In response to the possible war with Iraq, ETSU will be presenting a reading of Lysistrata, a Greek play opposing war, on March 3 at 3:30 p.m. in the Cave located in the Culp Center.
Lysistrata, a Greek comedy written by Aristophanes in 5th century B.C., tells the story of women from opposing states who united to end the Pelo-ponnesian War by refusing to sleep with their men until they agreed to lay down their swords.
Powerless in their society, with too many of their sons and husbands being slaughtered in battle, the women take the only tactic available to them: a sex strike.
Although this is not the tactic used today, the humorous play is meant to raise the question of what individuals can do on a local level to peacefully protest war.
Sponsored by Women’s Studies Program, Campus Greens, the Theatre Division and the department of human development and learning, Lysistrata will demonstrate opposition to the war and a desire for peace.
“There are times we must defend ourselves and there are times when we must think about ‘why not peace?'” said Pat Cronin, associate professor of theatre.
“But most important of all, we must participate in the freedoms that we have to read, and to celebrate the genius of this play is one of them. And to do so with millions of other people worldwide, some of whom must read the play in secret for they would be killed otherwise — that is what this event is all about — communion and celebration of humanity.”
On Monday, 780 groups in 43 countries and in all 50 states in the United States will be participating in the reading of this play celebrating life.
A single rehearsal for ETSU’s production will be held on Saturday, March 1, at 11 a.m. in the Cave. There are parts for 30 participants and hopefully everyone who shows up for the rehearsal will receive a part.
The reading is free and open to the public. Those interested in participating should contact Amber Kinser, director of women’s studies at 439-7571 or e-mail Cronin at patcronin0@aol.com.
“Theatre serves multiple functions in any society,” Kinser said. “On Monday around the world people will use it as an act of dissent. We hope the Cave will be filled with dissenters, with those who want to add their own voice to the collective voice opposing the war with Iraq.

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