Stephen F. Austin State University

NACOGDOCHES, TEXAS - Before the unconventional teachers portrayed in "Dead Poets Society" (1989) and "Mona Lisa Smile" (2003) graced the screen, there was the controversial Miss Jean Brodie of Muriel Spark's 1961 novel, "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie."

The novel's lead character is a teacher at a conservative Edinburgh, Scotland, girls' school of the 1930s determined to instill in her students the value of art, passion and daring. Her efforts are met with opposition, however, and as with Robin Williams and Julia Roberts' characters, she is found unsuitable by the school's administration.

The Stephen F. Austin State University School of Theatre will present the stage adaptation at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 19, through Saturday, Feb. 23, in W.M. Turner Auditorium.

Native Texan Jay Presson Allen is responsible for bringing the acclaimed novel to the stage, explained Allen Oster, SFA professor of theatre and the play's director. The drama premiered on the London stage in 1966, starring Vanessa Redgrave.

Two years later, Zoe Caldwell received a Tony Award for playing the irrepressible teacher in Broadway's production, and Maggie Smith received an Academy Award for her portrayal in the 1969 film version, screenplay by Allen.

Oster said the play most definitely has relevance for today's audiences. "It covers a wide range of topics and issues that take place in an institution of learning where young minds are exposed to art, culture, beauty and politics."

Since the play incites discussions about what is right and what is wrong, it is traditionally classified as a morality play, Oster explained. "The audience is offered varied points of view--the children's, the teachers' and the administrator's--and from these viewers will pass judgment on several characters."

Oster has suggested a rating of PG for the production.

"The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" is a joint presentation of the SFA College of Fine Arts, the School of Theatre and the University Series. It is sponsored in part by Tipton Ford-Lincoln-Mercury of Nacogdoches.

Prior to the opening night performance, there will be an informative talk about the production at 7 p.m. in Griffith Gallery, across the hall from Turner Auditorium. The audience is invited back to the gallery after the performance for a reception and opportunity to meet the cast.

Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for seniors and $6 for students. For tickets or more information, please visit www.sfasu.edu/finearts or call (936) 468-6407 or (888) 240-ARTS.