Marsha Ellen Meidow’s first reading of the book "The Vagina Monologues" by Eve Ensler, left her with mixed feelings about those being represented. More in-depth investigation however, proved that the story’s heart lay with the women discussing their fears and joys about their sexuality, empowerment and sense of self. Marsha was hooked. Upon returning the book to the friend who had insisted she read it, Marsha found her self pulled in to her first performance of the play at the University of Western Toronto.
"I loved the book, just loved it, and the play reinforced that. The women’s stories are made more powerful in the play," said Miedow.
The re-creation of this work is embodied in live performances, which usually consist of 20 pieces where, between 15 and 17 of them come from women in the community who auditioned to be part of the project. The idea to use real women is a fascinating part of the event that allows Marsha the privilege of seeing women grow into themselves and find their own confidence.
"Often picking the shyest, most terrified women who grace the auditions, is part of the job. This is a means to gift them with the opportunity to straighten their backs, look up into the faces of the audience and find that strong women who they have always wanted to be. That keeps me coming back year after year. It’s so inspiring, and incredible to see."
Having performed the play for two years at the University of Western Toronto, two years at the University of Calgary, and now finding space at Max Bell Theater in the Epcore Center; Marsha, and her partner in non-crime, producer of the show Shone Abet, have had their fill of fighting to bring the Vagina Monologues to audiences over the years.
"There was a dispute with postering at the universities because they were uncomfortable with the word ‘vagina’, which was shocking but almost typical on second thought. The over all message was ’you shouldn’t really waste your time, people probably won’t come’. It made me want to do it all the more," said Miedow.
Selling out the last two years here in Calgary has earned her much well deserved respect in the community, and given her the opportunity to focus on what the whole performance is really about. Lending willing hands to this year’s performance is Canadian artist Kinnie Starr who will be performing a piece entitled "Crooked Braid". Also performing is Sheri D. Wilson with an original piece, "Conversations with a Cunt".
The performers have always welcomed men to their performances and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. "Men are very welcome to come, [it is] not just a fight for women. Strong men who want to fight with us may feel intimidated, but this can be a good starting point. We welcome everyone with open arms."
This performance has a secondary significance this year for the organizers. They are trying to raise $30,000 for the YWCA safe haven program, which deals with the issues surrounding teenage prostitution in our city, and those at risk of prostitution. This is an issue that the organizers are very close to; some of them work with these youth daily. "This is about breaking the silence, giving face to the statistics and numbers. Seeing them up there is difficult. Society would rather that they remain invisible, like ghosts. You don’t have to deal with a ghost because it’s already dead."
The performance of the Vagina Monologues is something for a community of people to affect the human spirit, to break down barriers and allow us to communicate. If you never see these women on stage again in your daily lives, you still will have shared something in this performance space unlike anything else you may experience in your life.
"Looking out one year from back stage, during the cunt piece, I saw an 80 year old women roaring and screaming ‘Cunt ! CUNT!’ along with the audience so happy and proud. She has probably never been given the opportunity to do that in her life. That is why I love it."