CSC production of 'Extremities' begins conversations
When Chadron State College assistant professor of theatre Scott Cavin sent an email to faculty and staff several months ago asking to start a campus wide conversation about the issue of rape, he was not sure what shape the conversation would take.
Cavin introduced the mid-February production, "Extremities," as a controlled environment for fostering more discussion about the topic that is gaining attention on college campuses nationwide through Title IX requirements.
In the play, by William Mastrosimone, Majorie is attacked in her apartment by a man named Raul. Her roommates, Terry and Patricia disbelieve her story and strongly disagree about how to deal with Raul.
“‘Talk Back’ sessions immediately after four performances involved an estimated 100 audience members in meaningful dialog, so we accomplished our purpose,” Cavin said.
Several people stayed after the “Talk Back” sessions and engaged in further discussion about the topic.
Anna Owen, stage manager, said it was exciting to hear one person in the audience ask a question and then listen as another audience member answered before the cast or Cavin could comment.
“There was a lot of interaction. I feel like, from their reactions and body language, some people in the audience are now ready to tell somebody their story,” Owen said.
Some audience members seemed to initially side with the doubting roommates, until a surprise twist in the plot near the near the final scene, according to Jessica Steffen-Schepers, who played Patricia.
“Victims need someone to believe them,” Steffen-Schepers said.
Doug Valade who portrayed the assailant, Raul, said the experience taught him the significance of support for a victim after an attack.
“They need to talk it out. They need someone to listen,” he said.
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Category: Campus News, Theatre