LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth |
The Vagina Monologues - A Celebration |
by Bridin Reynolds Hughes |
(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 impeccableyes, I'll swear to it impeccablecast 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, sohow shall I sayconvincingly. 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. |
LETTERS From CAMP Rehoboth, Vol. 15, No. 1February 11, 2005 |