Five years ago, in the basement of a New York City cafe, “The Vagina Monologues” graced the stage for the first time.
And now the show has become more than just a play - it’s a way for thousands of people around the country to help end violence against women.
This Sunday, MSU contributes to the cause by putting on a two-hour show to raise awareness on this and other women’s issues, such as sexual violence, menstruation and childbirth.
This is the third year “The Vagina Monologues” has been shown at MSU. It comes Sunday to MSU’s Auditorium, where between 17 and 18 monologues are slated to be performed.
“The Vagina Monologues” was originally written by Eve Ensler, who interviewed hundreds of women about these and other life experiences.
But the show speaks to more than just women.
“Men can stand to learn a lot from this show, too,” said human biology sophomore Arash Mahajerin, also one of the co-directors of the show. “I thought if I could somehow be a part of that, somehow get involved with all the energy and all the power, maybe I can help women and men at the same time.”
Showtime is 3 p.m., and tickets are still available.
English and theater freshman Patti Wheeler said everyone needs to help make a difference.
“I think the most important thing to take away from this is that we can make a change, and it’s up to us to do it,” said Wheeler, the show’s co-director and an English and theater freshman.
For the second straight year, the play is being sponsored by the MSU Women’s Council.
Many people aren’t even aware of the seriousness of violence against women, said zoology junior Hillary Noyes, the show’s producer.
“A lot of this happens here, and it’s something that affects everybody’s life and everybody should be aware of,” she said.
Communication senior Erika Nuerenberg said “The Vagina Monologues” should be equally important to men and women at MSU.
“The show encompasses a play, a movement, a cause, and a woman’s point of view all in one,” she said. “It’s important for men and women alike to understand and appreciate women today.”
After the performance, a question-and-answer period, called “Vagina Dialogue,” will be held in the Auditorium, with a representative from Planned Parenthood available to answer any questions.
Other recent events have also helped commemorate “Vagina Week,” including a workshop last Saturday where students could create vagina artwork and a poetry reading and art show at the Blue Note Coffee Cafe earlier this week.
A “Women in Hollywood” movie night will also take place at 7:00 p.m. Saturday in room 339 of Case Hall.
Leslie Escobar can be reached at escobarl@msu.edu.
