Holly-Anne Ruggiero (White Noise, Jersey Boys) directs the poignant Louisiana-set comedy that will run through Feb. 6.

Ackerman (Evita, Cats, The Magic Show) portrays M'Lynn alongside Leslie Castay (Threepenny Opera, Guys and Dolls) as Truvy, Janet Shea as Ouiser, Cathie Choppin as Clairee, Ashley Ricord as Shelby and Becca Chapman as Annelle.

According to Le Petit, "Set in a local beauty shop in the fantastically colorful 1980s, Steel Magnolias explores the bonds of six gorgeously complicated women living in Northern Louisiana. Through laughter and tears, Steel Magnolias touches upon matters of love, apathy, pain, loss, secrecy and each woman's desperate attempt at living a life of happiness no matter what the odds."

The production has scenic design by Michael Kramer, lighting by Joyce Liao, costumes by Oliver Manhattan, sound design by Walter Trarbach and original music by Ken Clifton.

Steel Magnolias premiered at the WPA Theatre in 1987 prior to transferring to the Lucille Lortel Theatre, where it ran for 1,126 performances. The 1989 movie adaptation starred Daryl Hannah, Dolly Parton, Olympia Dukakis, Shirley MacLaine, Sally Field and Julia Roberts. The 2005 Broadway production featured Tony winner Christine Ebersole, Delta Burke, Marsha Mason, Frances Sternhagen, Lily Rabe and Rebecca Gayheart. Le Petit, a New Orleans theatre staple for almost 100 years, recently played host to the premiere engagement of the Broadway-aimed musical White Noise. The season will continue with 13, [title of show], Grey Gardens and The Wedding Singer.

For tickets phone (504) 522-2081 or visit LePetitTheatre. The Le Petit Theatre du Vieux Carré is located at 616 Saint Peter Street in New Orleans, LA.