Ripon College launches new Bovay’s Study Bar & Mercantile, featuring ‘The Vagina Monologues,’ Feb. 14

A launch party Feb. 14 will kick off Ripon College’s new downtown venture, Bovay’s Study Bar & Mercantile, 329 Watson St.

The play “The Vagina Monologues” will be a highlight. Doors will open at 5 p.m., and the show will begin at 5:30 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. The event is sponsored by the Ripon College Feminists and the theatre department. All are welcome to attend at no charge, but the content is for mature audiences only.

“The Vagina Monologues” comprises a variety of monologues all dealing with an aspect of the feminine experience. It is being presented in support of V-Day, a movement that seeks to end violence against women. During the month of February, groups around the country perform this play to raise money and awareness of these issues. Donations raised from the Ripon event will benefit the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Women’s Center.

Selected members of Ripon students, faculty and staff will participate, including: Michele Wittler, associate dean of faculty and registrar; Meg Carne, special assistant to the president and liaison to the Board of Trustees; Robin Woods, professor of English; Andrea Young, associate professor of mathematical sciences; Mary Unger, assistant professor of English; and Molly Margaretten, associate professor of anthropology.

Bovay’s is a hip, multi-purpose downtown venue adjacent to J’s BBQ. The space includes a high-tech classroom, an office, flexible study space and an event venue that will serve as a retail store and performance area. The space is set to officially open in mid-February.