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Go see The Vagina Monologues this weekend |
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Written by cougster1
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Monday, 18 February 2008 |
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(Editor's note: This was written by Cougster contributor Maddie)
“The Vagina Monologues” has been Jordan J. Hightower’s object of intense interest for the past three years. Hightower became the director of the production after acting in it for two years and has been a constant force in promoting the cause ever since. This year, “The Vagina Monologues” will be performed at Washington State University on February 22-23.
“The Vagina Monologues” takes a stance on the empowerment of women through knowledge and personification of their vaginas. The production is made up of monologues that in some way relate to the vagina. As reported on RandomHouse.com such topics include sex, love, rape, menstruation, mutilation, masturbation, birth, orgasm, the variety of names for vagina, or just as an aspect of the female human body.
First-time actress Lindsey A. Baier believes fully in the message sent by the production, “it sends a powerful message in a creative way, true life stories make more of an impact than a brochure.” “The Vagina Monologues” offers a chance for all to be involved in taking a stand in the fight against worldwide oppression of women.
Hightower rattles off reasons why this play means so much to her like an auctioneer would follow bids. As director, Hightower is able to allow her passion for the cause to flourish while her previous acting experience enables her to portray the cause to the audience in a way that could be done without her previous dedication.
The most affective aspect of direction for Hightower is the control she has over where the money raised by the production goes. Ever since her first taste of involvement she has wanted to be able to do much more. Ten percent of all proceeds raised go back to V-Day, a grassroots nonprofit movement dedicated to ending violence against women around the world. That ten percent will go to the V-Day spotlight, “Vagina Warriors”, an organization that supports women affected by Hurricane Katrina.
The other 90 percent of the proceeds Hightower is proud to say will stay local. Alternatives to Violence of the Palouse, Inc. offers help to women in both Whitman and Latah Counties that are victimized by domestic or sexual abuse. In past years Hightower said the production was able to donate $4,000-5,000 per year from the proceeds to support their cause. A slight increase in ticket sales and the availability of more promotional items should produce more funds to donate.
“The Vagina Monologues” proves to be a must-see, especially for all women because according to Hightower it’s about “loving not only your vagina, but the place you’re at in the world, and the help you can offer to other women.”
“The Vagina Monologues” will be performed February 22-23 at 8 p.m. in Washington State University’s Daggy Hall. Tickets will be $10 for non-students and $8 for students.
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