The zany fun of the annual Freedonia Marxonia Marx Brothers Film Festival and Symposium returns to campus Saturday, April 24, from 1 to 5 p.m. in 105 Fenton Hall.
This year’s festival features a presentation by Marx Brothers aficionado Matthew Hahn, who is sponsoring this year’s event along with his wife, Cheri. Marx Brothers expert Paul Wesolowski will exhibit items from his extensive collection of memorabilia. Douglas Canham, ’87, a founding member of the festival and sponsor of the 2009 “rebirth” of Freedonia Marxonia, will also be on hand.
The 2010 festival will contain many surprises, but its traditional elements will remain, including the Marx Brothers contests. Cash prizes with be awarded for best-in-class original Marx works created by students, alumni and community members in three categories: short films (four minutes or less), art (any medium) and look-a-like efforts (individuals or groups).
Free “Groucho Glasses” will be distributed to all participants, “Duck Soup” and other Marx Brothers’ films will be shown, and a group photo will be taken of the attendees.
Freedonia Marxonia celebrates the unique link SUNY Fredonia has with the 1929 Marx Brothers film, “Duck Soup,” which takes place in a fictional country of Freedonia. In addition, there is a great deal of area folklore that suggests there is “more to the story.” To enjoy the fun of the legendary comedians — SUNY Fredonia style — make sure to visit campus April 24. To learn more, contact Karen West at westk@fredonia.edu.
