Synopsis
The Southwest Corner
John Cecil Holm From Mildred Walker
Published by Dramatists Play Service
3 Male 4 Female
In reply to an advertisement she has put in a newspaper, Bea Cannon turns up. Bea is a widow, energetic, talkative and the kind of person who takes over wherever she finds herself
Marcia agrees to take Bea as her companion, signing a will in which she leaves her house and all its antique furnishings to Bea in return for Bea's care as long as Marcia lives
No sooner is Bea settled into Marcia's home than her true nature appears. She's not actively unkind or selfish - but being insensitive she can be almost more cruel. Bea can understand only her own kind of life - one which centered around confession magazines, television and gossiping with the neighbors
Since none of these things are available in Marcia's home, Bea starts a campaign to get Marcia to sell her farm and move to the city. Marcia, who is too gentle to withstand Bea's forceful determination, grows more and more unhappy and finally gives in to the point where she agrees to auction off the house and its furnishings
We know that Marcia's life, away from the place and things she loves, will be very short but it seems there is nothing to be done. Until, at the last moment, during the auction itself, something happens which saves Marcia's home and provides her with delightful companions - a young couple who are planning to marry, and who will live in Marcia's home with her
"There is a great deal of charm in a sentimental comedy called The Southwest Corner which opened last evening There also is humor of a gentle and whimsical sort" ~ NY News