Elkhart Civic Theatre is staging “Steel Magnolias” at the Bristol Opera House for a two-weekend run this May. From left, are Leah Tipton as Annelle; Sharon Weissman as Clairee; Stephanie Yoder as Truvy; and Stacey Nickel as Ouiser. Photo provided by Elkhart Civic Theatre.

News Release

BRISTOL — Elkhart Civic Theatre will present the classic comedy-drama “Steel Magnolias” beginning Friday, May 12, at the Bristol Opera House, 210 E. Vistula St., Bristol.

Many people are familiar with the story of “Steel Magnolias” from the 1989 film that starred Sally Fields, Julia Roberts and Dolly Parton, among others. In Chinquapin, La., all the upper-crust ladies go to Truvy’s salon to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle, the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to her patrons: rich curmudgeon Ouiser (“I’m not crazy; I’ve just been in a bad mood for 40 years”); eccentric millionaire Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter Shelby is about to marry a “good ole boy.” Alternately hilarious and touching, “Steel Magnolias” ultimately reveals the strength and perseverance of its quirky characters.

The local play is directed by Tim Yoder, assisted by Bridgette Faulkner. The set design and construction is by Brock Butler and Demarée Dufour-Noneman, lighting design by Katie Helton and sound design by Garry Cobbum.

The Elkhart Civic Theatre cast includes: Stephanie Yoder as Truvy; Leah Tipton as Annelle; Sharon Weissman as Clairee; Kristin Kinder as Shelby; Janis Logsdon as M’Lynn; and Stacy Nickel as Ouiser.

Play times at the Bristol Opera House are 7:30 p.m. Friday, May 12; Saturday, May 13; Friday, May 19; and Saturday, May 20; and 3 p.m. Sunday, May 14, and Sunday, May 21.

Tickets cost $23 for seniors (ages 62 and older), $25 for adults, and $19 for students.

Tickets may be purchased online at elkhartcivictheatre.org/hoppy or by calling (574) 848-4116 weekday afternoons.

Elkhart Civic Theatre’s Mainstage season is supported by Jack and Laura Smith and Gaska Tape Inc., with media sponsor PBS Michiana WNIT.