Holly-Anne Ruggiero (White Noise, Jersey Boys) directs the poignant Louisiana-set comedy that will run Jan. 21-Feb. 6.
Ackerman (Evita, Cats, The Magic Show) will be joined by Leslie Castay (Threepenny Opera, Guys and Dolls) Janet Shea, Cathie Choppin, Ashley Ricord and Becca Chapman.
According to Le Petit, "Set in a local beauty shop in the fantastically colorful 1980's, 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."
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.
