Synopsis

In 1810, a young black woman named Saartje Baartman traveled from South Africa to England in search of fame and riches.  She ended up notorious as the "Hottentot Venus," a sideshow novelty billed as having the "biggest bottom in the world." With a brilliant mix of vaudeville, spectacle and poetry, Pulitzer Prize-winner Suzan-Lori Parks puts her own slant on the story of this provocative figure in a masterpiece of unsettling drama.

Content Advisory

Steppenwolf does not offer advisories about subject matter, as sensitivities vary from person to person.If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects(such as strobe lights or theatrical fog) that might have a bearing on patron comfort, please contact the box office at 312-335-1650.

Watch & Listen

Cast & Artists

The Artists

  • Directed by: Jess McLeod
  • Scene Design by: Scott Davis
  • Costume Design by: Emily Tarleton
  • Lighting Design by: Nastassia Jimenez
  • Sound Design by: Andre Pluess

Program Articles

FIVE MINUTES WITH... Next Up Director Jess McLeod

A short interview with with the Jess McLeod, director of the Next Up show "Venus," with Director of Northwestern University's MFA Directing Program and ensemble member Anna D. Shapiro.

Content Advisory

Steppenwolf does not offer advisories about subject matter, as sensitivities vary from person to person.If you have any questions about content, age-appropriateness or stage effects(such as strobe lights or theatrical fog) that might have a bearing on patron comfort, please contact the box office at 312-335-1650.