Disconnect to Reconnect

Welcome to my social experiment. I'm about to unplug. I'm going to put my Facebook page on hibernation mode. (!!!!!)  Is it a bad sign when your gut reaction is to broadcast that very news via a status update? This is ridiculous! Stepping away from Facebook for a few weeks is not supposed to feel like an Epic, life-altering event.  

Over the next few weeks my only connection to the online community will be via this blog as I chronicle my journey of disconnecting from social media.  Now, you are probably saying, "Andrea, you are using your blog! That is totally cheating!" Contradictory, well... kind of. (Spoken like a true addict). However, the point of this experiment is to step away from the minute-by-minute, play-by-play newsfeed of our daily lives. I want to reconnect with you off-line.  More on that... later. For now, the blog will simply hold me accountable. (Again, like an addict). 

So. What's this all about?

I was inspired by my latest project, The Vagina Monologues. I could go on and on about all of the warm & fuzzy feelings that manifested as a result of the show. (Or you could read about it, here). The most unexpected part of the experience was undoubtably the unyielding bond that was formed within the cast/crew. Keep in mind, this was a cast/crew of 19 strong-willed women.  Let me repeat that: 19 strong-willed women working together. I prepped myself for the worst. As I spoke to my colleagues about my undertaking, I can't tell you how many times I got a sympathetic look as they patted me on the shoulder and sighed, "Good luck, that is a LOT of estrogen!" 

Well, as the rehearsal process unfolded I quickly realized that all of my concerns were futile. We surprised ourselves to discover that there was not ONE ounce of cattiness or bitchiness throughout the entire process!  How could it be? Where were the diva attitudes? Where were the cliques? What happened to the emotional outbursts, snarky comments  and sideways glares? Gone. Well-- not gone. They never showed up. 

What did show up? Pure unfiltered love and support. A sisterhood and a community was formed from day one. As I talked to the women about their experiences in the creation of the project, it became abundantly clear that these women relished in the fact that this project provided them with a much needed "real life" community. Rehearsals gave us a place to come together, talk, LISTEN and be heard. We were able to validate our experiences and realize that we are not alone when it comes to many of the issues that we face everyday as modern women. 

Rehearsal for The Vagina Monologues, May 2011

In a city filled with millions of people, it's not uncommon to feel somewhat isolated from the world. It's easy to get lost in the rat-race and become completely absorbed with the trivialities of everyday life. What was even more clear was the evidence that Facebook and other social media outlets created a false sense of community online. Pseudo Contact. A community that wasn't transferring into the real world. At any point in time you can sign-on to Facebook and immediately feel connected to 500 of your 'closest buddies', but how many of those connections are genuine? 

Information overload has paved the way for lazy friendships. (Please excuse the sweeping generalities). Writing "Happy Birthday" on a Facebook wall has replaced sending birthday cards. We don't need to call a friend to see what they've been up to: we can visit their page,  'like' their pictures and comment on their status updates. It's a way to always feel connected, yet there is certainly a level of disconnect that results as a byproduct. There is a loss of actual face-time.

Not to mention the time wasted! How much time is spent on Facebook? I personally feel as though I abuse the system. From my talks with some of the cast members, it was not uncommon to hear guilty admissions of Facebook addiction! What would happen if we spent all of that time actually engaging with our 'off-line' network? Nourishing ourselves by fostering these relationships face-to-face.  What happens when we disconnect? Is there a chance that we can reconnect? A challenge was born.

Over the next few weeks I am going to challenge myself to temporarily  disconnect from Facebook and Twitter. I'll journal about my adventure and hopefully some inspiring art will come out of the experiment. My experience with The Vagina Monologues was a testament to the power of women working together for a good cause. Theatre was the perfect vehicle. They empowered each other; volunteered their time; formed new friendships; created meaningful art; raised awareness and gave back to the community. They inspired me every day and I'm anxious to discover what will happen in my attempt to disconnect, in order to reconnect. 

