How a Kamloops ‘stripsical’ is trying to combat misogyny

KAMLOOPS – Performers from Kamloops's burlesque scene are getting ready to hit the stage next week for a live show that will take a look at the issues women face in public and through online communication.

The production of It All Started with a Dick Pic: The Stripsical byCoco Creme Burlesque will explore gender inequality through a live performance at the Hydra Arts Festival in Kamloops. Instead of breaking out into song and dance, performers will break out into striptease and dance.

“As women, on a daily basis we face a lot of misogyny and it’s sad because its just part of our daily process,” says one of the show’s performers Alix Dolson. “This show isn’t just about the dick pic, we kind of use that as the catalyst to explore the misogyny women face in public and online."

She explained how unsolicited nude pictures from men is something both writers and performers involved with the play have experienced in real life, especially through online dating forums.

“It hard to feel good about yourself when that’s being thrown at you,” Dolson says.

The play will be told through live narration and include vocal recordings of real conversations women have had with men online.

“We wanted to provide some commentary on some of the garbage women face,” Dolson says. “We do some vocal recordings, just to highlight some of the disgusting interactions women deal with.”

The play is for an audience 19 and older, but Dolson encourages people who think they may not be comfortable with it, to give the play some consideration.

“It’s not your typical production and it’s not about hating men,” Dolson says. “It’s not for everyone but I think a lot of people would be surprised with how comfortable they might be with it.”

The entire production was produced and written by women and features an all-female cast.

One thing Dolson wants to make clear is that the show isn’t about attacking men but sending a message to those who engage with women inappropriately.

“If you’re the type of guy that sends unsolicited dick pics, then maybe you might be offended," Dolson says.

The shows runs next week on May 11, May 12 and May 19 at the Actor Workshop Theatre at Thompson Rivers University as part of the first Hydra Performing Arts Festival. Tickets can be purchased online here.

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