Venus vs Modernity is an emotional, hilarious and poetic musical and layered journey into the life of one of the most important women in South African history.
It showcases the talent of performers Anne Masina (Venus) and Lebo Mashile (Saartjie).
The musical was officially launched on September 18 to a full house of theatre makers, artists, media personalities and art lovers with great success. It will be staged until September 28.
Directed by Pamela Nomvete and Koleka Putuma, the show marks award-winning poet Mashile’s first foray into writing and producing a full-length theatrical work.
It also marks the acting debut of world-class, classically trained opera singer Masina, who co-stars in the play alongside Mashile in the title role of Venus.
Venus vs Modernity tells the story of South African icon Saartjie Baartman, whose horrific experiences of exploitation on account of her ample posterior has become a reference point for black women’s body image and representation worldwide.
It takes to the stages at The Barney Simon and performance times are Tuesdays to Saturdays at 8.15pm and on Sundays at 3.15pm.
For bookings, contact Anthony Ezeoke 011 832 1641 ext 203 / 083 246 4950, Magret Charova on 011 832 1641 ext 326 / 079 656 2340 or Jabulisile Mofolo 011 832 1641 ext 204 / 083 203 0531.
