February 14, 2002 Seeing, singing, and signing by Blase DiStefano Photo by Joan Marcus

The Vagina Monologues

Debuting off-off-Broadway in 1996, The Vagina Monologues went on to win an Obie Award, but that was only the beginning for this one-woman show. Eve Ensler’s controversial work subsequently sparked a global movement to end violence against women and was staged in theatrical productions around the world, with a host of celebrities participating in the performances. (Ensler performed her show at Theater LaB Houston in 1997.) • The feature-length HBO documentary recaptures the intimacy of the original show, presenting Ensler in a solo performance of her revolutionary play. It also explores the creative impetus behind the show and features Ensler conducting new and revealing "vagina-related" interviews with a cross-section of women, as well as detailing how the play went on to achieve extraordinary popular and critical acclaim. • Before creating The Vagina Monologues, Ensler was curious to know what women thought about their vaginas, and polled friends. Astounded by their replies, she expanded her search to include more than 200 women from all walks of life. • For the HBO special, Ensler interviewed a broad range of women on camera, just as she did prior to writing her play: "What would your vagina say if it could talk?" Ensler asked. Among the replies: "Slow down"; "Oh, no!"; "Accept gifts." • In addition to winning an Obie Award, The Vagina Monologues was nominated for Drama Desk and Helen Hayes awards. Among the celebrities who have participated in performances of the play are Glenn Close, Cate Blanchett, Winona Ryder, Susan Sarandon, Whoopi Goldberg, Lily Tomlin, Kate Winslet, Melanie Griffith, and Calista Flockheart.• Debuts Thursday, Feb. 14, on HBO.

Sad and Pissed

"Sad and Pissed" is a one-woman art show of works by Rachel Hecker. A reception will be held Thursday, Feb. 14, 6—8 p.m. at the Texas Gallery, 2109 Peden, 713/524-1593. The exhibition will run Feb. 1—28 at the gallery. (Click here for more about Hecker and her artwork.)

Sound of Music Karaoke Night

Pull out your guitar and put on your best nun’s gown, or dress as your favorite Sound of Music character and sing songs from the show–it’s "Sound of Music Karaoke Night" at JR’s Bar & Grill. One lucky winner will co-host an actual performance of the Sing-A-Long Sound of Music show; five runners-up will win a pair of tickets. • The "Sound of Music Karaoke Night" starts at 10 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 14, at JR’s Bar & Grill, 804 & 808 Pacific, 713/521-2519. • For more on the Sing-A-Long Sound of Music, click here.

Forbidden Love in the 17th Century

Based on a true story, Love, above the reach of time tells the tale of a love that conquered time, social influences, and tradition. The heroines are two Anglo-Irish noblewomen who fell deeply in love at a time when same-sex relationships were considered unthinkable and evil. In an unprecedented move, these women eloped to the Welsh countryside and lived in an undisguised romantic relationship for 50 years, becoming internationally famous while doing so. • Befitting Valentine’s Day, author Anna M. Curren is visiting Houston to promote her novel. She will be signing her book on Thursday, Feb. 14, at 7 p.m. at Barnes and Noble, 7626 Westheimer, 713/786-6016. (Her other stops at Texas Barnes and Noble venues: Plano on Feb. 9, Irving on Feb. 11, Austin on Feb. 12, and San Antonio on Feb. 13.) • Love, above the reach of time is published by Ladyepress.