Most Valuable Players

Babs George

On the scene since: 1987

MVP for: State Theater Company

Recent Roles: Ariel, The Tempest, State, 2001; Jean, Apeman of Manhattan, Remembrance Through the Performing Arts, 2001; various, Anton in Show Business, State, 2001; Irene, Light Up the Sky, Austin Playhouse, 2001; Lady Macbeth, A Macbeth, State, 2000; Mrs. Banks, Barefoot in the Park, Mary Moody Northen Theatre, 2000.

Honors: Payne award & Critics Table nomination, Anton in Show Business; Payne & Critics Table nominations, Barefoot in the Park; Critics Table nomination, Light Up the Sky; Payne nomination, A Macbeth.

Leading lady at the State Theater for more than a decade. George's etched-glass features winning smile, and elegant poise are just part of what keeps her center stage. There's also her striking emotional openness onstage and a willingness to take on all roles, be they Broadway divas or Shakespearean murderesses. Skilled at finding a character's Achilles' heel and projecting it for us to see. The brittle vulnerability she portrays can be shattering. Special skills: serving up vain, overwrought thespians; see Anton in Show Biz, Light Up the Sky, and Hay Fever.