Listen to the House Rockers tonight

So to help others with domestic violence they put on a play that sensationalizes the vagina. The very thing that seems to be what women are saying they do NOT want to be identified with … you know the “I am not an vaginal object” argument. But then you say I haven’t sat and listened to the Vagina Monologues … no I haven’t. I am afraid that I would be supporting those who make sexuality a focus for sexual abuse.

I think this play is an excellent way to open up dialogue about something that we just don’t discuss: Women’s sexuality, women’s bodies, and yes– the vagina. I’ve seen The Vagina Monologues and while there are segments that can be uncomfortable or disturbing, that does not diminish the message or the value of the play. Yes, there were parts I disliked; but guess what? Disagreement and conflict and differing opinions are perfectly welcome! As long as we are talking about the subject at all, it is a victory for women everywhere. The sad part is that many of the people reading these comments won’t even take the time to go out and see this play, and try *truly* opening up their minds to someone else’s perspective. Give it a chance!

PS: Thank you, Karen, for your input on this. Keep up the good work– and BRAVA to Tri-Valley Haven!!

Qwerty,

I can’t tell whether or not you’ve seen the play. It does not bash men, nor does it equate men with “the enemy” nor does it in any way declare hatred of heterosexuality.

I’ve done a cursory search (on the Internet) to find out more about Wendy McElroy’s and Betty Dodson’s critiques of The Vagina Monologues. I was more successful finding Betty Dodson’s critique. In my opinion, she wanted a different play than the one Eve Ensler has written. That is not a critique of Ensler’s work: it is a critique of a play she thought Ensler should have written instead. That is not valid criticism.

If you haven’t seen the play, I would encourage you see it and form an opinion based on the play itself, rather than someone else’s opinion of the play that should have been written instead.

There is room — plenty of room — for other plays. I also encourage you, or Betty Dodson or Wendy McElroy to write the play they want to see.

I am not an acolyte of Eve Ensler. I just think she has written a powerful piece that runs the gamut of heart breaking to poignant to funny.

There is one more performance in Livermore today (April 9) if you have never seen the performance and are interested.

Qwerty,

I do hope you come to the performance. Would be interested in what you have to say after seeing a performance. You might feel the same way. I just think it would be interesting to see if you have the same reaction to the piece as the women you quote.

Unbelievable show! Loved the Houserockers! Great to see the whole park rocking out. So glad the Pleasanton can attract that kind of talent to our town.