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(Eloise Ullman, Jane Squier Bruns, and
Stacey Fearheiley)
I sat in the back, rather alone, in the
pitch black that comes over the Rehoboth Beach Convention Center when it
is set up exactly right for a dramatic performance. Perhaps that was the
perfect scenario for my virgin viewing of The Vagina Monologues. Maybe
that was the way it was supposed to be. Maybe we all need more time alone
when we consider the monumental decisions we make related to our bodies
and lives. I, for one, believe I have made some good ones and I am
searching for the strength to admit all of my less visible bad ones.
Little I have learned so far in life quite imparted the importance of
conducting such an intensely personal audit as did listening to the
Monologues. Thankfully, just when I felt I might think myself into
oblivion the mood got considerably lighter owing to the ridiculously
insightful comedy penned into the script by lauded playwright Eve Ensler.
Throw in an impeccable—yes, I’ll swear to it impeccable—cast of
three women assembled by director Fay Jacobs and the Monologues became a
celebration. Jacobs called it electric and I have to agree. As actresses,
Jane Squier Bruns, Stacey Fearheiley and Eloise Ullman made magic out of a
play of nearly two hours dedicated to the body part that dare not speak
its name. It would be impossible to say which woman stole the show, it was
like watching a grown- up game of hot potato. Throughout the show I
repeatedly thought, "That was the best one." And, every time,
yet another amazing piece and performance would come along. I will,
however, give Stacey individual props for the bravery to take on the
orgasmic moaning scene so, so, so—how shall I say—convincingly. Meg
Ryan has nothing on you. Speaking of big stars, this is a show that has
been performed by the likes of Jane Fonda, Oprah Winfrey and Melissa
Etheridge. It is important. It is sacred and profane, humorous and
heartbreaking and I thank CAMP and Fay J Productions for delivering it to
Rehoboth so well. As the actresses agreed, Ensler’s exhaustive and
intriguing exploration of women’s most private possession makes for
amazing theater. "This is not the same as playing a role. You feel
more as if you and the audience are partners in an experience," said
Bruns. Critics have called the The Vagina Monologues a rollercoaster ride
but I found it to be more like a Ferris wheel. Calmer, taking you through
the highs and lows of female sexuality with the perfect symmetry of a
circle. Included are difficult realities of rape, the potentially
embarrassing realities of eroticism, and the undeniable miracle of birth.
Radical feminism and shy personal feminine reflections share the stage in
a respectful and unforgettable way. There is a reason this play has been
translated into 35 languages and raised awareness and millions of dollars
worldwide in the interest of ending violence against women and girls. The
two Rehoboth performances raised funds for the V-Day organization which
supports education and anti-violence groups globally. Additional funds
will support CAMP’s anti-violence program which is partnering with local
organizations such as People’s Place Women in Transition. That makes me
feel even stronger about having shared in this experience but in the end I
can only walk away with my personal experience. So, in answer to one of
Ensler’s most piercing questions, mine wears a short denim skirt and it
is all mine.
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