Department of Theatre Arts presents the Vagina Monologues

NEW PALTZ, NY — “Vagina. There, I’ve said it. Vagina – said it again. I say it because it’s an invisible word – a word that stirs up anxiety, awkwardness, contempt, and disgust.” – Eve Ensler

The Department of Theatre Arts at SUNY New Paltz will present “The Vagina Monologues” by Eve Ensler, February 10-14, 2000 in Parker Theatre. Based on actual interviews with a diverse group of over two hundred women, Ensler’s groundbreaking play has been performed throughout the world as a one-woman show featuring the playwright herself. In the New Paltz production, directed by Simone Federman, an ensemble of eighteen women gives voice to this profound, hilarious, and highly charged subject.

The impetus for presenting “The Vagina Monologues” at SUNY New Paltz is a national art project called V-Day 2000 College Initiative. Over 100 colleges throughout the country are producing “The Vagina Monologues” simultaneously on Valentine’s Day as an organized movement to stop sexual violence against women. Proceeds from this production of “The Vagina Monologues” benefit CASA, a student organization on the SUNY New Paltz campus, and Family of New Paltz and of Woodstock.

With irreverent answers to “If your vagina got dressed, what would it wear;” to awe-inspiring descriptions of childbirth; and disturbing monologues about Bosnian rape camps and genital mutilation, Ensler has created a revolutionary piece of theatre.

“The Vagina Monologues” will be performed February 10, 11, 12, and 14 at 8pm, and February 13 at 2pm. A post-show discussion with the audience will occur after each performance.

Prior to the Friday, February 11th performance, the Department of Theatre Arts will host a Friday Night Forum. Participants include Simone Federman (Theatre Arts), Amy Kesselman(Women’s Studies), Denise Bauer(Women’s Studies and English), and Michelle Cangelosi (Women’s Studies and Human Resources). This free pre-show discussion will begin at 6:30pm in the theatre.

Tickets to “The Vagina Monologues” are $12 adults and $10 senior citizens. They may be ordered over the phone, at 257-3880, with MasterCard or VISA, or in person at the box office with cash, check, or credit card. The McKenna Box Office is located in the lobby of McKenna Theatre. It will open on Friday, February 4, 2000. Box Office hours are Monday through Friday, 10am – 4pm. On nights of performance, the box office is moved to the lobby of Parker Theatre where the production is performed.

For further information about V-Day 2000 College Initiative, and other colleges in our area who are presenting this play, please visit their website: www.feminist.com/vday