Steel Magnolias touring to His Majesty’s Theatre starring Perth-raised Gold Logie winner Lisa McCune

Perth-raised leading lady of stage and screen Lisa McCune was the youngest cast member the last time she was part of an all-women production. The experience proved a masterclass on many levels, so the opportunity to again work with a multi-generational female cast was of great interest to McCune when conversations started about a new Australian production of Steel Magnolias coming to the stage in 2026. Touring to His Majesty’s Theatre in July, Steel Magnolias will feature WA Academy of Performing Arts alumna McCune alongside Debra Lawrance, Belinda Giblin, Mandy Bishop, Jessica Redmayne and Lotte Beckett. “Steel Magnolias is a story that found a worldwide audience with the wonderful film starring some of Hollywood’s most beloved actresses,” Gold Logie winner McCune said, referencing the 1989 film. “What people may not know is it existed first as a play, and I’m excited to be joining a magnificent Australian cast to bring this poignant, funny and eternally endearing story to Perth audiences in 2026.” Set in a small-town Louisiana beauty salon, Robert Harling’s play follows the joy, struggles and gossip of local women before tragedy strikes. McCune said it centred on relationships, friendships, family and community, where the collective of characters was a gift for performers. “It is simply structured and uncomplicated, which I think gives space for the audience to enjoy the story and invest in the lives of the women,” McCune said. “I play M’Lynn, immortalised by the brilliant Sally Field in the film version. She is a wife and a mother who faces some tough realities.” Steel Magnolias is at His Majesty’s Theatre, Perth, July 7 to 18. Tickets at artsculturetrust.wa.gov.au.