Why should philanthropist's invest in Venus and not some other theatre company? >-What is the specific value of what is done here?   Presents voices that would not otherwise be heard, but which we can all learn from. >-How has it affected artists and viewers over its short lifetime so far?   Shown audiences alternative viewpoints, given them the chance to grow through compassion. >More to the point, in your artistic involvement with Venus, in what positive way have you been altered or grown? I learned a ton about the professional theatre world, was able to gets hands-on experience or at least a very close view of the effort and discipline that goes into a quality theatrical production.  Learned to be more patient with divergent views.  Learned to value my own unqiue qualities, which have turned out to be a strength, not a liability, which most of the rest of the world had led me to believe. >-How has it affected your career? Improved my confidence, my professional skills, my appreciation of the work others do, given me concrete lines on my resume, helped me to hone my vision of my own work and to cultivate it in useful ways. Long live the goddess! Lisa