'Magnolias' bloom in U.K.

LONDON -- A new revival of Robert Harling's bittersweet comedy "Steel Magnolias" will tour the U.K. in a production helmed by David Gilmore ("Grease") and produced by David Ian Prods. ("Seminar," currently previewing on Broadway).Opening in Bath April 2, "Steel Magnolias" will hit Cardiff, Bradford, Nottingham, Brighton, York, Richmond, Birmingham and Southampton, ending Jun. 16 in Milton Keynes.The production, whose cast of legit and TV names includes Isla Blair, Cheryl Campbell and Cherie Lunghi, is believed to be eyeing a fall West End berth. Contact David Benedict at benedictdavid@mac.com