The Vagina Monologues

Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues, first performed in 1996, is the product of over 200 interviews with women of multiple ages, races and sexual orientation, about their vaginas. This production - vibrantly and poignantly presented by Lit Live for State of Play and the Fringe World Festival - is playing at two venues - Studio Underground, at the State Theatre Centre of WA, to be followed by a another short season at His Majesty’s Theatre, Perth.

To attend shows at the State Theatre Centre at the moment, audience members need to sign in on the Safe WA ap. As there are several spaces in the venue - with separate “codes” to sign in, patrons are asked which show they will be attending. As we were entering, the gentleman next to us was asked which show he was attending. He whispered “the vagina one”, adding that he was meeting his wife in the foyer. His reluctance to say the title was a strong reminder that a quarter of a century after the debut of this show, this is still a controversial and important work.

Three women of varying ages - Sarah McNeill, Alexandria Steffensen and Lauren Thomas - sit on epic red chairs and share a lectern to present the monologues. Ranging from extremely funny, through sad, thoughtful to very distressing - these stories from a myriad of women have much to say about women and their relationship with their bodies. Acted with depth, colour and a commitment to truth - we see three very strong performances from actresses who work well together to inform and entertain.

Presented ‘traditionally” with scripts in hand - although they are rarely consulted - this incarnation is given some flair with the co-ordinated costuming, furnishing and folders, and thoughtful blocking that adds to the strength of the presentation.

While the audience was dominated by women, this is an important piece of theatre for all genders. Take a friend or family member for a surprising, and informative, piece of theatre that is sure to spark some lively conversation.

Kimberley Shaw

Images (from top): Lauren Thomas, Alexandria Steffensen and Sarah McNeill.

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