Behind-the-scenes with Kathleen Turner

Kathleen Turner (yes, that Kathleen Turner) answers our questions!

Kathleen Turner in HIGH.

The skyways and the sculpture garden. That’s what Kathleen Turner remembers from her time in Minneapolis in October 2000 when she launched the national tour of Tallulah at the Orpheum Theatre. The two-time Golden Globe winner and Academy and Tony Award nominee returns to Minneapolis this week to star in High at the Pantages.  Turner plays a “no-nonsense, foul mouthed, recovering alcoholic nun” called on to help a 19-year-old drug user.

Over the past four decades, Turner has gained critical acclaim for performances in films such as “Body Heat” and “Prizzi’s Honor” and in stage productions including Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and The Graduate. She also earned broad popular praise starring with Michael Douglas and Danny DeVito in the 80s feature films “Romancing the Stone” and “The War of the Roses.” We had the chance to ask about her role in High and her illustrious career.

Q. What drew you to play Sister Jamison in High?

I found her to be a strong woman with great weaknesses. I was drawn to a character caught in a powerful conflict between addiction and faith and how powerfully addiction and belief affect our choices.

Q. Did you get a chance to see a lot of live theatre growing up?

On the contrary- I grew up in Caracas, Venezuela until I was 13 because my father was a U.S. ambassador and there was no theatre there. I moved to London for high school and there I had wonderful opportunities to see excellent, professional theatre.

Q. Throughout your illustrious career, you’ve worked with some outstanding talents. Do you have a favorite?

I don’t like to compare people that way- working with each actor or actress was a unique experience. I hope to work with many more exciting people!

Q. You also released an autobiography in 2008. What’s it like putting your entire life down on paper?

Well, I would say I didn’t “put my entire life down on paper.” I trust it is far from over! But I wrote about some of my experiences over the years and, I hope, some lessons I have learned.

Turner has also graciously agreed to conduct a master class with alumni of our SpotLight Musical Theatre Program on Friday, April 20 at the New Century Theatre. All past SpotLight students are eligible to participate in this free event. To R.S.V.P. or for more information, visit the sign up page on our website.

Thanks to Kathleen Turner for participating in our Q&A. For tickets or more information on High, please visit our website.