In a captivating exploration of history's intersection with contemporary issues, 'The Woman Question' at People's Light Theatre in Malvern, Pennsylvania, delves into the lives of students at the Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, a pioneering institution that opened its doors in 1850. This play, written and directed by Suli Holum, offers a unique perspective on the struggles and achievements of women in medicine, with a cast of characters that reflects the college's diverse student body.
Unveiling the Past, Illuminating the Present
The Woman's Medical College of Pennsylvania, located at Sixth and Arch streets in Philadelphia, was a beacon of progress in an era when women's access to education and professional opportunities was severely limited. It accepted students from all walks of life, regardless of their background, race, or country of origin. Holum's play focuses on the stories of these remarkable women, many of whom faced immense challenges to pursue their dreams.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the play is the diverse cultural backgrounds of the students. Holum highlights the presence of a formerly enslaved woman from South Carolina, an Indigenous woman from the Omaha Tribe of Nebraska, and students from India, Japan, Russia, and Syria. The play imagines the conversations and exchanges between these women, exploring the intersection of traditional medicine and Western medical practices.
For instance, the character of Kei Okami, a Japanese student, arrives in Philadelphia with a deep knowledge of traditional Japanese kampo medical practices. Okami's journey reflects the tension between traditional knowledge and the dominance of Western medicine, a theme that resonates with modern-day debates about the value of indigenous healing practices.
The Contemporary Relevance of Historical Struggles
What makes 'The Woman Question' particularly fascinating is its ability to draw parallels between the struggles of these 19th-century women and the issues faced by women in medicine today. In a recent interview, Holum emphasized the play's urgency and relevance, stating, "This is vibrating with the current moment in a way that feels really, really urgent to me."
One of the key issues addressed in the play is the training of women in medical jurisprudence, particularly in relation to abortion and miscarriage care. Dr. Anna Elizabeth Broomall, an obstetrics instructor at the college, taught a medical jurisprudence class that staged mock trials to prepare students for the legal challenges they might face. This aspect of the play resonates strongly with the ongoing debates and legal battles surrounding abortion rights in the United States.
Just weeks before the play's opening, a pro-life organization called for the enforcement of the Comstock Act, a 153-year-old law that prohibited the mailing of "lewd" and "obscene" items, including birth control. Holum notes the irony of this law, originally intended to control women's fertility, making headlines again in the 21st century. This connection between past and present highlights the ongoing struggle for women's reproductive rights and the relevance of historical context in contemporary debates.
A Play of Joy and Expression
Despite the serious themes it addresses, 'The Woman Question' is not devoid of joy and humor. Holum describes the play as a blend of Louisa May Alcott's "Little Women" and the medical drama "The Pitt." She emphasizes the importance of finding joy in high-pressure environments, noting the evidence of hijinks, costume parties, charades, singing, and poetry in the college's archives. These elements reflect the expressive nature of the individuals involved and add a layer of depth and humanity to the play.
'The Woman Question' runs until May 24 at People's Light Theatre, offering audiences a unique and thought-provoking experience that blends history, drama, and contemporary relevance.
