Over 30 years have passed since Steel Magnolias made its debut off-Broadway, inspiring the iconic film of the same name. As we reflect on this milestone, Southern Living caught up with writer Robert Harling to delve into the enduring legacy of this poignant story, which has touched the hearts of audiences for decades.
Steel Magnolias began as a labor of love for Harling, who wrote the play in memory of his sister, Susan. Growing up in Natchitoches, Louisiana, the oldest settlement from the Louisiana Purchase, Harling was the oldest of three siblings. His sister Susan’s life was marked by her battle with type 1 diabetes. Despite medical warnings, Susan chose to start a family, giving birth to a baby boy in 1983. However, her health quickly deteriorated, and after a failed kidney transplant and dialysis, she passed away during a minor surgery in 1985 at the age of 33. Harling, fearing that his young nephew would never truly know his mother, decided to write her story. “All I wanted to do was have somebody remember her,” Harling shared.
Harling initially envisioned the tale as a short story, but soon realized that dialogue suited him better as an actor. The result was Steel Magnolias, a play that captures the wit and resilience of the women in Harling’s community. The title itself, although not explicitly explained in the play or film, perfectly encapsulates the juxtaposition of strength and fragility that Harling observed in Southern women. “My mother would always say to handle magnolia blossoms carefully because they bruise so easily. You think of this flower that is so delicate and has to be handled with care, but is actually made of much stronger stuff,” he explained.
The play was originally intended to be a tragedy, but as Harling and his cast, including his friend Margo Martindale, rehearsed, they realized that the sharp, witty dialogue brought humor to the story, making it both a comedy and a drama. This blend of emotions resonated with audiences and critics alike, leading to countless stage renditions across the globe and a successful film adaptation in 1989, starring Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Daryl Hannah, and Dolly Parton.
Harling’s work has not only immortalized his sister’s story but has also transformed his hometown of Natchitoches into a tourist destination. The film’s success drew visitors eager to see the locations where the movie was shot, and today, Steel Magnolias-themed bed and breakfasts and tours remain popular attractions. “My sister would love the idea that people are coming to her beloved hometown because of her story,” Harling said.
Harling’s ultimate goal was to ensure that Susan’s son would understand the impact his mother had on the world. Now in his mid-30s, Susan’s son has come to appreciate the legacy his mother left behind. “He knew she was so special that it took the biggest star in the world to play her,” Harling said, referring to Julia Roberts’ portrayal of his sister.
After more than three decades, Steel Magnolias continues to resonate with audiences around the world, proving that the themes of love, loss, and resilience are truly universal. Harling recently attended a French production of the play, where he witnessed the audience laugh and cry at the story of a small town in Louisiana, reminding him once again of the power of his sister’s story.
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