PRO-LIFE: A Solo Performance of My Own Design

Abstract

Cheryl is an unexpected voice of feminine fortitude in a small chapel in a small town in the middle of nowhere ‘Merica - and she needs your help. This short play is a modern nod to The Janes who ran an underground abortion network in the 60s and 70s. Beyond its feminist themes, Pro-Life asks the audience to consider how they show up for one another in times of crisis and what makes a life worth living. This thesis details my process in gathering inspiration, information, and imaginings and how I used what I learned in graduate school to write this short play. I will also note the challenge of a global pandemic when rehearsals and performances were scheduled to take place.