CD:How did you decide to teach at the University?
BT:I came here with my husband because we had jobs here together. ... It was just the time and place to move.
CD:What is your background in the field of drama?
BT:I have an MSA in directing from the University of Minnesota, and I taught at Mount Holyoke and Loyola University in Chicago. ... I lived in Chicago and worked in theatre for a few years before I came here.
CD:What is your proudest acting or directing accomplishment?
BT:I just enjoy pulling people together to work on a production. I can't think of any one that stands out above the others. I certainly do enjoy Shakespeare.
CD:What are three words that you'd use to describe your teaching style?
BT:Direct, challenging, fun.
CD:What is your favorite part about teaching?
BT:Sharing my enthusiasm, watching the light bulbs go off in students' heads as they make connections.
CD:What is your least favorite part?
BT:Grading.
CD:Who are your greatest heroes?
BT:Gandhi -- he was incredibly smart, very simple in his political approach, and he was in it for the long haul. Susan B. Anthony was fierce and very intelligent. And Caryl Churchill, a British playwright, because she's very political, feminist, socialist and writes amazing plays.
CD:Which modern actors do you believe are overrated?
BT:Most of the actors people are aware of are acting on their personality rather than through an ability to become someone else. Most actors are not given the chance to use their craft. The farther we get away from contemporary life, the more people have a chance to use the craft. But there are some good contemporary actors.
CD:What is the best advice you can give to an aspiring actor?
BT:Do it while you're young.
CD:What is the best advice you've ever received?
BT:Be a director.
CD:What are your favorite movies and productions?
BT:I saw a very fine "Medea" with Fiona Shan a few years ago in New York. I like documentaries-- "Super-Size Me." That's hardly acting though. I liked "Love Actually" -- that was pretty funny. They just don't leap to my brain.
CD:What is your favorite U.Va. tradition?
BT:I guess I like the ringing of the [Chapel] bells when important people die.
CD:What would you most like to change about U.Va.?
BT:Get rid of the fraternities and sororities. ... Fat chance, huh?
-- Compiled by Michelle Jamrisko
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