2008 Woodie Awards
Upcoming play makes waves, sets new tone for KWU theatre
Issue date: 2/16/08 Section: News
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Written by Eve Ensler, author of the "Vigina Monologues," "Necessary Targets" is an all-female cast play that takes place in a Bosnian refugee camp. Ensler, known for her risqué literature, spares no emotions in this take on this historical war crime.
Esvang said it was actually Ensler's approach and fire on the subject that attracted him to the piece. "I always look for stories we don't have the chance to talk about," Esvang said. "I picked this play because I like her writing and politics."
The basis of the play surrounds two women who venture to Bosnia on a presidential commission to help a group of victimized women overcome a series of hate and rape crimes in the early 1990s: a psychiatrist played by Adriene Similton and war specialist played by Lindsey Russell. The end is something not even cast member Jordan Griffin, Zlata, could have imagined.
"There are internal wars going on in this play," Griffin said, "but just like in every other war, it can come to peace."
That internal war is mirrored in the set design. According to Esvang, each scene is indicative on the inner turmoil each character brings to light. The walls symbolize the tearing of flesh or the ripping apart of each of their lives.
Another feature, which is causing a stir, is the pool.
"The idea of water is purifying, like baptism or birth. Some Islamic principles believe that you are both born and die in water. It is even in our major literature," Esvang said.
The list of cast members includes: Lindsey Russell, Melissa, Blaire Waite, Jelena, Amanda Little, Azra, Jordan Griffin, Zlata, Dani Wieden, Seada, Adriene Similton, J.S. and Jenny Unruh, Nuna.
"Necessary Targets" presents a chance for Esvang to bring to light an issue that, according to him, needs to be addressed.
"Part of what I want to do at Kansas Wesleyan University is have plays that normally are not in the pantheon of academics. I want more cultural plays because here, we have the perfect forum to do it," Esvang said.
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