Shawn Conner gives us five reasons to see UBC’s latest twist on Eve Ensler’s provocative ’90s play.

1. For newbies

“For anyone who’s never seen the production before, there’s so much to learn and be exposed to,” said director Mikaela Gerwing. The Natural Resources Conservation undergraduate has been in two previous UBC productions of the Vagina Monologues, Eve Ensler’s 1996 episodic play. “The show is quite raw and provocative. It’s very eye-opening.”

2. For repeat customers

“What we’re doing is quite different from anything that’s been done with the show,” Gerwing said. “I’m working with the cast to bring their unique experiences into it. And we’re incorporating some songs.” One of these is Cherokee Morning Song to help connect the show with the struggle for Indigenous rights in Canada. Another is MILCK’s Quiet, the unofficial anthem of last year’s Women’s March on Washington.

3. For guys

“For a long time, women have been quiet about their trauma and abuse,” Gerwing said. “Now more than ever it’s time for men to take a stand. Not only to empower women but to be part of that conversation.”

4. #MeToo

“I’ve never felt more passionate about the cause, especially with Donald Trump in the White House, and the #MeToo and #TimesUp movement,” she said. “This play opens the door on some serious issues.” All proceeds go to the Sexual Assault Support Centre at UBC and the Battered Women’s Support Services in Vancouver.

5. Cast

“We have a diverse cast of 18 women, from 18-yearolds who have just arrived at UBC to women with grown children,” Gerwing said. “They’re not only great actors but they are passionate, intersectional feminists. Not only are we putting on a show, but we’re building a community.”