Patricia Hetland first graced the MPT stage 30 years ago in City of Angels, and has been an important part of our creative team ever since. This fall she plays the nosey and well-to-do Clairee in Steel Magnolias!

Describe your character in three words. What has been fun/exciting/challenging about playing her?

I need seven words to describe Clairee: quick-witted, warm-heartedly generous, fiercely loyal. I am most excited to tell this story with my talented friends.

Truvys is a place where these characters can match wits and build community with each other. Did/do you have a place like Truvy's in your life? What makes it special?

I find the atmosphere of a rehearsal room to be supportive, collaborative, and satisfying. But I think my house/yard/pool have also built quite a community. ;)

Shelby's colors are Blush and Bashful, M'lynns are peach and cream. What are yours?

Royal purple and midnight black

Which Steel Magnolias meal sounds most appealing: Ouiser's Shrimp pies, Truvys Strawberry pie, Clairee's Cuppa Cuppa Cuppa (cuppa flour, cuppa suger, cuppa fruit cocktail), or the cake shaped like an armadillo?

Truvy’s Strawberry Pie for breakfast, a finger-full of gray armadillo icing as an afternoon treat, Ouiser’s Shrimp Pies for supper, and Shelby’s white chocolate cherry mini cheesecakes for dessert.

Steel Magnolias is a staple of American theatre. What does this story mean to you?

My family has a very personal connection to the phrase, “Normality is very important to Shelby.”

What do you think audiences will like about Steel Magnolias?

Its heart, heart, heart! And Isabel is cute as a button.

Don’t miss Patricia onstage in Steel Magnolias September 13-21! Tickets are on sale now at www.middletonplayers.com/tickets.