By Megan Palumbo & Olivia Angerosa – Sports Editor & 1851 Staff

The Vagina Monologues is an empowering performance, ready to raise awareness and discussion around stigmas in the female world. Photo courtesy of Rebecca Llanes

Lasell’s ninth performance of The Vagina Monologues is underway.

“With The Vagina Monologues 2018 show, I think we can expect the start of a conversation about women’s health and rights. It’s a very empowering show, and we’re all excited to be putting it on,” said Co-Director Danielle Hogan.

Co-Director Raegan Cleary also mentioned the wide variety of subjects the show covers. “I think we can expect to hear about a lot of different topics. Some of them are serious, but you’ll still walk away feeling good and it’s educational, uplifting, and inspiring,” she said.

The monologues are based on interviews conducted by Eve Ensler, the author of the show. Ensler spoke with women all over the world to hear their stories. “It’s entertaining and poetic,” said junior Molly Parrott. “However, it’s not a lecture or a science class.” The show uses personal experiences from women to educate the audience.

Cast members reveal that performing in the show allows them to feel comfortable talking about certain subjects. This kind of show resonated with many of them when they first saw it.

Senior Lauren Ahern says she joined simply out of curiosity. “I’ve never done the Vagina Monologues, but I always thought it was something really cool to get involved with,” she Ahern. “It was a really welcoming concept and group of people to join.”

“There’s a lot of funny things, but then there are [monologues] that are heavier and deal with things like sexual assault or being lost with the female body regarding the vagina,” said senior Rebeccca Llanes.

The creativity of this show paves a way for different interpretations and opinions about each portrayal. “We’re really trying to go for: ‘What are people walking away with, and who are they are sharing it with?’” said junior Mariah Lang.

This performance will be showcased in the Yamawaki Auditorium on February 23 at 7 p.m., and February 24 at 2 p.m. Tickets cost $5 at the door. Proceeds will go towards the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center and the V-Day Foundation.