'Steel Magnolias' takes us back to Truvy's salon when it opens at Bristol Opera House

BRISTOL — “Steel Magnolias” opens May 12 and continues through May 21 at Elkhart Civic Theatre’s Bristol Opera House, 210 E. Vistula St.

In Chinquapin, La., all the upper crust ladies go to Truvy’s salon to have their hair done in Robert Harling’s 1987 comedy-drama.

Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle (who may be still married), the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to her patrons: rich curmudgeon Ouiser; eccentric millionaire Miss Clairee, who has a raging sweet tooth; and the local social leader, M’Lynn, whose daughter Shelby is about to marry a “good ole boy.”

Harling based the play on his family’s experience with the death of his sister, Susan Harling-Robinson, from diabetic complications.

Performances are at 7:30 p.m. May 12-13 and 19-20 and at 3 p.m. May 14 and 21.

Tickets are $25-$19.

For more information, call 574-848-4116 or visit elkhartcivictheatre.org.

This article originally appeared on South Bend Tribune: Elkhart Civic opens ‘Steel Magnolias’ at the Bristol Opera House