CONTRAPPOSTO by Rachael Carnes

10-Minute Play: Venus complains about the male gaze to Botticelli. 1485.
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CONTRAPPOSTO

Recommended by

  • Kay Kestner:
    1 Sep. 2023
    “ With sharp and witty dialogue, CONTRAPPOSTO encapsulates centuries of women’s struggles for equality. Humor with a sword of truth runs through every line in this unique “portrait” of the struggle not only of Venus’ but of all women to be viewed as strong and powerful. Quick-paced, snappy, and thoroughly engaging. ”
  • Ryan M. Bultrowicz:
    1 Jun. 2023
    “ Carnes has crafted an amazing piece that deftly redefines Botticelli’s famed subject, not as a silent object of desire, but as a vibrant, empowered woman pushing back against the constraints of her era. Look no further for a scintillating dive into art history and gender politics! Super fun - I'm sure it'd be an absolute joy to see on stage. ”
  • Luna Taveras:
    18 Jan. 2023
    “ I love the concept of this play! It’s the perfect blend of art history, feminism and humor. ”
View all 17 recommendations

Character Information

CHARACTERS

SANDRO BOTTICELLI, aka Alessandro di Mariano di Vanni Filipepi, member of the Florentine School under the patronage of Lorenzo de’ Medici. Painter of “The Birth of Venus”. Man, 40’s.

VENUS, Roman goddess of love, beauty, prosperity, fertility and victory. Woman. Ageless.

  • VENUS
    Any Age,
    Any
    ,
    Cis Woman
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      Any adult age
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      White
    • Gender: 
      Female
  • SANDRO
    Adult,
    White
    ,
    Man
    Can be played by:
    • Age: 
      Any adult age
    • Race/Ethnicity: 
      White
    • Gender: 
      Male

Production History

  • Professional
    ,
    Feels Blind Literary Magazine — Publication
    ,
    2020
  • Professional
    ,
    Undisposables, London, UK
    ,
    2019