Theater is an art form that has been used to tell stories for centuries, and it has a unique way of portraying sexual trauma and resilience in marginalized communities. Through its various elements such as costumes, sets, lighting, sound, music, and acting, theater can bring out emotions and feelings that are difficult to express in everyday life. By representing these themes, theater helps audiences understand and empathize with the experiences of those who have suffered from sexual violence and abuse. This essay will explore how theater depicts sexual trauma and resilience in marginalized communities through four plays: "Buried Child" by Sam Shepard, "Fefu and Her Friends" by María Irene Fornés, "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When The Rainbow Is Enuf" by Ntozake Shange, and "Angels in America" by Tony Kushner.
"Buried Child" by Sam Shepard
In "Buried Child," written by Sam Shepard in 1978, the main character Dodge is struggling with his sexuality and masculinity while living with his dysfunctional family in rural Nebraska. He has not spoken to his son Bradley since he came home after serving in Vietnam, where he was sexually assaulted by another soldier. When Bradley returns home, he is no longer the same person he once was and tries to hide his traumatic experience.
Dodge refuses to accept him, leading to a tense confrontation between father and son.
The play's use of symbolism and imagery creates an intense atmosphere of suspense and fear. The characters' secrets are buried deep beneath the surface, as if they were literally buried in the ground. Dodge's wife Halie is an alcoholic who suffers from dementia, and her husband Tilden is mentally challenged. They both try to escape their reality by drinking themselves into oblivion. The play explores how sexual violence can be passed down through generations, affecting those who experience it directly and indirectly.
Despite its bleak tone, "Buried Child" offers hope for those who have been affected by sexual abuse. Throughout the play, the characters seek forgiveness, understanding, and acceptance. They find solace in each other despite their flaws and imperfections. The ending scene shows that even though the past cannot be changed, people can move forward together towards a brighter future. By portraying sexual trauma in such a raw and honest way, theater provides a space for audiences to discuss difficult topics and promote healing.
"Fefu and Her Friends" by María Irene Fornés
In "Fefu and Her Friends," written by María Irene Fornés in 1977, five women come together at Fefu's country home to celebrate their friendship.
As the day progresses, tensions arise between them as they confront their individual struggles with race, class, gender, and sexuality. One character, Emma, has been sexually assaulted by her father, while another, Julia, has experienced emotional abuse from her husband.
The play's use of language and imagery creates an intimate and powerful atmosphere. The characters are all connected by shared experiences and feelings of isolation. They confide in one another, sharing secrets and revealing vulnerabilities. Through their interactions, they learn that they are not alone in their pain and suffering.
By exploring sexual violence through multiple perspectives, "Fefu and Her Friends" highlights how it affects individuals differently depending on factors such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status. It also shows how resilience can look different for everyone, but it is still possible to find strength and hope in community. The play ends with a sense of empowerment and solidarity among the women.
"For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When The Rainbow Is Enuf" by Ntozake Shange
In "For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide/When The Rainbow Is Enuf," written by Ntozake Shange in 1976, seven African American women share their stories through poetry, dance, music, and song. Each woman represents a different color - Lady in Red, Lady in Blue, Lady in Green, Lady in Yellow, Lady in Orange, Lady in Brown, Lady in Purple, and Lady in Black - and speaks about their struggles with love, relationships, identity, and abuse.
The play's use of poetry and movement allows the audience to feel the raw emotions of each character. Their monologues are personal and intimate, allowing them to express themselves without judgment or censorship. The play highlights how sexual trauma can be exacerbated by systemic oppression and marginalization.
How does theater portray sexual trauma and resilience in marginalized communities?
The theater has been an important platform for artists from marginalized communities to express their experiences with sexual trauma and resilience. It is a space where individuals can come together to share stories that are often suppressed by mainstream society. Theater allows for actors to inhabit characters that may not represent themselves directly but rather provide insight into other people's lives and struggles. By doing so, it creates empathy among audiences who may have never experienced these issues firsthand.