Capsule Stage Reviews: KOOZA, Life Could Be a Dream, The Lion King, Steel Magnolias, The Wrong Side of the Law

Steel Magnolias This comedic drama portrays Southern women as wittier than the Algonquin Round Table and more warm-hearted than a petting zoo. The setting is a beauty shop, the former carport of Truvy, converted by her husband so she "could support him." Truvy hires the young Annelle as an assistant, and a controlling mother, M'Lynn, and her strong-willed daughter Shelby arrive for treatments; they are affluent, but the even wealthier Clairee enters, followed by Ouiser, self-described as "richer than God." What a cast it is — faster with a quip than a quick-draw artist, with big hair and personalities to match. The direction, by Stages Artistic Director Kenn McLaughlin, is virtually flawless, with a cast to match — ensemble acting of the first order, each character etched vividly yet integrated into the milieu of a small town. Playwright Robert Harling displays inventive brilliance in the sallies and adds drama, based on some medical difficulties of Shelby. Even here, the laughs are plentiful, and the theme of "smiling through the tears" is developed adroitly. Holland Vavra Peters plays Shelby and provides stunning beauty and a nuanced performance. Sally Edmundson plays M'Lynn and captures her nurturing needs and disappointment at her suggestions going unheeded. Susan Koosin is excellent as Ouiser, a straightforward, outspoken diamond in-the-rough personality. Genevieve Allenbury is equally good as Clairee, and Shelley Calene-Black finds Truvy's easy grace and warmth. Rachael Logue guides us through Annelle's transformation from ugly duckling to incipient swan. Superb comic timing allows the wit of Harling to shine in all its brilliance. Even if you've seen this comedic wonder, see it again, as the humor is fresh and timeless, the wit inventive and the characters so memorable that the mind will reel with pleasure.Through August 19, Stages Repertory Theatre, 3201 Allen Pkwy., 713-527-0123. — JJT

The Wrong Side of the Law Theatre Suburbia presents its annual summer "mellerdrammer," complete with boos and hisses, and yes, you are urged to toss popcorn at the actors. The set is the lobby and bar of a saloon/hotel, the time is 1908 and there are period costumes. A pair of evildoers arrive, garbed in black as though fresh from a vampire convention. There is a plot, but this vehicle is about fun, not suspense. The first act is slow, but the second act opens with warmth as the cast parades and sings two oldie songs. These actors are determined that you have a good time, and will stop at nothing. Donna Dixon acts as mistress of ceremony and also a telegraph operator, and she is excellent, as is Cory Grabenstein as the owner of the establishment. His mother is played by Susan O'Connor, who brings mature charm to the proceedings. The background piano music is ably provided by Alice Smith. There is a cast of 13, some of whom appear to be there to gain experience. Daniel Corrigan as the villain lacks menace and seems too aware that this is a spoof. The co-directors are Doris Merten and Haig Caesar, and they allow too much winking at the audience — it could be funnier if the actors stayed in character. The evening grinds to a halt whenever a character marches downstage to deliver an aside, then marches back to continue the play. What might have been amusing the first time becomes tedious a score of times, and the asides often fall flat. As "mellerdrammer" indicates, this is lighthearted summer fare — bring patience and a sense of humor — the popcorn can be purchased at the theater. Through August 25, 4106 Way Out West Dr., 713-682-3525. — JJT