Learning can be done in a multitude of settings and experiences and Extremities, a play by the No Refund Theater, is an example of this.

Extremities, a play that deals with the topic of rape and rape awareness, will be performed this weekend.

"Extremities has a lot to it, many levels, many ideas, much room for exploration," director Blythe Hart (junior-theatre) said.

However, the play may not be for the shy or easily offended. The topic is strong and touches on controversial issues.

"The language of the play is incredibly graphic, lots of cursing and some very distinct rude slang for various sexual things," Hart said.

Kelly Dunn (freshman-communications) plays the lead role of Marjorie, who is victimized by a rapist named Raul. However, both characters in this play are described as both victims and survivors.

"They are all victims; they are all survivors," Hart said. "They have moments of strength and weakness. They all, in the end, leave the play changed irrevocably."

Nevertheless, this is not just a play about sexual violence. In Extremities, the characters' actions and reactions are analyzed.

"Extremities is different because it's not just a rape play," assistant director Mary Shaw (sophomore-biological anthropology) said. "It really explores the people involved, their reactions and their individual views of what is happening, not just the rape."

The sensitive topic tackled by this play is often difficult and awkward to talk about, but Dunn said this play is unique because it doesn't hold back.

"Many times, the subject of rape and its consequences are tiptoed around, however in Extremities the audience is forced to deal with it head on," she said.

This play tells a story and educates the audience on the emotions dealing with a rape situation, which, unfortunately, a lot of people can relate to.

"Although the play takes on powerful and important moral issues, it doesn't preach," said Jack Patrick Rodgers (senior-film/video), the stage manager. "It's about people who are flawed, human, who don't know the right answers, and most importantly, are often unable to get past their prejudices."

By being a part of this production the cast has learned a lot about rape and the serious effects it has on the victims and everyone involved and they hope the audience will also learn from watching the play.

"I learned the importance of talking and communicating on a topic such as this and how essential it is that we continue to keep open forums so that young girls know there is somewhere to go," Dunn said.

Extremities will be performed at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday in 111 Forum and, like all NRT productions, it is free. After the Friday performance there will be an open discussion in 111 Forum to discuss reactions to the play and sexual violence in general.