Venus

The Olney Theatre Center presents Venus by Suzan-Lori Parks, directed by Eve Muson. Lured by hucksters from her South African home, 20-year old Saartje Baartman embarks on an exhibition tour through London. The exhibition? Herself. With the promise of riches dancing in her eyes, Baartman becomes the “Venus Hottentot,” a freak in a circus sideshow. Profound and deeply moving, Pulitzer Prize winner Suzan-Lori Parks’ searing look at exploitation is surprisingly funny with the style and wit of a classic vaudeville show.