Clarence Brown Theatre Explores Sexual Violence and Resilience in How to Defend Yourself

Knoxville’s Clarence Brown Theatre Tackles Tough Themes in How to Defend Yourself

This week in Knoxville, the Clarence Brown Theatre is shining a spotlight on a tough but very relevant issue with the powerful play How to Defend Yourself, written by Liliana Padilla and directed by Jayne Morgan. As college campuses grapple with discussions about sexual violence, this show brings a sense of urgency and immediacy to a topic that resonates deeply especially among the student community.

The play follows a group of college students who enroll in a self-defense workshop after a horrific sexual assault leaves their friend, Susannah, in the hospital. Staged in a gymnasium reminiscent of many campus settings, the environment is familiar yet charged with emotion—leading audiences through an exploration of resilience, friendship, and the complexities that arise when discussing sexual violence.

Building Courage in the Face of Adversity

As the beginning unfolds, we meet friends Mojdeh (played by Suniyah (Sunni) Thomas) and Diana (Allison Hahn), who are navigating their first year of college life. They’re joined by other students for this workshop, held by the Zeta Chi sorority as they rally around Susannah’s memory and support each other. The emotions that bubble up during their training are palpable as the characters confront personal insecurities and fears while trying to learn how to protect themselves.

Brandi (Molly Brennan) and Kara (Alana Mara), the workshop leaders, display a variety of encourages that some might see as “peppy,” but we also witness their struggles as they deal with real feelings surrounding the tragedy. There’s Brandi, embracing a leadership role, who quickly learns the importance of recognizing her emotional self-defense, and Kara, whose thoughts of guilt and responsibility add depth to the character and the narrative.

Real Conversations in a Safe Space

The unfolding conversations around sex, consent, agency, and interpersonal relationships shine a light on not just the training but also the characters’ growth. It’s not merely about punches and kicks; it’s about honesty. Whether it’s Diana, the ‘cool-girl’, facing a confusing emotional moment with Mojdeh or Nikki (GG Grigsby) discovering her own voice and strength, the script delivers stirring moments that challenge perceptions and encourage dialogue.

What’s more powerful is how the male characters find their place within this insightful production. Eggo (Jordan Goskowicz) struggles with feelings from past relationships while Andy (Trevor Schmitt-Ernst) tries to come to terms with his observations tied to Susannah’s assault. Their presence complicates the dynamics but also opens the door for healthy conversations about male allyship and the role men play in combating sexual violence.

Physicality Meets Emotional Honesty

One might assume that a play centered around a self-defense workshop focuses solely on physicality; however, it’s the emotional authenticity that makes it resonate. Thanks to the expertise of Fight Director Sam-Claire Bieber and Intimacy Director Casey Sams, the transitions between intense moments of action and heartfelt vulnerability flow seamlessly. The way the actors interact physically, ranging from light-hearted exercises to moments of real conflict, captivates the audience and mirrors the often complex, nuanced world they navigate daily.

Inviting Conversations, Even If They’re Uncomfortable

How to Defend Yourself urges viewers to engage, think, and perhaps even question their own experiences with violence and self-protection. It’s more than just a performance; it’s a call to action. The Clarence Brown Theatre has also partnered with the Sexual Assault Center of East Tennessee, providing additional support and resources for audience members who may find the subject matter particularly difficult.

Catch the Show Before It Ends!

Performances are scheduled to run until November 10, with evening shows at 7:30 PM and Sunday matinees at 2 PM. If you want to witness this relevant piece of art and engage in necessary discussions, you can grab your tickets online or visit the box office at the Clarence Brown Theatre on the UTK campus.

This thoughtful and intense production promises to leave a mark on everyone who attends—a conversation starter, a moment of reflection, and perhaps even a catalyst for change. Don’t miss it!