Vicious Cycle

Activism, academics, and art come together for this one-hour performance, featuring local organizers and students / alumni / faculty of New College of California.


Mary Miller's Thesis Focus:

An analysis of the dynamics of power and control within interpersonal relationships as compared to the patterns of systemic oppression inherent in state structures.


Structure of Piece:

Two support groups, one for struggling activists and one for survivors of domestic violence, are forced to share one room and one facilitator due to federal budget cuts to the community counseling center. The interconnectedness of their experience reveals itself as their stories unfold, exploring themes of and power and control, isolation, and healing. The text is almost completely drawn from the words and experiences of survivors of state harassment and / or domestic violence, interviewed over a one-year period.


Cast / Crew: Alison Burek, Bryan Burgess, Jayden Donahue, Jennifer Eaton, Emily Howard, Mary Miller, Mia Rovegno, David Russo (aka, Rupert), Romy Ruukel, Nat Smith, Janet Upadhye, Manish Vaidya, Helene Vosters