Social Networking. Connectivity. Real life.



 24 hours until I unplug.....
Stay tuned.

xoxo
Andrea



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A letter from our beneficiary!

"viBe has taught me to take all my negative experiences and turn them into positive artistic pieces. viBe is a place where I can grow. viBe is my escape, a fantasy island, where everyone has a chance to show who they truly are. I don’t know where I would be or what I’d be if viBe hadn’t showed me the way." –Elba 17

June 11, 2011

Dear Andrea and everyone involved with V-Day NYC Triad Theatre,

On behalf of viBe Theater Experience, I need and want to express the most massive and exuberant THANK YOU to your amazing, inspiring and absolutely successful fundraising efforts with your glorious production of The Vagina Monologues! As a small, struggling nonprofit organization, it is always challenging for us to raise the money to support our work running free afterschool arts programs with underserved teenage girls in New York City. We celebrate our 9th birthday this summer and for the past few years have been aggressively searching for a home/office. We have produced more than 55 different performance-based projects and productions since 2002 and have always relied on donated or subsidized rehearsal spaces, even at times rehearsing in my own apartment or in city parks when we lacked the resources to pay for space.

This past winter, we found our dreamhouse! The Brooklyn YWCA had recently completed an extraordinary renovation and has rented several rooms in their building to organizations with a girls-based, social justice mission. They accepted viBe and we were nervous about how we could afford to pay the rent. We knew being in a building with fierce, feminist neighbors such as Girls for Gender Equity, Planned Parenthood’s Teen Advocates program, Center for Nonviolence Education and Dwa Famn (among others) and also home to the Brooklyn Girls Coalition, a group of more than 20 organizations that serve girls in Brooklyn was just too amazing to pass up.

But we were worried. We knew we had raise at least $5000 to make the move happen and so many of our foundation partners don’t want to pay for “rent” or “overhead,” they only want to fund our direct program expenses. But we knew that this move would transform viBe and make it possible for us to offer so many different programs for girls. Then Andrea came along and offered to produce the Vagina Monologues. We immediately said yes, and hoped that maybe they would raise $3000 for viBe. But… Wow!

They absolutely exceeded our expectations and the funds they raised have made it possible for viBe to move into this gorgeous new home! Also, just as important as the money, Andrea and her team have built an amazing network of viBe volunteers and supporters who we will work with for many more years and will continue to support our efforts to provide spaces for girls to express themselves through the performing arts. In fact, we are so impressed with Andrea’s work that we invited her to be a member of viBe’s board of directors.

None of this would have been possible without VDAY. Thank you most viBrantly!

Dana Edell, PhD

Executive Director

dana@viBeTheater.org

PO BOX 1478 • NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10027 • (917) 647 0326 • www.vibetheater.org

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From Cindy...

As part of the follow-up report for the V-Day campaign, I asked the cast to detail how the project impacted their lives (if they wished to contribute). Once again, these women blew me away. Their testimonials were so heartfelt and beautiful, I asked if I could share them. It's easy to understand the positive impact that our fundraising had on our beneficiary organization, but it's hard to grasp how the making of the actual production greatly influenced the lives of those involved.

Over the next few days I'll be posting some of the cast testimonials, I encourage you to leave a comment. We'd love to hear your feedback! -Andrea

Cindy's Testimonial:

This project has been a beautiful treasure in my life. Graduating from an all-women hight school and being a woman's studies minor in college, I have never under-estimated the power of 'women in groups.' Yet, as an adult I have made less opportunities to - see such a thing in action!! Our cast was simply - love. As a whole, we were an open book within our group and onward. We shared stories of hardship and of happiness- we truly became a UNIT. And our respect for each other made everything that we did on stage all that more poignant.

The Monologues themselves were also life-changing-- I felt as though we really got to know them women who owned those memories. And our audience got to know those women too... hopefully, shedding permanent light on issues they would have felt distant from otherwise. Through the Vagina Monologues- I came to love my vagina! I never had a problem with her... but now, gosh- she's got much more personality!!

