Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Continuing its efforts to end violence and abuse, the Women's Studies Student Association (WSSA) at the University of North Carolina Wilmington will present The Vagina Monologues at 7 p.m. Feb. 3 and 5 in Lumina Theater.

Inspired by the international celebration of V-Day and its efforts to raise awareness of abuse and violence against women and girls, The Vagina Monologues consists of a series of short narratives performed by all demographics that provide insight into the personal experiences of women. Some monologues evoke pain, suffering and outrage, while others inspire passion, humor and power.

The production, which was first performed and written 11 years ago by Eve Ensler, has become an annual spring tradition for on the UNCW campus. This year's performance is co-directed by UNCW student Lisa Huynh and Deanna Stoker of Coastal Horizons Center. The cast consists of 21 volunteers, including students.

All proceeds will benefit the Coastal Horizons' Rape Crisis Center and the Carousel Center for abused children in Wilmington, with a modest contribution to the national V-Day organization. Production costs are funded on a donation basis only.

"The Vagina Monologues speaks to not only women and girls but to men as well," said Huynh. "Most people don't realize the impact of sharing real women's stories until they come to the shows, but anyone of any background, race, sexual orientation or age can relate to the monologues."

Tickets are available through etix.com and in person at Sharkey's Box Office, Fisher Student Center, 910.962.4045. Cost is $10 for general public and $5 for students with valid ID. Show times are as follows:
• Thursday, Feb. 3, 7 p.m.
• Saturday Feb. 5, 7 p.m.

What is V-Day?
V-Day is a non-profit catalyst that works to end violence against women and girls including rape, incest, battery, genital mutilation and sexual slavery. The movement strives to raise awareness and to unify anti-violence efforts to help women throughout the world.

This year, V-Day's Spotlight Campaign focuses on the women and girls of Haiti. It highlights the increased rates of sexual violence since the Jan. 2010 earthquake. All funds raised will support a revolutionary Haiti campaign that will address sexual violence through art, advocacy, safe shelter and legal services. To learn more about V-Day, visit www.vday.org.

Media contact:
Dana Fischetti, media relations manager, 910.508.3127 or fischettid@uncw.edu