A Slice of Life on the Bayou

Popular entertainment has led us to believe that everyone who lives in Louisiana is either a sweaty politician, an abusive drunk factory worker, a romantic but aggressive vampire, a wacky superhero, or a no-nonsense Starfleet captain. It's also common pop culture knowledge that everyone in Louisiana lives in New Orleans and has a thick Cajun drawl. But we are better people than that and don't reduce an entire state to such derivative stereotypes. At least, I feel that you are a better person than that. On the other hand, sometimes derivative stereotypes are hilarious. Then again, making these assumptions would be no better than saying everyone from Illinois sounds like the Superfans and eats nothing but Italian beef and Polish sausage. So let's take a few paragraphs of your day to discuss the Pelican State.

Now, I realize that northwest Louisiana is not actually considered part of the bayou proper, but my false claim probably got you to read my article! It is more than 300 miles from New Orleans to Shreveport and this gives the state a surprisingly diverse spread of ecosystems from north to south and a similar spread of people and cultures. More than any other state, the cuisine, government, and culture in Louisiana is heavily influenced by the French settlers who controlled the region for nearly 150 years.

This French influence is reflected heavily in Louisianan film and literature. I was aware of some of the famous American works of fiction set in Louisiana such as A Streetcar Named Desire, but I was surprised to learn that the Anne Rice Vampire Chronicles novels were set in Louisiana as well. Even some works of historical fiction are based on events in Louisiana: All the King's Men and JFK. Of course, even popular films like The Princess and the Frog and The Waterboy are set in Louisiana. While each of these have different settings, narratives, and plot devices, the strength of all are their distinctive characters. Steel Magnolias exemplifies this tradition with a cast of entirely unforgettable characters.

The tight-knit cast in director Tyler McMahon's vision of Steel Magnolias brings these characters to life. KVTA's Black Box Theatre is a perfectly intimate stage for you to become immersed each of these hilarious and poignant conversations. While you will hear and see some of the obvious stereotypes, this performance will show you what true Louisianan culture is. Each actress in this performance pours her own lifetime of experiences into her character, bringing you into their lives and trials that transcend generations. Be ready to laugh and cry on January 31 and February 1 and 2 in KVTA's Black Box Theatre. Tickets are going fast, so get yours now.