On the stage and under the lights, it's as real as it gets for those like Elly MacPhail. "I was not exposed to violence of any sort growing up," she says. MacPhail and other Converse College theater students are not acting, though. The story they're performing this week is the drama playing out right next door. "it's been a real eye opening experience for me," MacPhail says.
"Finding Voice" is a production created by Converse professor, Dr. Elizabeth York. York spent months working with victims of domestic violence in Utah, and used their stories, poems and songs to put on a production, that brought light to the issue. "Women that experience domestic violence literally and figuratively lose their voice," York says. "They lose their ability to voice their issues themselves."
For MacPhail and others, the tale hits very close to home. Many of the words used on stage come from real domestic violence victims in Spartanburg County. "It gives another level of meaning," says MacPhail. "These are real women. These aren't just lines." The statistics are harsh. From 2006 to 2007, the number of abuse victims jumped 12% in Spartanburg alone. Advocates believe Converse's production is exactly what the public needs to see. "It puts a personal face on it, a community face," says Marlene Evans with the Safe Homes Rape Crisis Coalition. "This isn't something that's happening just across the station. This is right here in our own backyard."
Students and staff are hoping the message resonates with many, especially victims. "I hope they're inspired to find help," MacPhail says.
"Finding Voice" will be held Tuesday, March 24 at Converse College at 7:00 p.m. Admission is $10. All proceeds will go to the Safe Homes Rape Crisis Coalition of Spartanburg County.
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