'Monologues' Speaks To Both Genders

American Stage Theatre Company is trying something new that might go easier on the pocketbooks of theater buffs, as well as raise extra money for the company.

Beginning Tuesday, the theater will host the After Hours Series, featuring edgier shows after its Mainstage plays have finished for the evening, to help fight a struggling economy.

The series begins with Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues," running through Oct. 12. After Hours tickets are "pay what you can," with part of the proceeds going to YMCA's teen mothers program.

"The Vagina Monologues" is based on interviews with more than 200 women about their memories and experiences of sexuality and self-discovery appropriate for both genders to appreciate.

"It's a call to all women to embrace that part of their body, their sexuality and their entire body," said Meg Heimstead, director. "I want women to walk away feeling proud of who they are and feeling comfortable with their body. I want men to walk away with a greater respect and understanding for the female form and existence."

The St. Petersburg theater company turned 30 this year and is feeling the squeeze of losing $29,000 from the state and $15,000 from the city, said Todd Olson, producing artistic director.

"Those sorts of cuts are real to us. Our budget is about $1.5 million. Those cuts are staff positions," Olson said. "We had to make our stage work for us in a different way. The arts are vital to everyone."

The edgier playlist, new ticket prices plus the late-night showtimes may attract a new audience, Olson said.

"We try nothing more than to tell stories in a compelling way and be the best live theater," he said. "With all the things we can do online, we're becoming further and further removed from the live experience. In our theater, you are very close; you're a part of it."

The American Stage production of "The Vagina Monologues" stars Bonnie Agan ("Romeo and Juliet"), Brandii Edwards ("Suddenly Last Summer"), Magali Naas and Jessica Alexander.

The production also features guest performers throughout the run, including local celebrities Ivanka Ska, fashion correspondent for WFLA's "Daytime"; Rhonda Shear of USA's "Up All Night": JoEllen Schilke, WMNF, 88.5 FM, personality for "Art in Your Ear"; Lynne Austin, personality on WQYK, 1010 AM; and Rita Ciccarello of WQYK, 99.5 FM's morning show.

"It's very, very funny. It's a topic we don't discuss in our society, and getting people to laugh helps to make them relax and open up," said Heimstead. "I'm really looking forward to it; it will be a different show each night."

ON STAGE

"The Vagina Monologues"

WHEN: Tuesday through Oct. 12; 10:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; 7 p.m. Tuesday and Sunday

WHERE: American Stage, 211 Third St. S., St. Petersburg

TICKETS; Pay what you can; (727) 823-7529