KINGSTON, R.I. – Jan. 28, 2025 – Nearly three decades after Eve Ensler’s Vagina Monologues debuted in 1996, University of Rhode Island community members say it’s as relevant as ever.

The play returns to URI this spring on Feb. 28 and March 1, in Edwards Hall.

Monologuists needed

The Vagina Monologues began as part of a theatre-driven movement to help end violence toward women and has been performed around the world. The show has been staged at URI for more than two decades now, with students in its speaking roles.

A new generation of URI students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to participate in this year’s production. While the show is staged predominantly by women and a gender-diverse cast, individuals from all backgrounds in the URI community can help promote the show by attending, volunteering, spreading the word, or simply showing up to support and engage with the diverse experiences being shared.

This year’s production is a collaboration between the URI Women’s Center and URI’s Gender and Sexuality Center, and will serve as a fundraiser for both centers. Staff there say a new generation of audience members can learn from the play.

Carol Pegg in Student Affairs is directing this year’s production. Her connection to the show extends back to the 2013 performance at URI, when she first performed one of the monologues.

“There are so many reasons why The Vagina Monologues stay relevant,” she says. “The monologues are a reminder of how vital women’s bodily autonomy is. Monologues are used as an act of women’s resistance and reinforce our right to make decisions about our bodies and health without interference. I also see The Vagina Monologues as a way for women to take back their power and cease apologizing about their bodies and experiences, especially in this day and age of social media and people thinking they have the right to body-shame women.

“The Monologues celebrate the strength of women and gender-diverse individuals, break down barriers, address the challenges they face, and use their stories as a call for change and activism. We must continue to utilize the powerful tools of art, theatre, and music to fight for the rights, safety, and freedom of all gender identities.”

The fact that the production is offered annually at URI is a sign of the University’s progressive and welcoming climate, and openness to address women’s issues, says Women’s Center Director Ana Barraza. Manuela Vadis of the Gender and Sexuality Center adds that the message of the play is critical for all, regardless of gender.

“It’s critical for URI to be a resource and a safe space,” says Barraza. “Giving this presentation to our community sends a message that we are.”

The play’s testimonials address issues that are relevant to today’s college students, and people of all ages.

Those involved in this year’s production encourage the URI community to turn out in a show of support. They are hoping to cast a wide net, inviting the larger URI community to participate, and the public to attend.

They also hope to hear from past participants in the Monologues at URI, hoping to see past performers return for this year’s performances at URI.

“There are enough stories to go around,” says Barraza. “These stories speak to women’s lived experiences across ages and history.”

Vagina Monologues appears at URI on Friday, Feb. 28 (7:30 p.m.) and Saturday, March 1 (5:30 p.m.), in Edwards Hall; the doors open half an hour before each show. The show is open to guests 18+ or with a parent and is open to the public. Entry cost is $5 students, $8 faculty/staff, and $15 general public. Register here. You may also purchase entry at the door. Contact women@etail.uri.edu for more information.