New Venture Theatre’s latest production revives an American classic by adding a new spin on the ladies who are delicate as magnolias and tough as steel.
“Steel Magnolias,” a play set in a small Louisiana beauty shop, tells the story of a bond found among six Southern women as they experience tragedy, triumph and transformation.
New Venture’s production will feature a mostly African-American cast, which the play’s producer Greg Williams Jr. said will give a unique flair to the performance.
“Patrons really can expect a brand new, hilarious Steel Magnolias,” Williams said. “Nothing in the script has really been changed, but the play has been given new life.”
Williams said each actress was encouraged to bring their own cultural experiences and acting style to their characters, but the story will remain relatable to all cultures because of its universal themes.
Baton Rouge Community College freshman Lindsey Eakin, who transferred from LSU last spring, will play the role of timid town newcomer Annelle. Eakin said she got the part because she shares many similarities with the character.
She said she was excited to play the role because she was a fan of the original movie, but she was relieved her director encouraged her to develop her own character, rather than copying the movie.
Eakin, who has only performed in one other play with the company, said she initially felt intimidated when she met her more seasoned cast mates. But after the first read-through, she said she immediately felt welcomed and supported.
“We just laugh a lot during rehearsals,” Eakin said. “I really enjoy it.”
Jasmine Haynes, Baton Rouge Community College sophomore, plays the role of town pretty girl Shelby. Similar to the characters, Haynes said the cast developed a bond after the first day of rehearsal.
“Our close relationship in the show is reflecting in our relationships outside of the show day-by-day,” Haynes said.
She said the chemistry shared among her cast members stems from each actress’ similar work ethic and passion about both the play and the theater as a whole.
Other cast members include Shana Allen as Truvy, Nikisha Kelly as Clairee and Shanna Burris as Ouiser.
Williams said each actress was chosen because of their strong presence on stage and strengths in comedic timing. He said the play involved a lot of “Southern wit” that could only be executed by performers who had the ability to be inconspicuously funny.
“I was really looking for dynamic people who could pinpoint how to deliver lines in a witty manner,” Williams said.
Eakin said her favorite part of working with New Venture Theater is the family atmosphere the company facilitates during production and everyone’s eagerness for success.
Williams said people in the theater often refer to each other as “New Venture family” because of its aims to serve as a source of networking and fellowship for those interested in arts around the Baton Rouge community.
“We’re trying to create this artistic family with a setting of people who can embrace each others differences,” Williams said.
New Venture Theater has produced other plays adapted from films, including “The Wiz” and “Dreamgirls,” which Williams said boasted more than 3,000 patrons during its run.
He said he expects a similar turnout for the current production, predicting up to 1,000 to 1,500 patrons to attend “Steel Magnolias.”
The play will run from April 21 through April 22 at Independence Park Theatre. Tickets are $20 and are available for purchase now at newventuretheater.com.
 
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Contact David Jones at [email protected]