The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie by Jay Presson Allen challenges its audience to look beneath image and perception to find substance. Northern Kentucky University's department of theater and dance is currently presenting a satisfying production of the play.

Director Sandra Forman introduces Jean Brodie (Denise Devlin) as a vibrant rebel, full of passion and romance. Dressed in an almost seductive, form-fitting dress, she commands the attention of her students at the Marcia Blane School for Girls -- in addition to the audience -- in this intimate, black-box production.

At first, Brodie is charming and engaging. But gradually things turn dark as she manipulates men and her young students. She is "prime" in the classroom, the authority figure to the girls and the source of knowledge and romance. She wants to open their minds and free them from the bonds of convention.

With men, she uses her sexuality to get attention and gain control. As Brodie repeatedly runs afoul of the headmistress (wonderfully played by Hannah Dowdy), she sees her conflict as being a progressive in a conservative institution. But her glowing praise of Franco, Mussolini and Hitler indicates a deeper problem.

While not a flawless production (Scottish accents were inconsistent), the production features several sensitive and compelling performances. Devlin basks in Brodie's idealistic arrogance, believably self-absorbed while projecting her altruistic front. Her final scene with Sandy (the impeccable Emma Robertson) is as fine a piece of acting as you will see anywhere.

The evolution of character through the evening by Robertson and Devlin sets the stage for this pivotal scene. Robertson also has a remarkably sensual and natural encounter in a studio with art teacher Teddy Lloyd (John Scheller).

Abigail Drake's costumes are at their best with Brodie. Her dresses become less and less hot as the play proceeds, increasingly downplaying her curves. It's a subtle indication that Miss Jean Brodie has moved out of her prime. Grade: B-

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THE PRIME OF MISS JEAN BRODIE, presented by Northern Kentucky University, continues through Sunday at the Rosemary Stauss Theatre.