“The Vagina Monologues” will reclaim the stage at Loyola with cast members hoping to leave the controversy of past years behind.

The V-day event drew national attention last February when the Archdiocese of New Orleans spoke out against Loyola, saying that the monologues “fail to promote the dignity of women,” and “adds to those cultural forces which reduce women to mere sexual objects.”

With the virginity of the production gone, Whitney Bryan, drama and communication senior and president of Alpha Psi Omega, the drama honor society, , is doubtful of any opposition.

“We haven’t been met with any resistance so far,” Bryan said, “but last year the Bishop’s statements were not released until the night before the production, so I guess there’s still time.”

“The Vagina Monologues” are compiled from more than 200 interviews of women recounting memories and describing their sexual experiences. Author Eve Ensler also writes new monologues each year and adds them to the script.

“‘The Vagina Monologues’ are completely different from any other theatrical experience,” said Bryan. “It’s about the beauty of human sexuality and presents it as something that should be embraced. It talks about the dangers that arise, psychological and physical, when you treat sexuality as something dirty or bad.”

Ensler waives all royalties if the proceeds are donated to a women’s charity. Loyola has decided that this year’s proceeds will go to the Metropolitan Battered Women’s Association, a relatively new organization that offers free counseling, shelter and legal aid to battered women.

Bryan said, “since the hurricane, a lot of women’s shelters were severely damaged or forced to close,” and “because they are a new entity, they probably need a lot of support.”

Last year, the performance in Nunemaker auditorium raised more than $2,500 for charity. With this year’s production being held in Roussel Hall, a larger venue, Alpha Psi Omega has the ability to raise more than $4,000 in ticket proceeds alone.

“The Vagina Monologues” will be performed Tuesday, in cooperation with the international college V-day campaign. The show begins at 7 p.m., and ticket prices are $7.

Bryan encourages everyone to come and to get there early because seating is limited.

“You’ll support a great cause and be entertained at the same time.”

Jared Bailey can be reached at [email protected].