STANDISH — Schoolhouse Arts Center will present “Steel Magnolias,” a comedy–drama about the bond between a group of women living in Louisiana, on April 13-29.

Robert Harling wrote the play based on his experience with the death of his sister. The title suggests the “female characters are as delicate as magnolias, but as tough as steel.”

The story, set mostly in Truvy’s beauty shop, begins on the morning of Shelby’s wedding to Jackson and covers events over the next three years, including Shelby’s decision to have a child despite having Type 1 diabetes. There is also a glimpse of the unlikely friendship between Clairee and Ouiser; Annelle’s transformation from a shy, anxious newcomer in town to a good-time girl and then to a revival-tent Christian; and Truvy’s relationships with the men in her family.

Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. April 13, 14, 20, 21, 27 and 28; and at  2 p.m. April 15, 22 and 29.  Tickets are $14 for adults, $12 for students and seniors.  Schoolhouse Arts Center is at 16 Richville Road, just north of Routes 114 and 35.  For tickets, call 642-3743 or visit www.schoolhousearts.org.