We’re so excited for our upcoming production of The 12 Dancing Princesses presenting May 30-June 8, 2014. We’re even more excited to reconnect with a past Encore princess and alumna, Brittany O’Grady. Brittany performed in Encore’s 2007 production of The 12 Dancing Princesses and has been doing great things since then. Brittany has been cast with several other Washington area theaters including Signature Theatre, Ford’s Theatre, Synetic Theater and the Little Theatre of Alexandria and has also performed at the White House and the Kennedy Center. Her commercial work includes national and regional ad campaigns, PSAs, and more. One of Brittany’s latest appearances includes ABC’s hit-comedy sitcom, Trophy Wife. Check out her clip as we catch up with Brittany on her theater journey in the DC area to her latest endeavors in Los Angeles.
Encore: What was your first role and can you describe your experience?
Brittany: My first role was an angel in my church’s Christmas pageant at age 3. I fell asleep on stage. The director had to pick me up and bring me to my mother when the scene ended. I guess you could say that my first role was a comedic one.
Encore: What school did you graduate from and can you list some of your favorite roles/productions you’ve been involved in?
Brittany: I graduated from Washington Lee High School in 2013. I’ve had some great roles I’ve gotten to take on. My favorite so far has been playing the Fiancée in Synetic Theater’s production of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. It was a dark and twisted show which really gave me a challenge. I loved the romance and drama my character brought to the story.
Encore: How old were you when you performed in Encore’s 12 Dancing Princesses and what did you enjoy about working on this production?
Brittany: I was 10 years old when I performed in Encore’s 12 Dancing Princesses. It was my first time doing a theater production outside of school. I absolutely fell in love with the cast. I loved playing Cindi with an “I”. I formed a very close bond with everyone. I’m still in contact and very close with many of the actors from the show.
Encore: What motivated you to pursue acting? Did you always feel supported (in the Arlington community and beyond) to pursue this career?
Brittany: I started acting and modeling professionally at age 4. I didn’t start becoming seriously motivated to pursue acting as a career until I was 10 when I had the opportunity to participate in Signature Theater’s, The Witches of Eastwick. I was and still am supported by the Arlington community. There were many opportunities to express myself artistically, whether it was art classes at school, dance classes after school, or participating in theater productions like Encore’s 12 Dancing Princesses. I was always encouraged to pursue my dreams because I’ve worked all my life to achieve them.
Encore: What lessons can you take away from your experience in theater?
Brittany: I’ve learned to be fearless, expressive, and confident. You cannot be afraid to take risks and receive criticism.
Never EVER give up… -Brittany O’Grady
Encore: What projects are you currently working on and how are you enjoying California?
Brittany: Currently, I’m just auditioning for projects and deciding which college I should attend. California is a crazy but beautiful place! There are so many opportunities. I also love the weather. I avoided all those crazy snow storms on the east coast.
Encore: Any advice for our current Encore participants who want to pursue acting as a career?
Brittany: Never EVER give up. No matter how discouraged you get and how many times you get rejected. Work hard, train hard, and know your stuff. If you are always working on improving yourself, you will get better. You will become the versatile actor you want to be. The roles will come with time.
Thank you Brittany for taking the time to share your theater experience with us! Best wishes on your career and future endeavors!
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We hope to see you at the theatre for Encore’s spring production of The 12 Dancing Princesses. There’s a mystery afoot in King Alfred’s kingdom. Every night the King sends his twelve princesses, each more beautiful than the last, off to bed with brand new shoes in a secure chamber in the castle. However, every morning the King awakes to find the shoes worn as if the girls had been dancing all night. Since no one will confess to what has happened, the King promises his kingdom to any soldier who can discover his daughters’ secret within three days. Join one soldier who is determined to uncover the mystery of the shoes and win his shot at a kingdom and a princess. Recommended for ages 4 and up. Ticket Prices: $12 adults, $10 children, students, military and seniors. Click here to purchase tickets online, or call our box office (703) 548-1154.