V Day: A Day to Remember

V Day is a global activist movement to end violence against women and children inspired by Eve Ensler’s play, The Vagina Monologues. As a country that frequently hears cases of all sorts of sexual violence, this concept is nothing new. However, through much enthusiasm, dedication and sacrifice, the team that made V Day a success this time did a truly fantastic job. The concept was woven around a series of mini dramas which highlighted messages such as the desperate feelings elderly men have over young girls, how it was like for one to be gay, how the law can sweep cases of rape under the carpet for a few bucks and women, how young boys try to use their girlfriends and how drugs can interfere with sexual life.

At the end of this mindboggling experience several members of the audience shared their views with Daily Mirror Life. Following are the excerpts:

“I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was pretty much an excellent performance. I loved the way they performed.” – Suminda

“The themes were very relevant. I loved the scene of the funeral where there was nothing physical but carried a deep message.” – Shami

“It was really good and I had a wonderful experience.” – Nadeeka

“It was very powerful. The topics covered were very much relevant to the current context. Also the fact that the stories were uncensored too gives a deeper meaning to the whole concept.” – Suresh

“I really enjoyed it. The standard of acting was superb.” – Nithesh

“The concept quite highlights a very relevant current issue. Well done Grassrooted for this wonderful job.” – Deduni

“I have been involved in theatre as well. All these actors have taken acting to the next level. We see them mostly in comedy roles and when I saw them in this context I was surprised. They are quite talented. It was a job well done.” – Amaya

“I have been to a couple of V-Days. I have always loved the scripts. I loved the settings today, one drama at one corner of the gallery and one at another. It was quite amazing.” – Ranaka

“I enjoyed the whole thing in parts. The fact that it was translated in to Sinhala was very important because it carried the message further. The concept was quite relevant to current issues on sexual violence and it allows one to understand the dynamics of gender.” – Chinthaka

“I enjoyed it. It was very witty yet some parts made me feel sick.” – Dmitri

Reviewed by Kamanthi Wickramasinghe
Photographs by Nisal Baduge