E & e Performing Arts Center

Robert Harling was a struggling writer whose sister died of diabetic complications. His loss turned into the script of Steel Magnolias, an intense, yet joyful, exploration of a Southern community through the women frequenting Truvy's Beauty Parlor in Chinquapin, Louisiana, in the eighties. Hollywood turned that play into a movie starring Sally Field, Julia Roberts, Dolly Parton, Tom Skerritt, and Shirley MacLaine. Lifetime recently showed a version that was African-American-based, featuring Queen Latifah, Phylicia Rashad, Jill Scott, and Alfre Woodard. Now, the E&e Performing Arts Center in Kingsburg has brought Steel Magnolias to flower on its compact stage, and its aroma is sweet.