Daring play raises violence awareness

The “Vagina Warriors” are going to battle again.

A local cast is getting ready for another year of Eve Ensler’s “The Vagina Monologues,” a play that heightens awareness of violence and abuse against women.

Jennie Washburn, cast member and six-year monologue veteran, says the show has seen tremendous success because it puts a comical spin on a serious issue.

“It touches every woman in some fashion, whether it wakes up a fear or whether it allows her to find humor in her own body or situation,” she says.

The play will be performed as part of the V-Day Worldwide Campaign, a global movement that promotes antiviolence organizations. Working with V-Day and sponsoring the monologues for the second consecutive year is One Hundred Good Women, a group aiming to achieve social welfare through community service.

Because of its audacious subject, the play elicits a range of reactions from audiences.

“It’s different for everybody. It pushes a button because we don’t want to have to say that word,” Washburn says. “We don’t want to talk about down there!”

In addition to three local charities, 10 percent of the proceeds will be given to a group in need. This year’s spotlight is Women in Iraq Under Siege.

Sunday night’s production will be in the form of a dinner theater. Monday’s production will be general admission.

With: One Hundred Good WomenWhen: 6 p.m. Sunday and 7:30 p.m. MondayWhere: Liberty Hall, 642 Mass.Tickets: $50 (Sunday) and $10 (Monday)Ticket info: 749-1972