Most Valuable Players
A Guide to Austin Stage Actors
Fri., Sept. 28, 2001
Stephanie Swenson
On the scene since: 1985
MVP for: Vortex Repertory Company
Recent Roles: Lulu, Shopping and Fucking, Vortex, 2001; Rita, The Bridge Burner, Vortex, 2000; Leole, The Butcher's Daughter, Refraction Arts, 2000; Rosalind, As You Like It, Austin Shakespeare Festival, 1999; Leonora, Ladies in Retirement, Different Stages, 1999.
Honors: Payne & Critics Table nominations Butcher's Daughter; Payne nomination, Ladies in Retirement; Critics Table nominations, Dirigible, Altamont Now; Critics Table award, Fur.
Like other Vortex performers, Swenson is as daring as they come, and arguably the most daring performer we know. Willing to put herself on the line emotionally, psychologically, personally, and professionally. At the same time, she's the sweetest, nicest person. One of the great mysteries of Austin theatre is how this tiny, almost diminutive girl-woman often seems to have more real cojones than any of her counterparts, male or female. Case in point: Her figuratively and literally naked performance as Citrona in Fur or the entity known as Ratgirl.
