Girl stuff, with giggles

By Kristin Tillotson, Star Tribune

Last update: March 6, 2009 - 4:01 PM

Getting the lowdown on that time of the month doesn't have to be a curse.

Learning about menstruation has come a long way from the hush-hush little pink pamphlets fifth-grade girls used to hide like contraband to discuss at slumber parties (eeeww! Fallopian tubes -- I'd better not have those in me, etc.). But the Youth Performance Company goes a few steps further -- and funnier -- with "Goddess Menses & the Menstrual Show," playing one time only, free at the Riverview on Monday.

A filmed version of the young theater troupe's stage production, it features several teen girls playing various characters, from a girl gang of superheroes called "The Flow Squad" to lifesize Barbies. The skits, designed to take the embarrassment and anxiety out of periods, also work in a few clever jabs at snotty superficiality. Much over-the-top silliness, complete with several costume changes, is punctuated with reassuring tips and "been there, sister" commiseration. There's a spoof on old-timey instructional videos, and advice on how to deal with your monthly "friend" at summer camp and deflect teasing from boys. It's recommended for ages 11 plus, but tweeners (ages 9-12) whose moms think they're ready to see it together will get a kick out of this, and it may kick-start some useful conversation as a bonus.

5:30 p.m. Monday, Riverview Theater, 3800 42nd Av. S., Mpls. Free; reservations suggested at 612-623-9080. E-mail: info@youthperformanceco.com.