One woman’s goal to raise awareness and to stop violence against women and girls will result in a one-night-only performance of the award-winning play “The Vagina Monologues” on Friday, March 12, at the Dahl Arts Center.
Nicole Jurgensen stumbled upon “The Vagina Monologues” a few years ago and grew passionate about the writings and message of writer Eve Ensler.
“The play is about women’s empowerment and about women overcoming traumatic events in their lives,” she said.
The play is part of a global movement, called V-Day, which works to end violence against women and girls by raising money for organizations that educate and assist women in the fight against violence. Proceeds from the production will go to Working Against Violence Inc. of Rapid City.
“Everyone knows someone or has been a victim herself of domestic violence,” Jurgensen said. “When you get right down to it, it’s something that is not talked about enough. We’re hoping that the play will help open a dialogue and raise awareness.”
The play is being directed by Heather Pickering, a teacher and Storybook Island theater director. It features 22 women and girls from the area. They range in age from their teens to their 60s. Each monologue touches on a different topic that impacts women and girls. “Theater can bring certain social issues to light. Some good. Some bad. We learn and grow from other people’s experiences,” Pickering said.
“The women (in the play) are from all sorts of backgrounds and ages,” she added. “Having that wealth of experience brings a lot to the project.”
Jurgensen is excited about the inclusion of a monologue that Ensler wrote after her visit to the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. The monologue, called “The Crooked Braid,” recants the story of a Native woman’s struggle to deal with an abusive husband in an area of isolation and with few resources. “The Crooked Braid” will be performed by theater newcomer Norma Dupris, Central High School security personnel.
“I’m excited that we can include ‘The Crooked Braid,’” Jurgensen said. “It’s a story that was written after visiting our area, and it really hits home for many women.”
Mary Corbine, WAVI executive director, said she was shocked when she received the call from Jurgensen saying she wanted to put on the play with WAVI as the beneficiary. “It was completely out of the blue. It’s so generous of them to do this for us,” she said.
The nonprofit organization served about 2,240 clients in 2009. About 500 women and children sought shelter at the residence.
“We provide emotional support, help with protection orders, court advocacy or other resources,” Corbine said. “We’re full right now and as someone’s leaving, someone’s always coming in.”
