This Valentine’s Day, there was a lot of talk about vaginas. In a series of monologues ranging from hilarious to heartbreaking, Eve Ensler’s “The Vagina Monologues” gave students a lot to think about. Directed by senior Christina Mortellaro and assistant-directed by senior Jane Coons, the show ran from Thursday Feb. 12––Saturday Feb. 14 at the Knight Spot and was sponsored by the Women’s Action Coalition.
“The Vagina Monologues” is a series of stories told through the interviews of women of all ages and backgrounds. Each interview discusses the women’s relationships with their bodies and sexuality. The topics vary from topical subjects such as tampons to heavy themes including sexual assault and abuse. The ultimate goal of each of the monologues is to empower women by chipping away at the taboo surrounding female anatomy.
Each actress performed with passion and confidence. In a play full of sensitive and difficult topics, the portrayals of each woman’s story were informative and thought-provoking.
What made this incarnation of the show unique were the backgrounds of the actresses themselves. Many of the women had never acted before, but it wasn’t evident in their performances. They were brought together by the power of these stories rather than by the simple desire to act.
First-time actress junior Beth Wrisley performed in a monologue called “My Angry Vagina.” The monologue discussed the uncomfortable things women have dealt with daily, including tampons, thongs and visits to the gynecologist. Wrisley explained that she saw the show during her sophomore year and was immediately intrigued. “The monologue that really struck me was the monologue I ended up doing … I [thought], that is the most amazing, empowering thing I’ve ever seen,” Wrisley said.
The most important aspect of this show is the underlying theme of female empowerment. By discussing issues that nearly all women have faced at some point in their lives, it helps to erode the uncertainty and discomfort some women feel regarding their own personal experiences. “I like that it’s not just one woman’s story,” Wrisley said. “Every [woman who] goes to the show can probably relate to at least one of the stories.”
Each time the show is performed, the selection of monologues is different—although some, including “My Angry Vagina,” are staples. Introduced this year was “My Short Skirt,” performed by senior Trish Fogarty. The monologue discussed the idea that attire is never an excuse for sexual assault. The story felt extremely relevant in a society that still victim-blames and shames women for wearing what they want.
The stories were, at times, hard to hear––the actresses discussed subjects that can be extremely traumatic and difficult to talk about. This play, however, attempted to remove the stigma from these subjects and create an open discussion. The atmosphere at the beginning of the show was slightly uncomfortable; the audience seemed on edge. As the play progressed, however, a bond was seemingly formed as audience members shared laughs as well as a few tears.
“The Vagina Monologues” is an important tradition at Geneseo. The show appeals to a broad audience and allows women to have their stories heard. Regardless of their gender, all students can appreciate the raw emotion and passion each actress brings to the stage.