Debra Verdicchio is a long time activist and advocate for women. Her professional stage debut was as a member of our V-Day Sextet last year, and she is rocking the stage for her first ever monologue this year and we couldn’t be happier to have her with us once again!

Q – How long have you been involved in theater?

“I was actively involved in my High School theater program – that was 25 years ago. I’ve been doing theater around the seacoast for a year now.”

Q – What are some of your favorite recent productions?

“There were so many fun roles, but I would have to say my favorite was playing Mrs. Greer in Prescott Park Arts Festivals’ production of ‘Annie’ last summer. It was a thrill for me to be up on stage in front of a live audience!”

Q – Have you performed in the Vagina Monologues before?

“I was part of the Sextet for V-Day 2103.”

Q- What made you want to be involved in V-Day this year?

“It was such an empowering experience to be a part V-Day last year that I had to do it again this year! Such an amazing group of talented women and men all coming together to raise awareness about Domestic and Sexual Violence against women and children.”

Q – Who is the most influential woman in your life?

“I have not one, but many women who are influential and that are in my life, that would be my sisters or “my sissies” we call each other. They definitely have had my back and have supported me when I have been at low points in my life!”

Q – What or who inspires you?

“If there is one person who inspires me it’s me, it’s my niece Racheal. She taught me much more about life then I could ever teach her. She was such an influential young women who was a talented artist and childrens illustrator. She had a great sense of humor and wit that I truly admired. My niece lived her entire life in pain due to a rare skin disorder, yet she never complained. She lived her life according to her terms, she was a feisty girl. In November 2011 Racheals pain came to an end and she is now at peace, yet she continues to be an inspiration to everyone she has ever met and whose life she touched, including myself! I do this monologue in honor of you Rach!”