A powerful message against sexual assault and bullying is the focus of a staged reading of "SLUT: The Play" by Katie Cappiello, scheduled for April 12 at NDSU. The performance is set for 7 p.m. in the Memorial Union Century Theatre.

The play explores the assault and shaming of a 16-year-old girl. It also examines the responses of girls within her community.

"The setting could be anywhere. The play is a call to action against sexual assault, bullying and victim blaming that are prevalent in our culture," explained Regina Ranney, diversity program coordinator.

The performance will be directed by Jessica Jung, NDSU assistant professor of theatre arts, who said she is looking forward to the dialogue the play will provoke. "The play challenges the audience to examine the labels they use when speaking about women," said Jung. "It reminds us that language is powerful — and the labels we use can ingrain or evoke stereotypes that we do not intend. The play asks can our leniency with language and labels lead to sexual violence against women?"

The Equity and Diversity Center, Sexual Assault Prevention and Advocacy, Department of Theatre Arts and NDSU Women and Gender Studies are sponsoring the performance.

It is free and open to the public.

For more information about the reasons the play was created, visit http://sluttheplay.com/why/.

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