Ruined brings to reality the atrocities of rape and sexual abuse experienced by Congolese women in the civil war in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It reminds us that no one can remain a bystander in this war; women have become the primary victims of this decade-long armed conflict in which sexual violence is the weapon of choice.
The play begins when a salesman convinces Mama Nadi, the strong-willed owner of a bar and brothel, to take in two new girls - Sophie and Salima. The story centers around the day to day lives of these women and their visitors - rebels, freedom fighters, miners, and businessmen. While Mama Nadi refuses to take sides in the war and orders her clients to leave their weapons at the bar, it quickly become apparent that the war has affected every civilian. Sophie is 'ruined' after being raped and left for the dead and Salima was kidnapped by rebels in her village. Ironically, Mama Nadi comments that at least the fighting lines weren't blurry when Mobutu was in power. It's no longer clear who's fighting for what and who's on what side. Each of these women have a horrific story to tell as victims and survivors of this war, yet somehow they have hope - hope that one day this war will be over.
I sat on the edge of my seat the entire show engrossed by the captivating soliloquies and dialogue. The play is an urgent call to action to fight against sexual violence. In addition, Ruined also gives us a glimpse of the different factors of this conflict such as the race for diamonds, the countless armed groups, and the international community's neglect towards this conflict that perpetuate conflict in this region.
*Ruined is showing at the Manhattan Theatre Club until August 2nd.
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