From press release

MOUNT CARROLL, Ill.—Timber Lake Playhouse (TLP), northwestern Illinois’ non-profit professional summer theater, continues its 49th season with the contemporary classic Steel Magnolias running June 17-26. The play tells the story of six southern friends who gather regularly at Truvy’s Beauty Shop. Over the months, the ties of these strong-willed women are tested by the joys and tragedies of family, friendships and growing older.

Guest Chuck Smith returns to TLP to direct the popular play. Smith is a resident director from Chicago’s Goodman Theatre who staged the recent TLP hits Lend Me A Tenor, Ain’t Misbehavin’ and Smokey Joe’s Café.

Steel Magnolias gained notoriety following the tremendously successful film adaption in 1989. With their memorable lines and delightful hairstyles, the women in the play are some of the most relatable characters in contemporary American theater. Steel Magnolias promises to be a highlight of the summer at TLP. The cast features three resident company members as well as guest performers Claudia C. Vasilovik of Chicago, Rebecca Leopold of Freeport and Judy Knudtson of Monroe, Wis. These talented women will bring the beloved story to life.

Following Steel Magnolias, TLP will present the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic Oklahoma!. As farmers and ranchers struggle for control of the Oklahoma Territory, two unlikely love stories emerge in this celebration of the American spirit. Artistic Director James Beaudry will team up with Broadway Choreographer Will Taylor to breathe new life into a charming audience favorite.

Curtains and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, two of Broadway’s newest smash musicals, are also on TLP’s lineup. A backstage murder mystery comedy that’s stuffed full of big dance numbers, Curtains is a “new, old-fashioned” musical from the writers of Chicago. The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee has charmed audiences around the country and was a surprise hit on Broadway, which prompted the New York Times to ask, “Can you spell I-R-R-E-S-I-S-T-I-B-L-E?” Acclaimed Quad Cities director Derek Bertelsen will stage the brilliantly funny farce, Love, Sex and the I.R.S., opening in July.

Many TLP performances are already selling out, so make reservations today! For $100, purchase a season subscription and guarantee your seats to all six main stage shows. Student subscriptions are $55. Group discounts are also available for groups of 12 or more.

To purchase tickets, order season subscriptions or place group reservations, call the TLP Box Office between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. at (815) 244-2035. Adult tickets are $20, all children and students are $11. Visit www.timberlakeplayhouse.org ^[1] for a list of specific show dates and times.