In honor of “V-Day,” the UNA Center for Women’s Studies recently staged a performance of Eve Ensler’s collaborative work, “A Memory, a Monologue, a Rant, and a Prayer.”

The work is a collection of essays written by literary experts, feminists and celebrities. The essays, both comedic and tragic, bring the issue of violence against women to the forefront and eliminate the taboo that is placed on many tough and pertinent issues.

The performance opened with a touching and chilling acapella rendition of Chaka Khan’s “I’m Every Woman,” performed by Tammie Rhodes. The essays were performed as monologues, or short scenes with the actors simply reading their lines from a script.

One of the very first essays, performed by JC Hester, immediately took a turn for the emotional and left the audience feeling his pain as he ended in tears. The performance includes men as a reminder that women alone do not fight the fight against abuse.

Other monologues included a softer, more comedic touch. Tabitha Jackson’s “Maurice” had the audience roaring with laughter during her sweet and personable performance of the piece.

Megan Butz, a UNA student who performed in the production, said she had no experience in theater, but was interested in participating because of the good cause the play supports. The performance concluded with a passionate piece delivered by Rhodes and led the audience to a standing ovation.

The performance and fundraiser is part of the national “V-Day” movement that Ensler started in 1998 with a performance of her more recognized play, “The Vagina Monologues.” According to the organization, “V-Day is a global activist movement to stop violence against women and girls.”

The 2011 V-Day campaign puts a spotlight on the women and girls of Haiti. Proceeds for both performances also benefited Rape Response of the Shoals.