'The Vagina Monologues' Plays for Two Nights Only

EDGE READ TIME: 4 MIN.

Maxie Solters, founder of V-Day Studio City, has once again gathered together a group of talented thespians to perform Eve Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues," for two nights only.

Festivities take place on Friday and Saturday, April 3-4, at The Federal Bar, 5303 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, 91601. This stylish nightclub, in a classic early-20th-century bank building, has a charming cozy ambiance, perfect for delighting in fabulous fare while enjoying superb entertainment.

Showtimes are 8 p.m. Doors open for dinner and drinks at 7 p.m. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Check out the eclectic menu at www.thefederalbar.com. Feel free to stay for the after party, immediately following, with smokin' hot DJ's spinnin' rockin' tunes for dancin' and romancin' the night away.

The Pleasure Chest continues their tradition of sponsoring and donating gift bags to be raffled. Chocolate Vagina Lollipops are also a favorite crowd pleaser. The 'fake orgasm contest,' which always brings the audience to their feet in laughter, is a highlight of the evening. The winners receive exciting erotic prizes.

Tickets are available in advance at ticketweb.com or email [email protected] to reserve with credit card. They will sell out!

"The Vagina Monologues" (TVM) is a provocative, stimulating, and poignant play depicting true stories about women's attempts to overcome society's stigmas through embracing and celebrating their sexuality.

As with every presentation of these hysterical, eye opening, and heart-wrenching pieces, profits are dispersed to Peace Over Violence, a local social service agency committed to eliminating all forms of sexual, domestic, and interpersonal violence through education and awareness. For further details, visit www.peaceoverviolence.org

Solters produces for the sixth consecutive year. She co-stars with Heldine Aguiluz (director), Allie Altschuler (assistant coordinator), Michelle Appezzato, Lauren Rodriguez, Nan Savage, Gena Shaw, and Emily Short.

The award-winning play is based on V-Day Founder/playwright Eve Ensler's interviews of over 200 women. With humor and grace, the piece celebrates women's sexuality and strength. Through the liberation of this one word, countless women around the world have taken control of their bodies and their lives. For more than sixteen years, "TVM" has given voice to experiences and feelings not previously exposed in public

"TVM" has transformed Maxie's life in countless ways. She looks forward to spending the season with inspiring, courageous, beautiful women and performing in this spectacular show. "It's much more than a series of monologues... it's a monumental movement."

According to Solters, one of the most rewarding parts of "TVM," is seeing the reaction of the audience. "They're often compelled to speak up about their experiences, graciously expressing gratitude for the fearlessness of the actors."

Maxie maintains, "If I can make a difference for just one person, then all the hard work is worth it. Change in the world has to start with individuals... men, women, and children... only then can we truly stop the violence."

For Solters, the significance of "TVM" is in teaching us that we "DESERVE to be treated with kindness, respect and love." She notes: "Don't be afraid to stand up for your rights and what you believe in. Don't let people belittle you or say you aren't valuable or worthy."

Maxie's particular monologue, "My Short Skirt," is compelling because it suggests the importance of being able to wear and do whatever we want without apprehension of assault.

Solters is passionate about this profound message. "I should NOT have to worry about going to a party and getting drugged. I should NOT have to be on high alert while walking my dog down the street at night. I should NOT have to be afraid to go on a date with someone because they might rape me."

"I should be able to drink alcohol and literally lie on the ground naked at a gathering without anyone touching me. I would expect that no one would take advantage of me. Unfortunately, that isn't the society we live in yet. We are getting there... but it will take continuous determination and persistent efforts."

Maxie graduated from the USC School of Theatre and is presently working as an actor/producer/content creator. Her most recent endeavor is the web-series she created, produced, and stars in: "Good Vibrations."

"It's a provocative comedy about a sex therapist who enhances her clients' sexual energy through wacky and unconventional methods (mostly involving vibrators). I'm currently in negotiations with various companies for distribution."

V-Day is growing at a rapid pace throughout the world, currently in 130 countries from Europe to Asia, Africa and the Caribbean, and all of North America. The non-profit corporation distributes funds to grassroots, national and international groups and programs that work to stop all forms of abuse towards women and girls.

In 2001, V-Day was named one of Worth Magazine's "100 Best Charities" and in 2006 one of Marie Claire Magazine's Top Ten Charities. The 'V' in V-Day stands for Victory, Valentine and Vagina.

Grab your sweetheart, bff, or venture out solo for a moving experience that will motivate, transform, and empower you in positive ways, continuing in full force for many moons to come.

"The Vagina Monologues" runs April 3-4 at The Federal Bar, 5303 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA. Seating is on a first come first served basis. Tickets are $20 cash at the door; at Ticketweb.com; or email [email protected] to reserve with a credit card.


by EDGE

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