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May 2024 NEWSLETTER

Dear Friends,


Earlier this month my sister and I attended the Orlando premiere of the documentary "Dorothy Gillespie: Courage, Independence and Color." Last week my brother, sister and I visited Roanoke VA. to attend the Virginia premiere of the documentary in the beautiful Grandin Theatre.


The 90-minute feature documentary by White Ladder Productions in association with the Dorothy M. Gillespie Foundation tells the story of Dorothy Gillespie on her journey, in what can only be described as a life exemplified by courage, independence and color.


Below are some photos, comments from those who attended the premieres, as well as radio, TV, and newspaper interviews.


The documentary will be submitted to film festivals and shown in colleges and museums around the country.

Dr. Phillips Center is a $613 million performing arts center in downtown Orlando.

"Thanks for capturing the story of such an important and pioneering artist."

"The documentary was a lovely tribute to an outstanding woman. I don’t have the personal connections that others have but certainly recognize her passion and talent. Your family is fortunate to have such a great story to tell."

"Super visionary your mother! The film did her justice"

"The film was terrific – so comprehensive. It told Dorothy’s whole history: beginnings, family, career, etc."

Q & A

Moderated by Terry Olson

Filmmakers Crystal White, Jay Scala and Dorien & Gary

Grandin Theatre. Roanoke’s top movie palace opened its doors for the first time in March 26, 1932.

Q & A

Moderated by Doug Jackson

Filmmakers Rafik Cezanne, Jay Scala and Dorien & Gary

While in Roanoke for the premiere, my sister and I were interviewed by

Jean Jadhon (center) about the documentary; she anchors the Emmy award winning 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. news on WDBJ7 (CBS) in Southwest and Central Virginia.

Click to listen to our interview about the documentary on WDBJ7 (CBS)

Here's a link to the story that aired on WVTF this month. To listen to the entire interview click here and scroll down to the end of the article titled Documentary about Roanoke-born artist Dorothy Gillespie premieres this week.

Post cards created in Roanoke for the documentary