still married, the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy (Dayna Lyons Fries) dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town's rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, (LisaAnne Haram), an eccentric millionaire; Miss Clairee (Suzy McGeeney Dotson), who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M'Lynn (Jenny Tucker), whose daughter, Shelby (Alexandra Cassens), the prettiest girl in town, 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 (who is a diabetic) risks pregnancy and forfeits her life. The sudden realization of their mortality affects the others, but also draws on the underlying strength-and love-which give the play, and its characters, the special quality to make them truly touching, funny and marvelously amiable company in good times and bad.

The Firehouse Theatre's production of Steel Magnolias is directed by Jason Leyva. Production Team members include Branson White (Assistant Director, Stage Manager, Light Design), Danica Patrick (Sound Design), Logan Coley Broker (Wig and Hair Design), Ryan Matthieu Smith (Costumes), Nick Villemarette and Courtney White (Lighting and Sound Technician). Steel Magnolias, written by Robert Harling, is presented by special arrangement with DRAMATISTS PLAY SERVICE, Inc.

The show opens Friday, January 29 at 7:30 pm, followed immediately by a post-show reception. Performances will continue through February 7th on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:30 pm. Purchase tickets online at www.thefirehousetheatre.com, via phone at 972-620-3747 or in person at the box office one hour before curtain. Adult tickets are $22, with senior and student discounts available. Group (10+) discounts available by phone. Half-price Preview performance is $11 on Thursday, January 28 at 7:30 pm.

Photos and marketing materials are available upon request.

The Firehouse Theatre's mission is to provide a cross section of the finest traditional theatrical works that are suitable and affordable for all ages. They also provide educational enrichment programs and create opportunities for adults and children to develop talents in all aspects of theatre arts.