Sunday, August 31, 2003

Burgess Byrd



[IMAGE]
Burgess Byrd, a Northern Kentucky University grad, wowed audiences last year in the one-woman show Pretty Fire at Know Theatre Tribe. She'll be one of many voices in A Voice of My Own (Oct. 3-11) for Ovation Theatre, a revue exploring great literature by women.

What's the girl power? Their power lies in their unfeminine ambition (through history) to leave some mark on literature. Daring to go beyond their station in life with very little education or monetary means. They were feminists long before it was fashionable; they criticized the role of women in society.

Is there a happily ever after? We wouldn't have such diverse voices today without a little nudge from earlier voices.

Why is she the one? "I've wanted to work with Burgess since the first time I saw her audition in 2000," says director Joe Stollenwerk. "She brought down the house with a comic monologue. ... With her versatility and presence, she'll step in and out of characters with ease, whether it's Toni Morrison, Anne Bronte or (17th century writer) Margaret Cavendish."

Your five-year plan: I'd like to relocate to a metropolitan city in the Midwest, most likely Chicago or Minneapolis. While I'm still in Cincinnati I would like to continue to find interesting and challenging projects.

Favorite Graeter's flavor: Black Raspberry Chip. I love the creamy tart flavor with rich chunks of chocolate.

Favorite place to listen to live music: Arnold's Bar and Grill. They have a nice outdoor patio all year.

How high are your heels? My heels are not above 3 inches. Before I bought my '86 Grand Am a few months ago, I walked and caught the bus everywhere. So fashionable flats or a short platform is my kind of shoe.

What's next? This winter I'll be working on a follow-up to Pretty Fire by Charlayne Woodard at Know Theatre Tribe.