Play shares the tragedies, triumphs of six friends

The Flathead High School Theatre Department will present "Steel Magnolias" by Robert Harling February 17-19 at 7 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theatre.

"Steel Magnolias," made popular by the 1990 movie, takes a hilarious and touching look into the lives and friendships of six southern women.

"Steel Magnolias" focuses on these women as individuals exploring their relationships as they cope with the triumphs and tragedies of life. These women stick with each other through everything, and when the going gets rough, they are always there to give each other love and support and to help each other make it through.

"Together, they truly represent the strength of the six-petaled magnolia," said director Wendy Kreis. "And just as the flower grows more beautiful and fragrant as it matures, so do these women."

"These women are very witty, intelligent, and very funny. Wisecracks, yelling, gossip, and laughter are not uncommon in this beauty shop which is home to six of the closest friends you'll ever find," said Laura Kleist, who plays Ouiser. "You just have to fall in love with the women in this play. They have such amazing personalities, and the bonds they have with each other are absolutely unbreakable. They are family."

The cast of "Steel Magnolias" includes Emmalee McLellan as Truvy, Rachel Heider as Annelle, Terra Marotz as Clairee, Clair Graham as Shelby, Chelsea Eickert as M'Lynn, Kleist and Evan Scott as the DJ Voice.

Behind the scenes, Evan Scott, Laramy Applecamp, Eric Fulton, Kelsi Steele, Bridget Kelly, Evan Tice, Holly White, and Natasha Eickert make up the stage, lighting and sound crew.

Tickets are available at Herberger's and the high school main office and are priced at $6 for adults and $5 for children, students and senior citizens.

photo 3118 & 3119-- Clair Graham as Shelby (in curlers) and Emmalee

McLellan as Truvy (pink shirt)

photo 3129-- Clair Graham as Shelby (in chair), Terra Marotz as Clairee (with brown purse), Laura Kleist as Ouiser (loud dress), Emmalee McLellan as Truvy (pink) and Rachel Heider as Annelle (grey cardigan)