The story of a clitoris that doesn't cum and the journey to figuring out a) why, and b) how to fix it
The Clitoris Conundrum (2024)
That's a wrap! Look out for future seasons...
Where: Basement Theatre, Auckland
When: 2-6 April, 2024, 8:00PM
Medium: Theatre with dance and spoken word elements
The Clitoris Conundrum is the story of a clitoris that doesn't cum and the journey to figuring out a) why, and b) how to fix it. It delves into the ripple effects of sexual assault with an “are-you-fucking-kidding-me” comedic lens by blending traditional theatre with dance, drag and the odd spoken word.
The story ventures into some dark places. Exploring the journey of healing from sexual assault and learning to be intimate again. The intention for this play was to be empowering yet also deal with this content gracefully.
This show was unique in that we had a new kind of role to support the cast, crew and audience - an Intimacy Content Manager (Suzy Smith-Roy - sex and relationship therapist). As this was a development season for us, we worked with Suzy to ensure the content was helping and not harming those consuming it. We wanted the audience to leave feeling better off, and not in a dark place. Suzy was available most show nights with a safe space to talk at any point during the show, with another counselor Sophie Richards available some of the nights instead. We opened up each night with a foreword that encouraged anyone to step outside if they felt uncomfortable or needed some air.
The immense positive feedback we received and the sold-out season warms our hearts. Many of you have felt comfortable coming to us to share your journeys, experiences and how it's helped you take a step towards healing. We also heard that it was also appreciated just to feel seen and validated.
Big shot out to every Boosted donor and Creative New Zealand - without you, this show would not have happened!
Stay tuned for what's next for The Clitoris Conundrum...
The Team
- Writer And Executive Producer: Connor Amor-Bendall
- Director: Danika Ciullo
- Producer: Olivia Brinkmann
- Assistant Director And Producer: Nicole Chen
- Stage Manager: Nicole Chen / Olivia Brinkmann
- Choreography: Kayla Paige
- Set & Av Design & Creation: Bekky Boyce
- Intimacy Direction: Ashleigh Waters
- Intimacy Content Management: Suzy Smith-Roy
- Photography: Megan Goldsman
- Lighting Design & Operator: Liam Huxley
- Hair and Makeup: Asrita Singh
- Poster and Graphics: Ari Hughes
- Sound Design: Jess Penson
- Music: Dean Malmberg
- Cast:
- Connor Amor-Bendall - Cameron / Vanessa
- Andrew Cornish - Ariki
- Vena Rose-Lennane - Sam
- Lydia Buckley - Sex Shop Steve, Martha, Therapist, Lover
Resources
We would also like to give special thanks to the following organisations who we look forward to partnering with during this show’s production. If you need help, please contact one of them:
Te Wāhi Wāhine o Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland Women's Centre
Manaaki Tāngata | Victim Support Team
Suzy Smith-Roy (relationship and sex therapist)
Publications: