Devil in a Box by Sarah Jane Johnson

A powerful, fast-paced look at the sexual assault of a young American woman in a foreign country, “Devil in a Box” is a one-woman performance collage of dance, conceptual movement, and poetry that embraces the art of personal story.  Bringing victimization, survival, and courage to the stage, Sarah Jane Johnson reveals the narrative of a woman who experiences the extraordinary loss of Self when she is ambushed by the horrors of rape.  Serious testimonial intertwines with humor as Sarah Jane confronts her audience with tough topics: HIV prevention medication, international courts, prison, and the death penalty.  Her story honestly portrays how deeply sexual assault can affect every aspect of a survivor’s life from writing in a personal diary to caring for a family to pursuing a career. 

Sarah Jane's fiery spirit has been strengthened by the ability to share her words and bring to life statistics, such as how 1 out of every 3 women worldwide is a victim of rape.  This realistic approach to educating students on sexual assault leaves a lasting impression.  Audiences not only gain insight into the complicated arena of feelings, thoughts, and actions in the aftermath of an assault, but they are compelled to consider all facets of a crime.  Gripping the heart of the issue, Sarah Jane’s story and energy force students to pay attention and reconsider what they think they know.  “Devil in a Box” brings into focus the need for awareness, communication, support, and prevention education in our schools and communities.  Sarah Jane’s performance becomes a conduit for such action.

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