As the curtain rises on a new year, Fairhope-based Theatre 98 prepares for their first show of the season with "Steel Magnolias," which inspired the 1989 film of the same name starring Sally Field, Julia Roberts and Dolly Parton.

The show takes place in a small-town beauty salon and tells the story of Annelle, Truvy, Ouiser, Clairee, M'Lynn and Shelby, who encounter the sudden realization of how their mortality affects the others and also draws on the underlying themes of strength and love.

"I have been wanting to direct this show since 1990 or so," Director Richard Foster said. "A friend directed it, and my high school did it. I have always wanted to put my own spin on it, and I finally have the opportunity."

Foster said what makes the show special is the intimate cast of just six women, which allows for an emotionally moving performance.

"The show is based on a true story. Robert Harling wrote it about his mother and sister. He wanted his nephew to know who his mother was," Foster said. "There are six women in the cast, and watching these women become the characters and seeing them stretch their comfort zones to make the characters come to life has been special."

Although the movie premiered over 30 years ago, Foster said audience members can still expect a fresh spin on the classic story.

"Our entire show takes place in Truvy's beauty shop, and the women are the only characters we see," Foster said. "I think the movie was very close to the stage show with changes to bring in male characters, but I think the audience will still have all the same feelings that the movie evoked."

Foster said he is most excited for the community to experience the fruition of the cast's hard work.

"I'm most excited for the audiences to see the women. This is such a magical moving story, and it's been a fun process," Foster said. "I can't wait for our audiences to see the final product. I'm sure they can relate to one or more of the characters, and I hope they take away the importance of friendship."

For more information on ticketing, visit www.theatre98.org or call the box office at (251) 928-4366.