Set in America's Deep South, Robert Harling's true story about families, love and friendship was written in 1987 following the death of his beloved sister.

Adapted for the big screen in 1989, and with a memorable cast including Dolly Parton, Olympia Dukakis, Sally Field, Shirley Maclaine, Julia Roberts and Darryl Hannah, Steel Magnolias spoke a universal language. The movie grossed nearly $140 million dollars and 'Steel Magnolias' became an emotional touchstone for women around the world who identified with the lead characters and their experiences.

The stage version had its off-Broadway debut in 1987, not enjoying a full Broadway production until 2005. The theatre adaptation features just the six lead roles and the appeal of Steel Magnolias depends heavily on the abilities of those cast as beauty salon owner Truvy Jones, her clients, employees, friends and family.

The production for the show's first ever UK tour, boasts a strong sextet of women in the central roles. The cast includes former Eastender Kacey Ainsworth, experienced stage and TV star Isla Blair and Cheryl Campbell, most recently seen in Casualty. Making up the six are former Manageress and Strictly Come Dancing star Cherie Lunghi, Doctors regular Sadie Pickering and loose woman and former Corrie star Denise Welch.

All are familiar faces and each will hope to successfully recreate the warm, moving and funny poignancy of the famous film and its Southern belles.

The Steel Magnolias begin an extensive UK tour in Bath on 2nd April 2012, followed by a series of dates which includes, among others, Cardiff, Brighton, York and Richmond, before the final shows in Milton Keynes from 11th to 16th June 2012.

We have tickets available now for a selection of dates, priced from as little to £12.50 to £37.50 for the best seats, depending on venue.