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Lisa Buch, Ohio University Division of Theater Acting MFA candidate, in rehearsal for her one-woman show-in-progress, “Simple Math.” (Photo by Michaela Chilenski)

Lisa Buch Examines Aftermath of Sexual Assault in ‘Simple Math’

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Sexual assault is never a simple liaison. Memory, time, and neurobiology work together to ensure the event’s ugly, extensive stain.

Ohio University College of Fine Arts Division of Theater MFA Acting candidate Lisa Buch examines the complex emotional aftermath faced by a survivor of sexual assault in her one-woman play-in-progress Simple Math. WOUB’s Emily Votaw spoke with Buch about the writing of the show, what timely elements played a part in it’s creation, and what she hopes audiences will leave her performances with.

“(In Simple Math) I use this example of a tree being cut down — it doesn’t know it’s dead and still sprouts leaves in the spring. There is a tenacity to life, and despite an awful, violent event, and we are strong and can go on,” said Buch. “It doesn’t mean you never get triggered again or don’t have bad days or moments. It means you’ve been through something, and you’re still here.”

Simple Math will be performed in CREATE Space in Putnam Hall on Ohio University’s Athens campus (227 Putnam Hall, 98 East Union Street, Athens) on Saturday, March 3 at 8:30 p.m. and Sunday, March 4 at 2 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Tickets are free, and can be reserved by emailing director Olivia Rocco at or957715@ohio.edu. Both monetary donations and goods for My Sister’s Place will be accepted at all performances. A list of goods requested by the shelter is available here.

Lisa Buch in rehearsal for “Simple Math.” (Photo by Michaela Chilenski)