Signature Theatre announces cast of Venus

Signature Theatre has now announced complete casting for playwright-in-residence Suzan-Lori Parks' Venus, directed by Lear deBessonet, which begins previews on April 25, 2017, before an official opening on May 15 and a limited engagement through to June 4, 2017, at The Pershing Square Signature Center's Irene Diamond Stage.

The cast of Venus includes (in alphabetical order) Hannah Cabell,Tony nominee John Ellison Conlee, Obie Award-winner Randy Danson, Adam Green, Birgit Huppuch, Obie Award-winner Zainab Jah, Kevin Mambo, Patrena Murray, Reynaldo Piniella, Julian Rozzell, and Tony Torn.

Synopsis: "Traveling from her home in southern Africa for what she hoped would be a better life, Saartjie Baartman became an unfortunate star on the 19th Century London freak show circuit. This Obie Award-winning play gives vibrant life to the story of Baartman's journey to London, her rise to fame as the 'Hottentot Venus,' and her eventual relationship with a French scientist. Inspired by the true story of Baartman, Venus is a tragic-carnival, an intense and devastating journey honoring the life of Baartman and examining the way we live and love today."

The creative team behind Venus has also been announced and features scenic design by Matt Saunders, costume design by Emilio Sosa, lighting design by Justin Townsend, sound design and original music by Brandon Wolcott, choreography by Danny Mefford, and fight direction by Thomas Schall.