Banshees bring banter back to Brendle
By Taylor Kennamer
Assistant Arts and Entertainment Editor

The semester is finally winding down, and with only a couple of days to go before finals, everyone knows the drill: pull a few all-nighters, scramble madly to finish that European history paper, move your sleeping bag to the sixth floor of the library, and start main-lining lattes from Shorty’s. But in the middle of all the stress, don’t forget to take a break and check out the Lilting Banshees’ “In Search of a Corner X,” which is another university tradition that’s just as much a part of the holiday season as Christmas shopping and chugging eggnog.

“It’s a good study break,” said senior Anita Woolley, the director of the troupe. “It’s all in fun.”

Now in their 10th year, the Banshees still haven’t run out of corners to find or outrageous sketches to perform. “This is somewhat of a milestone for us,” Woolley said. “We’ve come a long way and there are several alumni returning for the show.”

The ranks of the university’s own comedy troupe now include 20 members, five of whom joined the group this semester, and a stage manager, senior Aaron Bokros. The Banshees say they spent more time than usual writing the skits to be performed in this week’s show, and are proud of the results. They are striving to preserve their reputation for merciless comedy, which involves more work than one might imagine. Sinnin’ ain’t easy, to borrow a line, and the group has been having three-hour rehearsals six nights a week for the last six weeks.

Woolley stated that “In Search of a Corner X” has more continuity than past shows, but the Banshees’ trademark random humor has been preserved.

As usual, the show isn’t for the weak of heart or stomach; with the Banshees, nothing is sacred.

“Hints for the show? Everyone’s favorite returning characters plus a host of memorable new ones, lots of music, a little choreography, pyro, porno and audience participation,” Woolley said.

Does this mean that we’ll get to see another hilarious Maya Angelou imitation? Will “Chaplain Christman” be making a return appearance? What about that mysterious Lexus-driving stalker?

Students can expect to see the perennial sorority and fraternity parodies, of course, and no-holds-barred ridicule of the university’s Abercrombie & Fitch stereotype. No one’s telling any secrets, but there have been hints that some type of animal will make an appearance onstage.

The Banshees will be performing Dec. 7 and 8 in the Brendle Recital Hall. The debauchery starts at midnight. Tickets are $3 on a first-come, first-serve basis, so come early to be sure you’ll have a seat. Come early anyway to see the infamous slide show. is optional.