Searching for a 6 FT Condom!

SALT-N-PEPA REALITY SHOW
Episode #5
Aired: Nov. 12, 2007

Pepa was in control – during this episode and it was a display of slap-stick comedy. First, the girls tapped a Public Service Announcement "Let’s Talk About Sex” for the fifteenth anniversary of Lifebeat, an organization that partners with the music industry to fight AIDS. The organization’s rep loved the PSA so much that he asked Salt-N-Pepa to perform at their next event. I don’t think the guy completed his request before “yes, we would be honored to perform” sprinted out Pepa’s mouth. Salt, looking like a rejected Cinderella - was offended because Pepa didn’t even think to talk it over with her – and thus the story’s conflict is established. Yes, the show feels extremely scripted with a forced conflict before the first commercial break – (I think I saw Pepa reading her lines from the teleprompter) but for this show…it works. Following the ‘scripted’ format – Pepa agrees to handle all the details of the performance as Salt rolls her eyes in that ‘I know you’re going to Forrest Gump your way through this’ manner.

Through a comedy of errors – Pepa pulled the performance together as Salt complained, sighed – and totally doubted Pepa’s ability. According to the scripting format – the protagonist must endure a series of obstacles before achieving his/her goal (to develop ‘rooting’ power in the audience) and Pepa had her obstacles. First, she embarked on a search for a 6ft condom – but they don’t exist. Then, she rehearsed the dancers – using choreography stolen from Magic City – Strip Club. Next, Pepa held a production meeting and took notes with crayon. Finally, she revealed the bathing suit attire for the performance. Salt vetoed Pepa’s outrageous ideas – but complimented her on the effort.

Watching this episode – Pepa’s determination to complete the task was mediocre TV and a little sad. She seemed almost child-like in wanting to prove herself to Salt. Looking frantic and lost in many scenes, you could see the little girl in Pepa – trying to prove herself to others as they doubted her, probably making her feel silly and insignificant. It struck a cord in me because I’ve found myself in that position – until I got tired of working so hard against that debilitating doubting energy of others. It’s draining and destructive. Also, it’s easy to get caught up the negative image others have about you. And that’s where the reality show changes into a full fledge Greek tragedy. The question becomes: “When do you stop trying to prove yourself to others and start believing in yourself?”