A Melbourne theatre review by Alex FirstJulia Roberts received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Shelby Eatenton in the 1989 film Steel Magnolias. Doing their hair and nails is all but an excuse to come together and share their personal news and views. The title of the play is drawn from the strength, beauty and fragility in the words steel and magnolias. On a broader scale, I immediately warmed to the busy salon set, which is a mainstay of the production, as well as the colourful attire of the cast. Also slick is the composition and sound design of Brady Watkins, while the ambiance is captured with Paul Jackson’s lighting design.