If there is one word that I would use to describe The Vagina Monologues, it would be “uninhibited.” But that, I think, is the point of the entire show.
The stage was stark. The backdrop was black and, for much of the show, a stool served as the only prop on the stage. The lighting was fairly simple, and the actors all wore black and red. There was absolutely nothing to take your attention away from the message of the show, which was more than enough to command the audience’s attention.
While the show is called The Vagina Monologues, its focus is not just about female anatomy. Of course, there were a few monologues that focused on things like hair and just being comfortable with the organ that really sets women apart. Instead, much of the show was about the abuse that women have to deal with and how they’re not comfortable with themselves. Women of all ages and races were included in the show: it really was about every woman.
There were some moments when it seemed that men were being made out to be the worst evil that could exist on the planet and I became a little weary that this might become a man-bashing show very early on. While the beginning did have a little of it, but later on there was a chance for the men to speak out as well.
The real purpose of the show was to celebrate women and to increase awareness of the issues they have to face, regardless of whether men are being jerks. I think that point did end up coming across very well.
Some very serious issues were broached: rape (as a war tactic no less), genital mutilation, domestic abuse, oppression of women in foreign countries. The images painted by each of these monologues are at once sickening and infuriating.
Of all the monologues, I have to say that “The Woman Who Loved to Make Vaginas Happy” stood out the most. There was a lot of energy in the performance, and it was very lighthearted in general. Of the more serious ones, I think that “My Vagina Was My Village” was the most powerful monologue of all. I was very surprised at the inclusion of “The Penis Perspective,” done entirely by men, about what it would be like if there was no more violence against women.
I have to say, all of the women (and men) who were on stage did a phenomenal job, as did everyone behind the scenes. Members of the Interfraternity Council helped out as well. It was very obvious that a lot of work went into the show, which was for a worthy cause. All the proceeds from the show went to Sexual Assault Crisis Center of Rensselaer County and Students Active for Ending Rape.
While this show only ran for one night, if you ever get another opportunity to see the show, I would recommend taking it.
