Massachusetts Daily Collegian

A free and responsible press serving the UMass community since 1890

A free and responsible press serving the UMass community since 1890

Massachusetts Daily Collegian

A free and responsible press serving the UMass community since 1890

Massachusetts Daily Collegian

Laugh-out-loud comedy with a point

Do you find yourself worrying too much about life, love, sex, spirituality and death? If you do, then consider yourself among the majority of struggling individuals terrified of these things that leave us unable to sleep at night.

But what if those daunting questions of whether or not he or she likes you, if your relationship is going anywhere, or even the most embarrassing taboo questions about sex and sexuality could be explored? Tomorrow at Bowker Auditorium, critically acclaimed solo performance artist Steviejay will present an evening of comedic counseling “Life, Love, Sex, Death…And other Works in Progress.”

While sexuality has easily been categorized as being gay, straight, or bi-sexual there is an entire landscape of gray area that we cannot define. Can we label sexuality? Or must we first realize who we are and what we love?

“The show delves into the struggles we all go through as human beings, to live honestly and passionately – to love fearlessly, and to reach out to people we’re attracted to, even when we’re scared,” said Steviejay about his work in a telephone interview with the Massachusetts Daily Collegian.

After five years of developing his monologues and soulful skits, Steviejay has created a solo performance that has been presented in London and Scotland and is now the stable of his tour of colleges and progressive venues around the country. Drawing on his life experiences, Steviejay has compiled uncensored, humorous stories, recognizing that serious issues can be discussed more effectively through the medium of comedy. He believes that his very own personal incidences compiled into a series of “Vagina Monologues” are meaningful, and realistic when performed this way.

“We are more relaxed in a humorous atmosphere making awkward themes become more fun and palatable,” he said.

When asked Steviejay what drives him to this kind of work he said, “It is a blast to make people laugh and think outside the box at the same time. The show also throws the concept of sexual labeling out the window and I’m more than happy to provide that service for people! There is so much grief about sexual orientation nowadays – and what a psychic drain that is, distracting us from what really matters.”

Steviejay said intimate relationships are difficult for all people – it’s a universal struggle.

“As far as I’m concerned, the key question is not whether one loves a man or a woman, but whether one loves at all.”

Audience members have repeatedly told Steviejay that before seeing his play, they were concerned about their relationship and after watching the more than therapeutic performance, they felt as if a new door had been opened in there lives.

“Obviously there’s something about this material that hits a nerve in people,” he said. “The show cuts through all the ancestral shame and guilt we’ve inherited. In 90 minutes, you see one person who’s funny, smart, awkward, confident, sexual, embarrassed, angry, scared, on and on. Through outrageous humor and naughtiness, the play offers a glimpse of accepting all parts of oneself – the good, the bad, and the ugly. And that’s what has people returning to this show – they’re experiencing their own long-lost love for themselves. I’m sure of this.”

This emotional roller coaster is aimed at leaving students with a better understanding of not only themselves but the desires of all people as well. Although the material is generally suited for college-aged students, everyone can benefit from it.

“This is definitely a show for everyone, for people from all walks of life – all ages, sexual orientations, as it explores the universality of the human experience,” Steviejay said.

“Laughing Out Loud” is hosted by The Stonewall Center and begins at 8 p.m. sharp with StevieJay. San Francisco stand-up comedian Marilyn Pittman follows. For more information be sure to check out StevieJay’s website at http://www.steviejay3.com/. A visit to the website may be just the preparation one will need before going to Saturdays “multi-shakra extravaganza!”

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