Auditions for Steel Magnolias (staged reading)

Set in a small-town Louisiana beauty salon, Steel Magnolias is a heartfelt comedy-drama that centers on six strong, complex Southern women. The play relies on rich dialogue, emotional authenticity, and strong ensemble chemistry. All roles are female-identifying and offer meaningful arcs, blending humor with deep emotional resonance.

Characters:

• Truvy Jones – 40s. The upbeat, warm-hearted owner of the beauty salon. A constant optimist who finds the silver lining in everything. Excellent comedic timing and warmth are essential.
• Annelle Dupuy-Desoto – 18–25. New to town and nervous, she transforms over time from shy and awkward to deeply religious and confident. A character with a strong arc.
• Clairee Belcher – 50s–70s. The sharp-tongued but lovable widow of the former mayor. Witty, stylish, and always ready with a one-liner. Requires strong comic delivery.
• Shelby Eatenton-Latcherie – 20s. A spirited and strong-willed young woman with type 1 diabetes. Her charm, humor, and resilience make her the emotional center of the play.
• M’Lynn Eatenton – 40s–50s. Shelby’s protective mother, practical and composed—until she isn’t. Requires emotional range for one of the most powerful monologues in contemporary theater.
• Ouiser Boudreaux – 50s–70s. Tough, sarcastic, and unapologetically blunt, but with a deep capacity for love. A comedic powerhouse with hidden depth.