when it happens to you
When It Happens To You is based on Tawni’s memoir about the unquantifiable damage her daughter suffered following a brutal sexual assault. The US Production debuted in November of 2019 and The London Production debuted in August of 2024. When It Happens To You is under consideration for a video capture to be used as an “Orientation Piece” for incoming college students at universities here in the United States and abroad. The reception of the play and the power of its message can help reduce the alarming statistics of sexual assault at universities throughout the land.
what the audience is saying
“When It Happens to You by Tawni O’Dell is a raw, urgent, and deeply human portrayal of the ripple effects of sexual violence. As someone who leads a survivor-centered organization and walks alongside countless students and families navigating the aftermath, this film felt personal. It doesn’t just tell a story—it honors the truth that too many carry silently. What struck me most was how it captured the heartbreak, the anger, and the quiet strength required to survive what should never have happened. Tawni’s work reminds us that healing is not linear, justice is not always served perfectly, but silence must never be the final word. This play is necessary – especially now.”-Kenyora Johnson, MSW, CEO, End Rape On Campus
”The play is mesmerizing, the acting superb, the writing even better. A. true work of art. Leading lady is perfectly cast and the dialogue is so true to life. I couldn’t stop nodding my head! I envied that girl having a mother who cared when my own mother blamed me because I wore mini skirts. Thank you for making it available.”-Survivor
“Powerful. Painful. Maddening. Brave. Thank you.”-Susan B. Sorenson PhD, Writer, Professor, University of Pennsylvania
“Thank you for creating this glimpse of the reality of everyone affected by SA. I’ve been a primary and secondary survivor. The mother’s perspective hit me so hard. When my daughters told me they had been assaulted I damn near lost my mind. So many thoughts went through my mind, mostly those of inadequacy for not protecting my babies. I felt feelings of rage so much so that I had to be really mindful around my daughters not to show this in fear of any hope for recovery would come through from my initial reactions. In both of my daughters situation the abuser was someone in their circle of trust. I wanted to do something to eliminate their fears of having to face that individual ever again. I went so far as to consult someone about eliminating these individuals. I realized quickly that this was not the answer. I felt powerless. I ached so much for them. I wanted them to have justice. That will never come as neither of them want to be dragged through court and be re-traumatized. Your play opened up some old wounds for me, but being in therpy and working on my recovery has been paramount to my healing and that of my children. Thank you for your courage to write and make this happen.”-Melodi Allison, Prevention Educator/Victim Advocate Sexual Assault Services of Northwest New Mexico, Mom, Sister, Survivor