‘Venus’ tackles issues of body image and perception

The freak shows of the 19th century, bearded lady and all, are back in style — or perhaps they never really disappeared.

As the Department of Dramatic Art’s performance of “Venus” aims to show, the world may still consider some people circus freaks.

Suzan-Lori Parks’ play, which opens tonight, follows the true story of Saartjie Baartman, who was taken from her home in South Africa at the turn of the 19th century only to be displayed in a circus show in Europe as the “Venus Hottentot” because of her bodily proportions.

“People can learn about Saartjie Baartman in history classes, but it’s a totally different experience to see the story of her life brought to stage,” said Candyce Adkins, who plays Baartman in the production.

Director Kathy Williams, a lecturer in the dramatic art department, said she hopes the show will challenge her cast and allow them to grow as performers.

“The use of language, repetition and style of movement you can include in the show leaves a lot of room for exploration,” Williams said.

Cast member Jackson Bloom, who plays the Baron Docteur, said Williams’ directing is part of what made the show so attractive, as well as the story line.

“As an actor, what drew me to this production is that it’s directed by a faculty member,” Bloom said. “I think I had more to gain from working from someone who’s cut their teeth.”

Each of the cast members, Williams said, had a lot to gain by challenging themselves — which Bloom soon learned.

“I think the difficulty of this play is that it’s not written in a linear, realistic style,” he said. “You go about the character in the same way, but the text is less immediately helpful.”

Despite the challenges, Williams said she believes the cast has risen to the occasion in order to put on a stunning show.

“Parks’ use of language and repetition and revision is something new,” she said. “I feel like they’ve really risen to the challenge, and they’ve grown and lived inside of the form I’ve given them.”

The cast said they want the audience to grow from the play as much as they have.

Williams emphasized the play’s relevance to contemporary society.

“It’s a fascinating story of how we’re seen in terms of body image and how we’re perceived isn’t always accurate.”

Bloom said the play aims to engage the audience to best relay these themes.

“Parks wants to remind her audience that there’s a lot of unsavory stuff on stage and the point isn’t to watch other people commit these crimes and think, ‘Oh, that’s really horrible!’” Bloom said.

“The message is that you’re complicit and responsible, and you need to reflect and possibly change,” he said.

“Venus,” an old-fashioned mirror, allows the audience to see its reflection and change some of its negative images.

Contact the desk editor at arts@dailytarheel.com.