
December 1st, 2009 at 8:00 pm - The Department of Performing Arts introduces its new choral director, Justin Durham, in a program of Learn More...
December 3rd, 2009 at 8:00 pm - Popular orchestral hits fill this winter program, from the “Waltz” and “Polonaise” of Tchaikovsky’s Learn More...
December 8th, 2009 at 8:00 pm - The Spirit of Christmas takes you on a magical journey to a winter wonderland of fun and festive che Learn More...
January 14th, 2010 at 8:00 pm - Singer, pianist, and songwriter Tony DeSare has earned critical acclaim for his performances at the Learn More...
January 21st, 2010 at 8:00 pm - Strauss’ opera "Die Fledermaus" is produced by Teatro Lirico D’Europa which presented "Tosca" during Learn More...
It didn't take long for Dorothy to head west. Three months after graduating from Clemson she flew across country in pursuit of an acting career and "perhaps a little adventure," she said.
Since arriving in Los Angeles, Dorothy has worked non-stop, landing a few small parts and participating in a master class. "I believe persistence pays off. So I audition as much as possible and try to take advantage of any opportunity that comes my way."
Dorothy's hard work has landed some success. She had a small role in The Redemption, a short independent film where she played a book store clerk.
"My big scene was with the main character who was also a store clerk," Dorothy said. "Our scene was when a customer robs the store. I had a blast!"
Dorothy also worked as a day player. "It's a glorified extra. You may be featured in a scene, but you have no dialogue, just screen time. I worked on Marry God, an American Film Institute thesis film. The film stars Ashlyn Sanchez (Crash) and Alexa Vega (Spy Kids)."
Working as an extra isn't glamorous, but Dorothy is learning a lot. "I've chosen to work as an extra to learn more about the process of filmmaking," she said. "Film is an area in which I do not have a lot of knowledge. While it may not fulfill my acting craving, it does allow me the opportunity to learn."
Most recently, Dorothy participated in a master class at the Ark Theatre Company, a professional theatre group under the direction of University of California at Los Angeles theatre professor Paul Wagar. The company boasts critical success and is the recipient of several local awards.
But auditions and master classes don't pay the bills, so Dorothy has a retail job in a local mall. "Unless you're a headliner or superstar or some big shot, you need a day job to make ends meet. That's just life in L.A."
Dorothy credits her positive attitude and good fortune to several people at Clemson, especially her fellow students and her acting professor, Carrie Ann Collins, who gave lots of valuable advice. "Carrie Ann worked in Los Angeles for several years. I met with her many times before I made definite plans to move. Carrie Ann continues to be an excellent mentor," Dorothy said.