We look to the past to shape our future. Who are you? Where are you going from here?

I’ve learned so many lessons from the past – so I am a work in progress for sure. I am going into places where I can have new experiences in a more grounded and relaxed way, without all the worry and stress, but I am definitely Old School.  I prefer the road atlas to the Google Maps any day of the week.

What excites you most about being a part of TAM’s Tragedy Tomorrow, Comedy Tonight Season?

Being back at TAM is always thrilling: what can we create in a very short amount of time with an incredible play and an extraordinary company? I am working with designers that spark my imagination, and with a stage management team that knows how to make it all happen.  I love the energy and the focus in the room most of all, and seeing the audience respond to everything we’ve created.

We’re all about making old things new and new things classic. Why are you drawn to classic theater? How do you shake it up?

I’m drawn to Shakespeare because it uses every single muscle I have. When I read the play again, knowing I am going to direct it, (often again), I try to stick with the story, rather than trying to cook up a new angle.  The story is the angle. This time, I’m shaking it up with 8 actors! Who does that? TAM does!

From what sources do you draw your inspiration?

Music, art, nature, photographs. I have a file called “Research Images” for the show, and I have Italian exteriors, shady gardens, (Spoiler Alerts!) goofy constables, abandoned brides. Getting some images that connect me to the world of the play is critical, and it gets the design conversation going.

You can have dinner with any three influential people. Who are your dream guests, why them, and what is the topic of conversation?

José Andrés, MaryAnn Evans (aka George Eliot), Ben McIntrye – their work fascinates me. The first topic would be formative experiences that led them on their path.

How have the past few years changed your view of making theater and what action are you most proud of?

It’s become more about enjoying the time with the people telling the story. I am most proud of retiring from full-time teaching, and give my life a little more breathing room.

What’s your super power?

The ability to get all the parts of the meal ready at the same time.