Review: Deafinitely Theatre’s The Vagina Monologues – A Bold Celebration of Voice, Womanhood, and Visibility

Last night I had the privilege of experiencing The Vagina Monologues by Deafinitely Theatre, directed by Paula Garfield, as it embarks on its UK tour. Originally written over 20 years ago by V (formerly Eve Ensler), this powerful collection of monologues remains as urgent and necessary today as it ever was – perhaps even more so.

Performed in British Sign Language by an extraordinary cast of Deaf and hearing women and non-binary people, the production brought these stories to life with humour, raw honesty, and deep tenderness. Each monologue gave voice to experiences so often silenced: sexuality, pleasure, menstruation, birth, ageing, identity, violence, and liberation. Some made the audience laugh, while others brought sadness, and many sparked an aching sense of recognition.

What made this production truly remarkable was how it centred Deaf women’s experiences, integrating BSL seamlessly and beautifully throughout the performance. The staging allowed signed and written words to coexist, amplifying the emotional resonance of each story and making the show accessible to both Deaf and hearing audiences. It felt revolutionary to witness these stories told in a way that truly included everyone, and it reminded me how vital it is that theatre reflects the full diversity of our communities.

One standout moment for me was I Was There in the Room, which described the birth of a grandchild in detail and pure wonder. It was performed with such vulnerability and strength that it left the audience completely raptured.

Though these monologues were written decades ago, their themes remain heartbreakingly relevant in 2025. The ongoing fight for gender equality, reproductive rights, and an end to gender-based violence means these stories are far from outdated instead, they continue to open up essential conversations, challenge stigma, and create spaces where women and non-binary people can see their truths represented without shame.

Most importantly, this production felt like a celebration. A celebration of womanhood in all its forms. A celebration of bodily autonomy and pleasure. A celebration of voices that will not – and should not – be silenced.

If you have the chance to see The Vagina Monologues by Deafinitely Theatre on its UK tour, take it. Go with an open heart and be ready to laugh, reflect, and leave feeling more connected to yourself and those around you. This is theatre at its most powerful: inclusive, unapologetic, and deeply human.

About the author: Boudicca Woodland

Boudicca moved to Exeter in 2007 from London with her partner (now husband) after making a list of requirements – a theatre, a cinema, decent Sunday lunch pubs, excellent coffee shops, and access to good food. Exeter has not let her down in the slightest and in fact has encouraged her to explore lots of different food events and also locally sourced, seasonal, food more than ever before. 

Originally from an arts administration background, Boudicca now runs One Mile Bakery Exeter from her St Thomas home where she bakes bread for subscribers and hosts baking classes. 

She has two children who have given themselves the demanding role of Chief Tasters for the bakery!