What Every Girl Should Know

by Monica Byrne

performed at Boston College, January 26th-29th, 2017

scenic design by Kathryn Sullivan

lighting design by Russ Swift

costume design by Julia James

sound design by Ted Kearnan

props design by Joe Stallone

I have always been inspired by the stories of young women. This play allowed me to dig deep into what it means to be a girl in the world, especially at a time when young women (particularly “troubleseome” ones like the girls in the play) had very few options and even less information. As they learn more about the work of Margaret Sanger, they learn more about themselves and the world they hope to create. As the world of their imaginations became more vibrant, so too did the world of the play by deliberately adding in more brightly colored props and lighting elements. It was important that we create two distinct worlds; the real world 1914 Catholic reformatory and the magic infused fantasy world of their worship of Margaret Sangar. I wanted to focus heavily on the ways the girls turn their tiny room into the whole world, with all the good and bad that comes with that. They fight fiercely for each other, even when it means they might have to lose each other.

Director’s Note:

When I first read What Every Girl Should Know I fell in love with the play immediately; the story, the characters, and the way that it treats issues not often talked about. I knew that directing this play at a Catholic university would be a risk, but I felt so strongly about the material I proposed the play anyway.

As women, we are not often given the space to discussour sexuality outside of sleepovers filled with hushed tones and giggles, or (if we’re lucky) with our partners in likely equally hushed tones. This play allows us to talk about sex, love, and masturbation in a way that makes them not only accessible, but also acceptable. Despitethat, these subjects are not the focal point of the play. At its core, this play is about relationships, particularly those that give us the strength and courage to follow our dreams and survive tragedy. Individually, these four young women are passionate and curious, but they lack support and guidance. Together, they are an unstoppable force; creating their own world out of nothing but dreams and love for one another.

I hope, that when experiencing this play, you can see yourself in these young women. Even if you don’t agree with everything they say or do, it is undeniable that these girls are like each of us: curious, loving, passionate, and best of all, imperfect.