On Thursday, Feb. 22, CSU’s department of theater and dance opened “Ancestra,” an original female-led production co-written by Holly Holsinger, chair of the theatre department, and Chris Szajbert.
The Story of “Ancestra”
Written to portray the current state of women’s rights, “Ancestra” serves as a celebration of women and explores struggles they faced in both the past and present.
The production transitions between today’s contemporary world and 1853, during which a National Women’s Rights Convention was held in Cleveland, Ohio.
“Ancestra” compares and contrasts events from the historical past with a modern day student journalist, Cora, played by Maddie Mohler, a CSU student and member of the school’s theater department.
Cora is introduced as a young writer who is coming back to university to pursue a master’s in journalism. Her interest in female journalists and passions about the healthcare options surrounding women’s reproductive care leads her into a brutal fight for equality.
Faced with the harsh realities of the real world and a tense relationship with her professor, Cora finds herself in several uncertain situations that take a toll on her mental health.
In between Cora’s journey is that of many historical women who are struggling with the rules of their time being forced upon them. With nowhere to freely speak their minds, the discouraging truths about their lives leads them to develop a society in which they can battle the injustices that surround them.
Although they have different life goals and aspirations, the women are in agreement about one thing: the necessary endeavors needed to gain the right to their own person.
As these past and present events intertwine with each other, a powerful voice looms over the long-lasting fight for women’s rights.
Writer’s Review
“Ancestra” delivers a beautifully powerful message by drawing parallels between the struggles of historical women and that of the aspiring modern student journalist, Cora.
The show dives deep into real-world experiences and messages that may strike some as controversial, but does well to expose the potential and present harm of the healthcare system as it relates to women’s reproductive rights.
Although the content discussed in the play can be difficult to digest, it makes for an informative piece that recognizes the struggles of real women today. With that being said, I don’t see the production as intending to portray those with opposing views about reproductive rights in a negative light, but rather that it highlights the fears and dangers that women face when it comes to such a difficult medical procedure.
I think anyone watching would benefit from the experience, even if your perspective on reproductive care is different from that of the production.
In my opinion, all of the actresses did really well understanding the social and cultural norms surrounding women during the late 1800s. The “Ancestra” dramaturgy team, under the guidance of CSU’s Lisa Bernd, Ph.D., laid out the history within the piece to assist the actors in formulating the historical characters, and you can view their work and gain a deeper understanding of the show by visiting their website.
Similarly, Maddie Mohler (Cora) was exceptional in illustrating the emotions and desires of many women in today’s world. The frustrations presented in her character capture those of real women seeking the healthcare to which they don’t have access.
I found that the music director, Claudia Cromley, did a wonderful job in creating the musical aspects throughout the show, as there were moments I truly felt consumed by their voices.
All of the actresses did an amazing job crafting their presence on the stage, making everything about the experience immersive and captivating.
The show runs from Feb. 22 through March 3 in the Outcalt Theater in Playhouse Square. You can find more information and purchase tickets here.
Cory Conrad 
EveLynne Bruening