Humor, art and reality merge in the upcoming production of “Steel Magnolias,” a play set in a small-town Louisiana beauty parlor telling the story of Shelby, a young woman with diabetes. Based on the 1987 off-Broadway play written by Robert
Humor, art and reality merge in the upcoming production of “Steel Magnolias,” a play set in a small-town Louisiana beauty parlor telling the story of Shelby, a young woman with diabetes.
Based on the 1987 off-Broadway play written by Robert Harling, “Steel Magnolias” won the hearts of viewers when produced for film with an all-star female line-up that included Dolly Parton, Daryl Hannah, Shirley MacLaine and Julia Roberts.
“This is a story worth repeating,” director Bobbee Downs said.
As a Kaua‘i theater veteran, Downs was inspired to bring “Steel Magnolias” to the stage for personal reasons.
“I was motivated to do this play for one of my students, Nalani Haviland,” she said.
Haviland was diagnosed with juvenile diabetes when she was 8 years old. Downs remembers receiving the news just days before she and some of her students were departing for Europe to perform.
“We went to the hospital to sing to Nalani and the whole floor was in tears. It’s one of those moments you never forget,” Downs said.
At the center of “Steel Magnolias” is the story of Shelby, played by Jennifer Downs, as she struggles with type one diabetes.
Downs hopes to raise awareness of the disease and also honor the dynamic and courageous journey of her former student. Downs remembers how Haviland blossomed after what to some would be dire news.
“After she was diagnosed she became really forthcoming and willing to stand up in front of a group. It gave her this amazing voice.”
Now a sophomore at Chapman College, Haviland is an accomplished volleyball player and advocate of diabetes education. In a phone interview she said she is studying health science and plans to become a diabetes educator.
“I love talking about it,” she said.
According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation Website diabetes describes disorders in which the body struggles to regulate blood sugar levels. Type one diabetes, called juvenile diabetes, is a disorder of the immune system that occurs when the immune system attacks and destroys certain cells in the pancreas. When these cells are destroyed no insulin can be produced and the sugar stays in the blood where it can cause serious damage to all the organ systems.
“Living with juvenile diabetes means I have to test my blood sugar about 10 times a day,” Haviland said. Testing requires pricking her finger. During volleyball season the usual six tests a day increases by four due to the physical rigors of a competitive sport.
Not one to be discouraged, Haviland embraces the regimen.
“I decide whether or not it slows me down,” she said. “And it doesn’t. It’s a lifestyle. I can’t imagine life without it.”
Directing “Steel Magnolias” has been both a tribute to her student and a period of personal growth for herself, Downs said.
“My prior life as a director was as a dictator,” Downs confessed. “This is the most collaborative experience I’ve ever had.”
One reason is she once again is directing daughter, Jennifer, who is now a seasoned director and actress herself. Jennifer Downs is the artistic director of Hawai‘i Children’s Theatre, Summer Stars program as well as a familiar presence on stage.
This comedy-drama opens tonight at the KAPA Warehouse Theatre in Puhi starring Jennifer Downs as Shelby; Laurie Aguayo as M’Lynn, Shelby’s mother; Lolli Hagen, as feisty Ouiser; Susan LeHoven, as Annelle; Emma Palumbo, as Truvy, the beauty shop owner and Mary Ellen Kopitzke as Claree, the former first lady of Chinquapin Parish. Assistant director is Megan Ross and Jasmine Libert as cast understudy. This is a collaborative production by Events Kaua‘i and Hawai‘i Children’s Theatre.
Downs praises her six actresses as “a luminous combination.”
“It’s truly bringing a community of six women together who show their caring, loving side,” she said. “There’s tragedy, but also amazing, witty repartee between the characters. It runs the emotional gamut.”
The show runs weekends through Jan. 31. Tickets are $20; $19 group (more than 10); $15, students (18 and younger). Not recommended for under age 12.
Call the HCT hotline to reserve a seat. Leave a name and phone number and you will be contacted within two days. The cast will have a small number of tickets available for the first two weekends.
For more information call, 246-8985 or e-mail hawaiichildren’stheatre.com.
Want to go?
What: ‘Steel Magnolias’
When: 7 p.m. today, Saturday; 4 p.m. Sunday through Jan. 31
Where: KAPA Warehouse Theatre, Puhi
Cost: $20, call to reserve, 246-8985
•Pam Woolway, lifestyle writer, can be reached at 245-3681, ext. 257 or pwoolway@kauaipubco.com.
