"Monologues" author to speak at IU auditorium

The spring season of the IU Auditorium will come to a climax April 25.

Eve Ensler, author of the international hit “The Vagina Monologues,” will speak at the auditorium as part of the Ralph L. Collins Memorial Lecture Series.

“We are thrilled to welcome Eve Ensler to the IU campus,” Department of Theatre and Drama chair Jonathan Michaelsen said. “In choosing her to be the 2013 Ralph Collins Lecturer, we are committed not only to providing theater and drama students the opportunity to interact and learn from an outstanding playwright, but also Ensler will have much to offer many other disciplines at IU. Her record of social activism is remarkable, and she is internationally known for her work. She will also speak meaningfully to many in the Bloomington community, making this a wonderful town and gown event.”

Ensler’s “Vagina Monologues” adaptations have experienced sold-out runs in Broadway, London, Mexico City and Paris. Current versions exist in 48 languages and are performed in 140 countries.

Since releasing “Monologues” in 1996, Ensler has become an activist. Her primary activist creation is “V-Day,” a global movement to stop violence against women and girls.

“We are proud to partner with the School of Theatre and Drama to present such an important voice in the fight for women’s rights worldwide,” IU Auditorium Director Doug Booher said. “Ms. Ensler’s role as a playwright, artist and activist has been uniquely influential, and we look forward to sharing her experiences and insights with our students and the Bloomington community.”

Following her lecture, Ensler will participate in a 60-minute meet-and-greet and book signing opportunity in recognition of her upcoming publication “In the Body of the World: A Memoir,” set for widespread release April 30. Audience members will be able to purchase the book before it is released to the general public.

The event will be free and open to the public.