Special to The Leader

Orange Community Players (OCP) will present a Southern true story of friendship and loss. The women in this play are witty, intelligent and above all, real characters. This is a true story. Robert Harling, in memory of Susan Robinson, his sister who died of diabetic complications, wrote Steel Magnolias. This play is dedicated to her son, Robert.

Steel Magnolias is a comedy/drama originally written for the stage by Harding and presented ‘Off Broadway.’ It was later adapted for the silver screen and began a Broadway run in 2005.

Truvy Jones runs a successful beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies in the neighborhood have a standing Saturday appointment. Along with her anxious and eager assistant, Annelle, styles the hair if many women about town: wealthy widow and former First Lady of Chinquapin, Clairee, and local curmudgeon Ouiser, intelligent and compassionate career woman, M’Lynn and her daughter Shelby, the prettiest girl in town.

Shelby’s engagement is the talk of the town, but the joy and excitement of her wedding quickly turn to concern as she faces a risky pregnancy and a myriad of health complications. As the women of Chinquapin make their way over life’s many hurdles together, they find comfort, and a fair about of verbal ribbing, in one another.

These ladies are as strong as STEEL and tender as MAGNOLIAS.

OCP plans a special dessert treat for Valentine’s Day matinee with wine, coffee, and Stephanie’s famous punch, during intermission.

Steel Magnolias opens at 7:37 p.m. Feb. 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, and 20. Sunday matinees are 2:37 p.m. Feb. 14 and 21. General admission is $15. Student admission is $10.

Diana Hill is the director. Barry Foster is making is debut as assistant director.

For reservation call 409-882-9137 or visit orangecommunityplayers.com.