I believe much of this production's success can be attributed to our director, Andrea Bertola.. From the 1st minute, she fostered an environment of love, safety, support and even-affection. Our director, Andrea Bertola, walked us through activities at the top of every rehearsal- which reminded us why we were there- who we were there for- what we were hoping to accomplish...both for ourselves and for women across the globe. Andrea Bertola's vision for this show excited us!! She made us feel alive and important- she taught us to believe in our RALLY and that if our words could affect one audience member, we were accomplished. I think Andrea Bertola's approachable, current vision for the show- screams how talented she is as a director, a creative visionary, and a medium between experience and art. I am so proud to have worked with this director- she, and her vagina, are very special!

-Cindy Keenan

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From Frances...

As part of the follow-up report for the V-Day campaign, I asked the cast to detail how the project impacted their lives (if they wished to contribute). Once again, these women blew me away. Their testimonials were so heartfelt and beautiful, I asked if I could share them. It's easy to understand the positive impact that our fundraising had on our beneficiary organization, but it's hard to grasp how the making of the actual production greatly influenced the lives of those involved.

Over the next few days I'll be posting some of the cast testimonials, I encourage you to leave a comment. We'd love to hear your feedback! -Andrea

Frances' Testimonial:

This project has impacted my life in so many ways. First, as a woman approaching her 60’s it’s a tremendous validation that aging is what you make of it. We all have choices, and no matter what stage of your life you’re approaching, we all have the ability, the capability to contribute to our society. This project has inspired me to continue to raise awareness of violence against women; despite the reproachful remarks I received from family members for participating in this show, they were moved by its message when they attended the performance.

Another impact this project has had on my life is that I now have a group of women whose passion, promise, and pride have instilled in me a renewed sense of purpose and drive. All doubts about my ability to perform (as an actor) have faded away and I am willing and able to get out and DO IT!

Perhaps the biggest impact this project has had on my life is to once again, realize the beauty and joy theater brings to our world. How the arts are such a viable part of the human existence. How we can transform a person’s existence with a blink of an eye, a flicker of hope, a message of love. It truly can change the world. After Saturday’s encore performance, a 76-year-old woman approached me with her walker. Anne Cunningham told me how The Flood was a telling reflection of how older women perceive their sexuality; in fact, she commented how the entire production provided an overview of Women, Womyn, Woman. She said that she started the first women’s rescue center in Staten Island in 1973 which remains opened to this day. As past a NOW president, she said, “We need to do MORE of this.”

In the same week we performed our show, a Bosnian soldier who ordered the rape and murder of Muslim men, boys, and women was captured and brought to justice at the Hague. A woman was raped by two NYC police officers. They were acquitted; however, they were fired by the force with no pension. The woman spoke out and encouraged other victims to step forward because she felt that the love and support she received from people, strangers who sent her messages of love served as her justice. We must remain alert and aware that the human condition is what we make of it and that we must be steadfast in our mission to end the violence.

The entire performance process was carefully planned and organized. Communication was candid, clear, and concise. The entire staff, but particularly, its director was organized; it was her artistic vision that brought us to a satisfying- beyond- one’s- imagination completion.

Technical tools such as her website, calendar, and emails allowed communication to be swift and direct. Rehearsals were planned out ahead of time; objectives were clearly stated; time allotment was structured to allow feedback, questions, and concerns from all cast members. Those who might have felt embarrassed to speak in front of the group for whatever reason were encouraged to speak to the director privately.

Rehearsals included viable preparations that not only allowed experimental exploration, but also a clear sense of purpose to each exercise. Time was never wasted, but there was always a feeling that we could connect at any given moment to a cathartic aha! Clearly, the director pored over the script and knew exactly what she wanted; yet, she was always sensitive to each member’s need and had the know-how and empathy to move each and every one of us to be our best.

