University Theatre puts spotlight on Iraqi womenSept. 7, 2009 KALAMAZOO--Western Michigan University opens its 2009-10 theatre season by examining the lives of contemporary Iraqi women in "9 Parts of Desire," which premieres Thursday, Sept. 24, at York Arena Theatre in WMU's Gilmore Theatre Complex.
Playwright Heather Raffo explores a cross-section of Iraqi women in this vivid play: a sexy painter, a radical Communist, doctors, exiles, wives and lovers. This piece delves into the many conflicting aspects of what it means to be a woman in Iraq. It's a timely meditation on the ancient, the modern and the feminine in a country overshadowed by war. As Americans question their place in Iraq, "9 Parts of Desire" offers insight into the country's culture. Enlightening and powerful, this show opens up a dialogue between the East and West, one that will continue after each performance with a discussion featuring director and Professor Emeritus D. Terry Williams and various special guests who have served as advisors on the production. General admission seating for "9 Parts of Desire" at York Arena Theatre is $20, $15 for senior citizens and WMU employees, and $5 for students. Tickets are available by calling (269) 387-6222, online at wmutheatre.com, or by visiting the Gilmore Theatre Complex Ticket Office, Miller Auditorium Ticket Office or downtown Kalamazoo's Epic Center Box Office. Group discounts are available. Media contact: Emily Duguay, (269) 387-3227, emily.duguay@wmich.edu WMU News |