The comical, informative and uplifting performance of “The Vagina Monologues” will be returning to the stage in Carson City for 2014. This controversial play was written in 1996 by Eve Ensler; a playwright, feminist, activist, performer, and artivist.
The monologues surround the main topic of women's issues but vary from stories of the various terms for the vagina, both consensual and non-consensual sexual encounters, discovering orgasms, finding beauty in the female form, and more.
The reoccurring message of the play circles around the power and uniqueness of women, calling out for all females to embrace their originality (with main references to the vagina). The production is a global phenomenon having originally ran at the Off Broadway Westside Theater in Manhattan, New York, as well as boasting multiple recitals with participation from well known celebrities such as Whoopi Goldberg and Melissa Etheridge.
Carson City was graced with a special one night only rendition of the Monologues last year on March 30th, 2013. This year three shows will be preformed at the Brewery Arts Center, adding two more nights to participate in the fun. Shows will be February 14th, 15th at 6pm, and a matinee on the 16th at 2pm. There will be a silent auction running before the show, merchandise, a food truck on the premises, and a photo booth.
Returning director and organizer Chris Rich has recruited many of last years cast members, which will allow the audiences to see some familiar faces. Community theater enthusiast Michelle Calhoun will once again appear as the Angry Vagina. Jocelyn Diaz, Whitney Kay, Lexi Brennecke, Emilee Riggin, Tamara Holmes, Elizabeth Contreras, and Annalize Sanders will reappear as well, all alongside some new cast members.
“I have lived in Carson City and been on stage in locals plays here for over 20 years,” Holmes said. “Of all the shows I have done, The Vagina Monologues has been the most moving and meaningful for me, by far.”
Since 1998 all performances have been accompanied by V-Day, an entirely non-profit movement. The V-Day movement has raised over $75 million for women's anti-violence groups such as Advocates to Stop Domestic Violence.
Whitney Kay, a survivor of violence in Carson City, wants her story to let others know they are not alone. “Violence of any kind, whether it be sexual, domestic, against women, against children, against men, cannot be tolerated. We are a small community, and we're also part of a larger world community, that are both plagued by incidents of violence that are not always reported, not always known, and some of which could have been avoided with proper awareness and education.”
All proceeds to the Carson City Vagina Monologues will solely benefit Advocates to Stop Domestic Violence. Tickets are available at the local Classy Seconds or the Brewery Arts Center. For show times, packages, and further information, go here.