The Inferior Sex: Staged Reading/Workshop Production at UNCW

2/1/2019

At long last, I'm finally able to share the photos from the stage reading/workshop production of The Inferior Sex at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington. With this residency, I had the opportunity to work on any play. What a gift! To be told by the chair of the department: We just want to do and support whatever helps you, your craft, and your process. I have a lot of plays in the pipeline, as it were, and I'm glad that I chose The Inferior Sex.

I began writing this play in the wake of the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements. As cities across the world prepared for the second Women’s March, I kept thinking about the Equal Rights Amendment, which would guarantee equal legal rights for all American citizens regardless of sex. While it passed in 1972, it did not reach the 38 state threshold required for ratification. Recently, however, Nevada approved the amendment last year and Illinois approved it this past May. All hope is pointing to Virginia right now. If they approve it, then Equal Rights Amendment will become the law of the land. It’s amazing to think that the global focus on anti-sexual assault and women’s empowerment could lead to immediate, lasting, and comprehensive social and political change. Additionally, over the course of three workshops, actors--whether they were women or queer identifying, told me that they were so happy to be able to play smart, ambitious, passionate, and driven women, and that it was their first time doing so. It's an extraordinary statement, but not surprising given the history of the American Theatre.

My time at UNC Wilmington allowed me to dive deeper into the characters' emotional landscapes, clarify key plot points, and learn more about the world of the play. I remain deeply appreciative for this opportunity for and for the enthusiasm, humor, and talent of my brilliant cast and stage manager. I'm excited to see where this play goes next! Of course, I'll be sure to keep you posted!

Under the direction of Shirley Serotsky, the cast of The Inferior Sex included Alana Ashurst, Lizzie Bennett, Julie Bishop, Madeline Leah Mary Boltinghouse, Darien Bradley, Dajah Glenn, Margaret Naughton, Abigail Norris, Breonté Scarboro, and Samantha Stemmer. Our fearless stage manager is Heidi Casinger. It was such fun, productive, and inspiring experience. Please enjoy these photos of our time together!