Auditions for Steel Magnolias: The Marion Art Center has announced open auditions for all roles in the upcoming production of “Steel Magnolias,” written by Robert Harling and directed by Jennifer Palmer. Auditions will be held on Thursday, August 5, 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm, and Saturday, August 8, from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at the Marion Art Center located at 80 Pleasant Street in Marion. Due to the large cast, and to adhere to COVID restrictions, policies, and safety, only fully-vaccinated actors will be considered for roles in this production.
Synopsis: This beloved story about the bonds and strength through good times and not so good, is set in Truvy’s beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, where all the ladies who are “anybody” come to have their hair done. Helped by her eager new assistant, Annelle, the outspoken, wise-cracking Truvy dispenses shampoos and free advice to the town’s rich curmudgeon, Ouiser, an 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.” As the story proceeds through comedy and tragedy, we learn how these women have been each other’s strength through friendship and love.
To view the cast of characters and audition requirements, visit marionartcenter.org/events. Email Play Director Jennifer Palmer with any questions at jengpalmer@msn.com.
Call for Entries: Summer Members’ Show: The Marion Art Center is pleased to announce its upcoming Summer Members’ Show. Any current MAC member may enter up to two pieces for exhibit. Artists must schedule a time for drop off on Tuesday, August 3, between 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. All art must be original (of the artist’s own design and creation), must not have been previously shown at the MAC, and must be properly prepared for installation. The Marion Art Center will not exhibit works that are in poor condition (including frame). Show dates are August 6 – September 3, with an opening reception on Friday, August 6, from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
To exhibit, visit marionartcenter.org/on-exhibit to download the contract, submit images and the signed contract, and request an appointment through the easy-to-use online form. Alternatively, MAC member artists may request a contract and/or send all required documents by emailing info@marionartcenter.org with “Summer Members’ Show” in the subject line. Not yet a member? It’s easy to join online at marionartcenter.org/join!
MAC Theater presents Cedar Beach: The MAC Theater presents its second play of the 2021 season, “Cedar Beach,” written by local playwright Mark Howland and directed by John Heavey. The cast includes Jack Boesen, Heather Corrigan, Rick DaSilva, Michele Letourneau, Andrew Oliveira, Thom O’Shaughnessy, Susan Salvesen, Joanne Sherburne, Jacob Sherburne, Rick Sherburne, Gary Sousa, Susan Sullivan, Karrie Szatek, and Kim Teves. The MAC’s sound and lighting technician is Steve McManus.
Synopsis: Cedar Beach is about family and a family-owned property. Spanning several generations that covers 50 years, the play attempts to chronicle the history of a vacation home and the vicissitudes of the people who inhabit it. The action follows the lines of entropy, from order to disorder, simplicity to complexity, and tradition to innovation. As such, the home represents both the luxury of privilege and the burden of responsibility. The play is comprised of eight scenes that span from the mid 1950s to 2007.
This is the MAC’s third outdoor live theater event that will take place in Bicentennial Park, Marion, across the street from the MAC. Six show dates are scheduled August 21-22, 26-29. Thursday, Friday, and Saturday productions will begin at 5:00 pm, while Sunday matinees will begin at 2:00 pm. (Times are subject to change before opening week of the show.) A single rain date will be announced at a later date, and, in case of rain, guests may choose another date, donate tickets, or receive a refund only if the performance is cancelled. Guests should bring their own chairs. Tickets go on sale to MAC members ($18) in person or by phone starting Thursday, July 22. Tickets go on sale online and to nonmembers ($20) starting Thursday, July 29, at marionartcenter.org/events.