GUEST: Ashley Malloy, who has traveled to many campuses playing the part of Rachel Corrie in the theater production of the same name, talks about art, idealism, and her next performance at Vassar College on Nov 2.
We asked Ashley whether it was hard to play the part of Rachel Corrie.
She replied that as an actor, she can't separate herself like that from someone she is playing. Ashley lives Rachel Corrie on stage, and goes through her discoveries, disappointments and fears.
"I have also learned a great deal from her," Ashley said. "I am more political ... and more dedicated to social change."
I had a similar experience just watching the play. The horror is always there in her room, which is the set of My Name is Rachel Corrie. But there is pride too, that this nation could produced someone as dedicated and fearless as she was. Is it the innocence of youth? The idealism that fades as we go through life? But it is there, and white hot, in the words she leaves us. We can do what is moral and right in our lives.
What else is life really for?
See the play when it comes to a campus near you.
-Sunday, November 2 in Poughkeepsie: ”My Name is Rachel Corrie,” live production starring Ashley Malloy, from 7:30 to 9:00 pm in Rockefeller Hall, Room 200, Vassar College, 124 Raymond Ave.
