Every Thursday I profile a new incredible woman, each from a different walk of life. Different professions, causes, backgrounds, ethnicities, orientations, and anything/everything else!
So without further delay, let me introduce the theatrically trailblazing Kelly Thornton…
photo credit: Pierre Maraval
As the award-winning Artistic Director of Nightwood Theatre, Kelly Thornton is responsible for bringing the best of women’s theatre to the masses. Also recognized for her role in mentoring young women, Nightwood Theatre offers programs like Write from the Hip (writing skills and professional play development for young writers) and Busting Out! (a free theatre program for girls aged 12 to 16). Currently directing the world premiere of Wild Dogs, Kelly takes the time to answer our questions as a shameless director and dramaturg.
What drives you to do what you do?
A deep desire to have an impact and make a difference.
How does being a woman empower / challenge you?
I love being a woman. I like the way our brains work. I think we have amazing instincts as well as great analytical minds.
On another note I just became a mother last year of a baby girl and that experience has blown my mind and made me realize how profound being a woman and the ability to give life really is. It has also made me appreciate my own mother in a whole new way.
Of course in challenges I could get into the glass ceiling but I prefer to keep building my ladder and sharpening the blade that will cut through it one day.
What advice would you give to young women who want to follow in your footsteps?
No opportunity is too small to show the mettle you are made of.
Name one person, place, or thing every young woman should know about?
Nightwood Theatre – great theatre and lots of opportunities for young women to get involved.
What is the most important thing we can do in order to change the world?
Fight apathy – in ourselves and in those around us. The powers that be are trying to fool us into believing that we have no power as individuals. Get involved in what you passionately believe in.
Make sure to check out Nightwood Theatre’s production of Wild Dogs while you still can! Running until Nov 8 at Berkeley Theatre.
If you are interested in one of Nightwood Theatre’s Youth and Play Development programs visit their website here.
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one comment
Dear D. Cole -- THANKS AGAIN!!
We were vacationing last week in Mexico when Obama won. We cried. Why -- his win allowed us to believe again, hope again...
What does this have to do with Kelly Thornton? With you? With your column? -- the women here, Kelly, You, the others you are profiling... allow us to believe again, hope again.
THANKS AGAIN!!
Posted by bluegaia
November 11, 2008, 6:23 PM
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