Operation Lysistrata

On the 4-year anniversary of the Iraq War, come and see the story of two women who galvanized the theatrical community into a worldwide anti-war protest based on the ancient Greek play, Lysistrata.

In the winter of 2003, two actresses had the idea to perform simultaneous readings of the ancient Greek anti-war play as a way to protest against the preemptive strike on Iraq. The themes of male dominance, proclivity toward war and ridicule of dissent in the 2,400 year-old play are such uncannily relevant themes in today’s climate that word of the event resonated around the world, generating over 1,000 readings and performances on March 3, 2003 in all fifty states and 59 countries worldwide – making it the largest single theatrical act of dissent in history.

A work-in-progress documentary, Operation Lysistrata is the story of how two women transformed their individual aspirations for peace into a movement which allowed the global community to share in their vision. The film touches on subjects of grassroots activism, conflict resolution, community building and the role of art in a functioning democracy, exploring how these elements combine to empower and engage communities around the world to make a non-violent statement for peace. Operation Lysistrata chronicles this unique historic happening with humor, intelligence and inspiration.

Featuring interviews with F. Murray Abraham, Kathleen Chalfant, Howard Zinn, Viggo Mortensen, Judith Malina and Ellen McLaughlin as well as the project’s founders, Kathryn Blume and Sharron Bower.

Director Michael Patrick Kelly and actors Katheen Chalfant and Ellen McLaughlin lead a discussion following the film.