Marion Palace Theatre Announces Auditions for Steel Magnolias
Six women. One beauty salon. A story filled with laughter, love, and unforgettable friendships.
The Marion Palace Theatre is calling on local performers to bring the beloved Southern comedy-drama Steel Magnolias to life! Auditions for this heartfelt production will take place on Sunday, November 22, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM, under the direction of Kristi Wink.
Written by Robert Harling, Steel Magnolias invites audiences into Truvy's beauty salon in a small Louisiana town, where six extraordinary women share gossip, laughter, life's celebrations, and its greatest challenges. With sharp Southern wit and deeply moving moments, this cherished story celebrates friendship, resilience, and the strength found in one another.
Whether you're a seasoned performer or considering stepping onto the stage for the first time, we encourage you to audition and become part of this unforgettable production.
Audition Details
Production: Steel Magnolias by Robert Harling
Date: Sunday, November 22, 2026
Time: 5:00–7:00 PM
Ages: 16 and older
What to Prepare: Auditioners will read selections from the script.
Performance Dates: January 23 & 24, 2027
Meet the Characters
Steel Magnolias features six distinct female characters, each bringing her own personality, humor, and heart to the story.
TRUVY JONES — Approximately 40
The owner of the beauty shop and the welcoming presence at the center of the story. Truvy's salon is where friendships flourish and everyone's lives intertwine.
ANNELLE DUPUY-DESOTO — Approximately 19
The beauty shop assistant. Annelle is a young woman finding her place in the world as she becomes part of the salon's close-knit circle.
CLAIREE BELCHER — Approximately 66
The widow of the town's former mayor and a true Southern grande dame. Clairee brings sophistication, wit, and a lively personality to the group.
SHELBY EATENTON-LATCHERIE — Approximately 25
Known as the prettiest girl in town, Shelby is spirited, determined, and at the heart of the play's emotional journey.
M'LYNN EATENTON — Approximately 50
Shelby's mother, a socially prominent career woman whose love and concern for her daughter form one of the story's most powerful relationships.
OUISER BOUDREAUX — Approximately 66
Pronounced "Weezer," Ouiser is a wealthy, sharp-tongued curmudgeon whose acerbic humor and lovable personality make her unforgettable.
A Note About the Characters
As emphasized in the character descriptions provided by Concord Theatricals, these women are witty, intelligent, and, above all, real. They should be portrayed as authentic, multidimensional people rather than exaggerated Southern stereotypes or caricatures.
While the character descriptions include approximate ages, auditions are open to performers ages 16 and older.
What to Expect at Auditions
Auditions will consist of readings from the script, allowing performers to explore the characters and their relationships.
No prepared monologue is required. Performers of varying experience levels are encouraged to attend.
At its heart, Steel Magnolias is an ensemble story built on the relationships between six women. From quick-witted exchanges to deeply emotional conversations, each character plays an important role in bringing the story to life.
About the Production
Steel Magnolias will be presented January 23 and 24, 2027, in the Pavilion at the Marion Palace Theatre.
The Pavilion provides an intimate setting for this character-driven production, bringing audiences close to the laughter, friendship, and heartfelt moments that have made Steel Magnolias a beloved theatrical classic.
Your Place in the Story Awaits!
Big personalities, sharp wit, and even bigger hearts are at the center of Steel Magnolias. If you've been looking for an opportunity to get involved in community theatre, this could be your moment!
For more information about auditions, contact the Marion Palace Theatre Box Office at 740-383-2101 or visit www.marionpalace.org.
Box Office hours are Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Saturday and Sunday.
