Watch Ruined at Arena Stage!

In Support of the Women of the Congo, Friends of the Congo, in partnership with Arena Stage Theater and the Pulitzer Prize winning play Ruined, a Play honoring the struggles and triumph of Congolese women present a special Mother's Day fundraiser for women in the Congo who have been victims of rape and sexual violence.

The fundraiser will be chaired by Dr. Yvonne Seon and Ambassador Shirley Barnes, Former U.S. Ambassador to Madagascar. This special presentation of the play is highlighted by a pre-play reception featuring Congolese cuisine, music, and performers. Cynne Simpson of Channel 7 News will be the Mistress of Ceremony. Special performances will be made by songstress Navasha Daya of Fertile Ground and Congolese performer Deja Belle. Renowned author Marita Golden will share a literary treat and students from Duke Ellington School of Arts will dedicate a special poem to the women of the Congo.

Local entrepreneur extraordinaire Juanita Britton of BZB International will share with the reception attendees why she is standing up for the women of the Congo. The Mayor of Washington, DC, city council members and Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton are all invited to celebrate in this expression of Congolese culture and stand up for the women of the Congo.

Following the play, the two Congolese beneficiaries of the fundraiser namely the Association of Widows and Congo Restoration along with members of the cast will participate in a post play discussion and reception.

Click here to listen to the PSA for the Fundraiser.

When: May 8th from 5:30 P.M. – 10 P.M.

Where: Arena Stage

1101 Sixth Street, SW

Washington, DC 20024

Email: info@friendsofthecongo.org

Website: http://congoarena.com or www.friendsofthecongo.com

Ticket Purchase: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/167649

Facebook Event Page: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=190884990948307