This is a poignant comedy-drama set in small town Southern America, about the bond among a group of women in Northwest Louisiana.

All of the action revolves around Truvy's beauty salon in a small parish in modern day Louisiana. It is the story of a close-knit circle of female friends whose lives come together there. In the haven of Truvy's salon, these six very different women share their secrets and bare their souls, throwing in a little neighbourly gossip for good measure.

The drama begins on the morning of Shelby's wedding to Jackson and covers events over the next year, including Shelby's decision to have a child despite having Type 1 diabetes and the complications that result from the decision.

We also get a glimpse of the unlikely friendship between Claire and Ouiser; Annelle's transformation from a shy, anxious newcomer in town, to a partying woman, then to a religious fundamentalist; and Truvy's relationships with the men in her family. Although the main storyline involves Shelby's will to have a baby despite being warned against it, and her mother M'lynn's consternation to this, the underlying group-friendship among all six women is prominent throughout the drama.

Steel Magnolias is a quintessential story of friendship, and serves up a slice of life in Louisiana that is warm and comforting. From weddings to divorces, babies to funerals, new beginnings to happy endings, the six women weather every event in their lives en masse with grace, determination, and perfectly coifed hair. When tragedy strikes, it is in the familiar comfort of Truvy's salon where they seek the solace and support that carries them through - when times get tough, women know how to be there for each other.

"a finely constructed piece of theatre, as resilient, as funny, as moving and as bracing as its marvellous title characters"

"Robert Harling's enduring comedy is a heartfelt celebration of love, loyalty, and the bonds of sisterhood"

Steel Magnolias will be performed for three nights only on Thursday 17 July, Friday 18 July and Saturday 19 July 2008 at 7.30pm, Pentyrch Village Hall (doors open 7:00pm). To book your tickets (£6.50 adults, £5.00 concessions), please phone the box office on 029 20 891 528. You can also buy tickets on the door.