PROVIDENCE, RI. (AP) – A month after Providence College’s ban of the popular play “The Vagina Monologues” sparked protests, students are planning an off-campus performance.

Eve Ensler’s play, based on discussions with 200 girls and women about their feelings for their anatomy, includes sections about homosexuality, orgasms and rape. It has been performed in all 50 states and around the world since it debuted on Broadway a decade ago.

The play is often performed around Valentine’s Day to raise money for groups battling date rape, domestic violence and related problems.

But a number of Catholic colleges have banned the play, saying it conflicts with church teachings.

Providence College’s president announced last month that it would not be allowed there this year.

“A Catholic university that sponsors a production of The Vagina Monologues’ would be running at odds with its Catholic mission by promoting and providing time, space and money … to a production that is so deeply antithetical to the way Catholics think about sex,” the Rev. Brian Shanley said earlier this month.

The play was performed at Providence College during the past four years. But the last two years’ performances were held in small venues and no advertising was allowed.

Students who support the play protested after Shanley announced his decision last month. Then they sought an off-campus location for the show.

“Father Shanley’s decision set a precedent that certain viewpoints are not allowed to be talked about on campus, and that diverse mindsets are not accepted here – and that’s especially troubling at a religious institution that preaches open-mindedness and acceptance,” said senior James Maginot, who is one of the play’s crew members.

A performance is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 2 at Beneficent Congregational Church. Church administrator Betsy Aldrich Garland said the church was happy to be able to help the students.

“The Beneficent Church believes in freedom of speech, women’s rights and education,” she said.

Providence College spokeswoman Pat Viera said administrators have no problem with an off-campus performance.

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Information from: The Providence Journal, http://www.projo.com/

AP-ES-02-20-06 0844EST