Passing In Review

By LEE NICHOLSON

Although faculty members may rise in indignation at the horrid thought, "Alien Corn" might have been written about this campus instead of about Conway College for Women.

Faculty members and students at the premiere last night showed their recognition of faculty situations and characters by their laughter and appreciation.

But the play is far more than a satirical mockery of faculty life.  It has action, a plot and a swift climax that is breathtaking, especially to those who are scared of guns.

Two performances stand head and shoulders above the others.

Clarence Talbot is a perfect Ottokar Brandt, the old, paralyzed violinist.  His German ravings and his characterization of the broken artist have authenticity and finish.  His performance never sags.

Frances Farmer plays the piano beautifully, speaks German fluently, acts convincingly and wears her clothes stunningly as Elsa Brandt, the instructor and musical genius.

Wilbur Sparrow was smooth and polished as the Babbitty college president, but he would have been more impressive if he were a little more "tall, dark and handsome."

Other characterizations were well handled.

Robert Mayberry as the cynical newspaperman.  James Gentry as the erotic weakling.  Eileen Detchon, who "was the daughter of a professor, and married a professor."  Edwin Nelson as the smug and insensitive department head, and Helen Rosen as the amateur songstress were all interesting characters.