The Vagina Monologues returns to the Eureka Theater on Friday, Feb. 13 at7 p.m., with shows on Saturday, Feb. 14 at 7 p.m. and Sunday, Feb. 15 at 1 p.m. ($25). Twenty-five years ago, Kristy Hellum directed Humboldt County’s first local staging of Eve Ensler’s ground-breaking work to sold-out crowds. At the time, the theater board refused to put “Vagina” on the marquee, opting for “Monologues,” until board members’ wives staged a Lysistrata-style protest and the word finally went up (if you know, you know).
Now, Hellum returns with a production shaped for this moment, when trans and queer people face disproportionate violence and reproductive rights are under attack. In rural places especially, these stories keep people visible and alive. If you’ve never seen it, this is your moment. If you saw it in 2001, prepare for a powerful reunion. Proceeds benefit Together Women Rise and Humboldt Domestic Violence Services.
