June 2006 Progress Report

Rehearsals are well under way for this year’s play, ‘Steel Magnolias’.

Helen Goudge, who makes her first appearance with Pilgrim plays the wonderfully exuberant Truvy, the beauty salon owner. In her converted garage she gives her local ladies the best hair-do in town, telling them that there is no such thing as natural beauty. Helen is also an accomplished jazz singer

As M’Lynn, one of the regulars at the hair salon and mother of the bride, Lynn Webster returns to Pilgrim after her award nomination performance in last year’s ‘Whale of August.’ This is a role that many actresses long for – funny and powerful with a final scene that reaches out and touches the heart.

Her daughter Shelby is played by Janelle Bish, another newcomer to Pilgrim. Janelle was spotted at a Dolphin play earlier this year by the director who approached her to audition. Janelle is certainly on her way to making herself one of Auckland’s more saught after performers.

Auditions are always surprising and this one was no exception. One of the hopefuls was Florencia Iriondo from Buenos Aires. Now living in Auckland, Florencia has experience in plays, musicals and film and brings her special talents to life as Annelle, the new hairdresser.

Susan Hargaves is a well known actress who has worked mainly with Titirangi Drama. Susan teaches speech and drama. The role of Clairee, wife of a popular ex mayor, is one that Susan is well able to portray. She is the perfect foil for June Britton a good friend, also from Titirangi who has been cast as Ousier, (short for Louisa) a feisty lady with plenty of money, a dog and no love of the arts.

Having all these wonderful ladies to work with has been a delight for director Bruce Weston. This is the first time Bruce has directed a full length play, finding it exciting and challenging. No stranger to acting, Bruce is using his wealth of experience to bring this worthwhile play to life.

The set is almost finished. Designer Peter Carr and Neil Lobb with the help of a Pilgrim friend, Glen Wallace, have worked hard to complete the set and are now putting the finishing touches – magnolia colours of course – on it.

Mary Boyd and Ryan Stevens are locating props and Neil and Kathy Lobb are preparing front of house rosters. Glenda Matchett is co-ordinating the publicity and would welcome any help or suggestions. Gwyneth Glover has the responsibility of costuming the play and Marion Neller is overseeing the programme.

Bookings will open soon and we expect them to be heavy for this immensely popular play. For any further information, give Bruce a call on 373-4507 during the day.