Taylore Mahogany Scott is back for a second season with Cincinnati Shakespeare Festival. One of Cincinnati's best spoken-word artists, she's putting together a solo performance that will shape a plot around her poetry. It will be performed in tandem with Dracula in November at the Festival.

What's your show's girl power? She's independent/dependent! She is able to openly trust in others, but the choice is completely up to her. Your five-year plan: I plan to concentrate on expanding my character work with Shakespeare and preparing myself for whatever the market asks for next, including applying for doctoral programs in Shakespeare and African-American theater. I'd also like to concentrate more on teaching the classics to children, preferably inner-city children who haven't been exposed to the greatness of Shakespeare.

Favorite place to hear live music: Shhhh, don't tell anyone but Federal Reserve, because there are some of the most talented jazz singers and musicians there.

Favorite Graeter's flavor: I haven't gone through the flavors just yet 'cause I can't afford it.

How high are your heels? Four and one-half to six inches because I'm vertically challenged, plus I'm always looking for ways to tone up my calf muscles.

Why is she the one? "After seeing Mahogany's work in The Gimmick," says director Brian Isaac Phillips, "as well as having the privilege of experiencing her spoken-word material in other venues, we thought it was time for Cincinnati to see a combination of a fantastic solo performer and a fantastic writer all in one evening."

What's next? Only God knows! Naw, next is Hamlet, in which I have been given the chance to play Horatio. Not only do I get to play a great male role, but I live! Those who know that play will get what I mean.