A screaming Karina Barros ran on stage with a look of pleading terror in her eyes, the environment adopted an air of lament as she left imaginary flowers on the tombs of her husband and children.
This was her representation of activist Rufina Amaya, the only survivor of the massacre of El Mozote, El Salvador.
Women's Week started off with a fusion of culture, folklore and music Monday night at Emens Auditorium, celebrating the lives of three important Latin American women with the performance of Barros and Core Ensemble.
Senior Spanish education major Jennifer Rusher said performance helped her see how liberating it is to be a woman in today's society.
"The performance was wonderful," she said. "The Core Ensemble did an amazing job as well as the actress. She showed such passion in the portrayal of the three women."
Tres Vidas, a production by the Core Ensemble celebrates the life of Frida Kahlo, Mexico, Rufina Ayama, El Salvador, and Alfonsina Storni, Argentina. Adam McLachlan, administrative coordinator of the women's studies program, said the performance influenced students, giving a historical and artistic context.
"It brings art to them," he said. "Art that we don't have just lying around here in Muncie. To bring them all the way from Florida is a special thing. I think the people that came really benefitted and had a rich experience."
Kari Schultz, junior Spanish major, said she believed the way Barros acted fit well with how all three women had developed in their society.
"It's probably one of the best stage performances I've seen ever," she said. McLachlan said the music was moving and brought up memories of a friend who lived in Chile and had recently passed.
Women's Week continues with more events until Saturday. McLachlan said he hoped Women's Week helps students learn why women's achievements have to be celebrated.
"We hope that we move," he said. "Even if it is one person, to make them understand and celebrate women's achievements."
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