Perhaps the most useful time was spent with the director in her apartment rehearsing the monologues in one-on-one sessions. This allowed for individual undivided attention as well as a shared opportunity to tap into each and every playwriting insight. This was when I realized the full potential of not only my abilities as an actor, but also the depth of my character’s voice, her need to tell, and the urgency with which she needed to speak her message for that day, in that time, for that moment.

There is so much more I can say about Andrea Bertola as the director and organizer of this project, but perhaps the most important quality is her clear sense of purpose. Her passion and commitment and belief in the goodness of the world and in each and every human being was palpable and served as its beacon for the cast, its audience, and for those victims whose voices cannot be heard.

Respectfully submitted,
Frances L. McGarry, Ph.D.
Theater Education Consultant
June 6, 2011


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From Justine...

As part of the follow-up report for the V-Day campaign, I asked the cast to detail how the project impacted their lives (if they wished to contribute). Once again, these women blew me away. Their testimonials were so heartfelt and beautiful, I asked if I could share them. It's easy to understand the positive impact that our fundraising had on our beneficiary organization, but it's hard to grasp how the making of the actual production greatly influenced the lives of those involved.

Over the next few days I'll be posting some of the cast testimonials, I encourage you to leave a comment. We'd love to hear your feedback! -Andrea

Justine's Testimonial:

Dear Andrea,

Words can't really express what this experience means to me. I walked into the audition a scared girl and walked out of our last performance a confident woman. We, as a cast, promoted an atmosphere of love and support. That could not have happened without your eternal positivity, purpose, and drive. We WERE the examples of how to combat violence against women- by building other women up, accepting them, rooting for them, and loving them- when so many people are trying to do the opposite to women.

As a director, you allowed me to make mistakes while making me feel like a rock star when I succeeded. I couldn't ask for a better combination from a director, or a loved one!

Thank YOU! Tell Eve Ensler you KICKED BUTT! You expressed your unique vision with professionalism, class and poise!

Love,

Justine

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From Avel....

As part of the follow-up report for the V-Day campaign, I asked the cast to detail how the project impacted their lives (if they wished to contribute). Once again, these women blew me away. Their testimonials were so heartfelt and beautiful, I asked if I could share them. It's easy to understand the positive impact that our fundraising had on our beneficiary organization, but it's hard to grasp how the making of the actual production greatly influenced the lives of those involved.

Over the next few days I'll be posting some of the cast testimonials, I encourage you to leave a comment. We'd love to hear your feedback! -Andrea

Avel's Testimonial:

Dear Andrea,

This production has meant more to me than I ever could have imagined.

I have not felt like such an important part of something SO MAJOR in, well maybe ever. This was the most amazing, talented, energetic, funny, loving, beautiful, successful, motivated and inspirational group of women I have ever met. This union was no coincidence. We were all meant to be in each other's lives in one way or another.

A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Your's Andrea, is made from steel. Bulletproof, unyielding and indestructible.

Your vision was clear. Your direction was purposeful. This was such a success, not only because you saw all of our potential, but because you believe in what The Vagina Monologues stands for.

I am a better actress, women and friend because of this experience.

Thank you!

Love always,

Avel Juliette Horn-Muller

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From Sue...

As part of the follow-up report for the V-Day campaign, I asked the cast to detail how the project impacted their lives (if they wished to contribute). Once again, these women blew me away. Their testimonials were so heartfelt and beautiful, I asked if I could share them. It's easy to understand the positive impact that our fundraising had on our beneficiary organization, but it's hard to grasp how the making of the actual production greatly influenced the lives of those involved.

Over the next few days I'll be posting some of the cast testimonials, I encourage you to leave a comment. We'd love to hear your feedback! -Andrea

Sue's Testimonial:

Hi Andrea!

What I got out of this was a renewed love of theater and a renewed sense of myself as an actress. This entire process started out in an exercise of facing fears. I gained so much more than a chance to act.

