‘Cutting off a foot with a chainsaw’: menstruation is also cancellation
The article discusses a new play that reflects on the concept of 'cancellation' in the context of sexual abuse allegations against a Catalan theatre director.
The article brings attention to the play 'Tallar-se un peu amb una motoserra' (Cutting off a foot with a chainsaw), written and directed by Bàrbara Mestanza. This play is inspired by a real-life case involving a Catalan theatre director accused of sexual abuse and misconduct by multiple women. The story centers around two journalists who, after the allegations become public, are drawn into the tumultuous effects that ensue, particularly highlighting the director's suicide attempt. This narrative captures the complexities surrounding the culture of cancellation and the difficulties faced by victims seeking justice and reparation.
Mestanza's work dives into the ongoing discussion around the impact of abuse against women, touching on themes of public perception, support systems within the community, and generational differences in response to such controversies. The play is marked by a striking visual style, predominantly red, which symbolizes themes of violence and menstruation, reinforcing its critical exploration of female experiences. The use of monochromatic stage design, crafted by Albert Ventura, creates an abstract environment that serves to underscore the intensity of the narrative.
Through this theatrical piece, the author not only seeks to provoke thought and discussion around the culture of cancellation but also aims to analyze the personal and societal implications of such accusations, questioning both the accountability of the accused and the potential paths to healing for survivors. The play ultimately acts as a microcosm of larger societal issues, reflecting ongoing attitudes towards gender, power dynamics, and the complexities involved in addressing past wrongs in the public domain.