It’s a ‘V’ thing

Vanessa Ceccarelli encourages women to find their voices—through their vaginas. The Chico State senior and director of this year’s performance of The Vagina Monologues says talking about “down there” brings solidarity to women across the globe. The play, written by Eve Ensler, is a compilation of stories told through the perspective of a woman’s most sacred spot. What started as a simple play has become an entire movement, with women like Ceccarelli performing and directing the monologues in cities around the world and demanding change and respect for women and their vaginas. The Vagina Monologues will be performed at Bell Memorial Union Feb. 29 at 7:30 p.m. and March 1 at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at the University Box Office.

So really, why tell stories from a vagina’s perspective?

The vagina is really the center of everything. It’s the center of the woman and what gives life. So many people want to keep the vagina quiet, but it is such an important thing.

Is there a particular monologue your vagina identifies with?

It would have to be “Reclaiming Cunt.” My vagina was depressed for a long time. It now wants to get out, be sassy and surprise people.

In one monologue, a woman’s vagina talks about what it would wear. What would yours wear?

Black lace. My vagina likes to be sexy.

What has your vagina learned through your involvement in The Vagina Monologues?

My vagina realizes it’s not the only one. It knows it’s not the only one that has been angry, has fears and has anxiety. There is a whole culture of vaginas out there my vagina can relate with.

What has been the most rewarding part of this experience for your vagina and you?

To see the Monologues as a living, breathing piece of art that really pushes change. Every year 10 percent of the ticket sales go to benefit certain organizations for women. This year, the proceeds will be donated to women in New Orleans who were victims of Hurricane Katrina. The Vagina Monologues brings an amazing energy to those who see it and really serves as a catalyst for change.