KCACTF Region IV - Festival 51

Bloodroot - a new play developed by the women's writing project at Liberty University.

Begun as a response to the challenge to create more roles for women, this play brings together six different histories of women from the Clinch Mountain area in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains.  Ranging from the  1940's back to 1755, the tales of the strong-willed and determined women who helped shape our country are explored in this thoughtful and provocative narrative.

From some of the playwrights -
I initially joined this project because it sounded like a great story to be a part of and I wanted a great résumé builder. Seeing a piece of work come together from so many different minds and the stories of beautifully strong women of our history was so inspirational. The best part of this entire process is looking into the eyes of those playing these women, embracing the connection that these women have with each other, and uniting it with our own stories of who we want to be. I hope that all who watch this show see the heartbreak, the devastation and learn to find the courage and resilience that these women found for themselves. - Sarah Beattie
This project was special because of the passion behind it - from our first meeting to our final read-through, every woman in the room was ready, willing, and excited to be telling these stories. During the process of researching and writing, I was constantly surprised by the bravery and strength shown by the women of the Clinch Mountain area. This play can only contain a small fraction of the many, but these are voices that deserve to be heard and remembered.
- Kristin Lindquist
I have learned so much and loved every moment of it! It was priceless to see all the girls in this project come together to create. When I first got involved I didn’t realize the scale of it, but I am so glad I was able to be so involved because I have learned so much about myself as a creative person and about the other women in this department. One of my favorite moments was seeing the scenes on their feet for the first time. It was like all the imaginations in my head were coming to life, and I am now hooked on the magic of playwriting. I always laugh when I remember where my scene fi rst started to where it is now. It is scary and humbling to play a character that I’ve written, but I wouldn’t trade this experience.
- Laura Falcione