An online performance and panel discussion of Roe v. Wade 2.0, a satire written by Drama League Award nominee Margaret Vandenburg, will be streamed May 17 at 7 PM, one full day after originally announced, due to technical problems. The reading launches a week of theatrical action in defense of abortion rights.
Directed by Lisa Rothe, the cast will include Jo Chim, Tiffany Clifton, Kathryn Erbe, Joel de la Fuente, Florencia Lozano, Peter McCabe, Carrie Preston, Portia, CJ Wilson, and Johnny M. Wu.
The play dramatizes the Dobbs vs. Jackson Women’s Health Organization oral arguments from December 2021. The Supreme Court’s decision in this case could overturn Roe v. Wade, effectively ending federal protection of abortion rights.
The week, presented by Roe v. Wade 2.0—a collective action troupe of artists and activists—will continue through May 23 with local readings hosted by artists and organizers across the country. Further readings are taking shape in Chicago, Minneapolis, and other cities, and members of the public interested in hosting their own reading are invited to download the script from RoevWade20.com. There is no barrier to entry; anyone can host and support the initiative.
Vandenburg says, “The Supreme Court is more susceptible to public pressure than meets the eye. The more noise we make, the less likely the Court will run roughshod over reproductive rights.…The Roe v. Wade 2.0 Coalition believes in the power of art to mobilize and amplify our voices. We hope this kick-off event will work to encourage participation in this national outcry.”
Actor, producer, and Collective Action Troupe member Florencia Lozano adds, "Our collective initiative poses the question: Can theatre motivate people to action? As storytellers: can we provide immediate, urgent, necessary assistance to the effort to protect Roe v. Wade? Regardless, can we swell our ranks by connecting with people from different professions and walks of life in an effort to strengthen our resolve for the challenges that are sure to follow? Like theatre itself—and like any adventure in life worth taking—ours is a leap of faith into the unknown."
The May 17 reading is pay-what-you-can with donations benefiting The Pink House Fund, a local fund for people seeking abortions at the only remaining clinic in the state of Mississippi, Jackson Women’s Health Organization.
Register for the livestream here and learn more by clicking here. Those with links for the originally announced May 16 reading will be sent a revised link for May 17.