I found new friendships and was able to connect to a diverse group of women. I don't have many female friends and don't make friends easily in general. I feel that by the end of this I was a part of an amazing group that will be hard to split up.

Also, watching/listening to everyone's performance night after night was such a special way to see everyone grow and change and add something better and more amazing to this very moving piece. All of this wouldn't have been possible if the vibe didn't start at the top.

You, Lauren, and Dee Dee set the tone from the start, even from the Facebook invite. This was always set to be an ensemble and you succeeded in creating so much more than that. You also created a totally kick ass show! You have such vision and know how to get what you want out of everything. Your notes were always so helpful and spot-on.

Sorry if there was any rambling :-)

Sue

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From Erica...

As part of the follow-up report for the V-Day campaign, I asked the cast to detail how the project impacted their lives (if they wished to contribute). Once again, these women blew me away. Their testimonials were so heartfelt and beautiful, I asked if I could share them. It's easy to understand the positive impact that our fundraising had on our beneficiary organization, but it's hard to grasp how the making of the actual production greatly influenced the lives of those involved.

Over the next few days I'll be posting some of the cast testimonials, I encourage you to leave a comment. We'd love to hear your feedback! -Andrea

Erica's Testimonial:

Dear Andrea,

I just wanted to take the time to personally thank you for all your efforts on making our production of “Vagina Monologues” such a success. No one can deny the talent and passion our cast possessed but without you none of this would have ever been possible. You took fifteen unique women and brought us together as a family.

As a theatre educator and a director myself I truly respect the way you ran rehearsals. Even though time was of the essence you never neglected taking time to let us to build a community within our cast and crew and bond. I’ll never forget the “roses and thorns” we’d share before each rehearsal and show or the ensemble building activities we took part in as a cast. Getting to know each and every one of my cast mates and production team “off stage” made all the difference in my experience with this production.

As a full time public school teacher, I never thought I’d be able to be part of a show during the school-year but because you were such a pro at scheduling and utilizing rehearsal time to wisely I was able to be a part of this unforgettable experience. I’d look forward to attending rehearsal each day because I know I was going to be surrounded by a director and a cast that supported me, no matter how difficult and taxing my workday was.

I never saw a director work so hard to make her vision happen, not only her artistic vision on stage but also her vision to give back to the female community. You succeeded in your vision and then some. You set a high bar and supported us in rising to the occasion. Thank you for helping me to grow as a performer and as a contributing member of the female community.

With deep gratitude and respect,

Erica Giglio 

(The Woman Who Loved To Make Vaginas Happy)


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From Quenna...

As part of the follow-up report for the V-Day campaign, I asked the cast to detail how the project impacted their lives (if they wished to contribute). Once again, these women blew me away. Their testimonials were so heartfelt and beautiful, I asked if I could share them. It's easy to understand the positive impact that our fundraising had on our beneficiary organization, but it's hard to grasp how the making of the actual production greatly influenced the lives of those involved.  

Over the next few days I'll be posting some of the cast testimonials, I encourage you to leave a comment. We'd love to hear your feedback!   -Andrea

Quenna's Testimonial:

Working on this V-Day production of The Vagina Monologues has been a huge inspiration for me in several ways. I have been reminded of the power that women have, and that theatre has, to effect positive change in the lives of others, which is something that this production team and cast has re-inspired me to do. This has confirmed and re-invigorated my passion that I don't just want to make and be involved in commercial theater, but I want to make and be involved the kind of theater that invokes positivity and social change into our everyday lives, that reaches out and touches the lives in someone in need of a good laugh, hug, or cry and provides it for them.

To that end, Andrea guided us to form a cast and crew that provided just that. And because we were able to build such an encouraging community (of all women!), we were able to extend the love of our community to our audiences. This process has taught me more about the power of community than I have known in a long time, and for that I am extremely grateful to Andrea and the rest of the cast and crew.

-Quenna

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