Photo Credit Curtis Theatre

Acceptance Speech:

Thank you so much to everyone at the Orange Curtain Review for these two incredible honors. I am beyond grateful for this recognition, and I am still in shock! Congratulations to all of the incredible nominees and winners! This was my first time performing in Orange County, and I was blown away by the talent and exceptional performances all around me. I consider myself lucky to be among such phenomenal artists.

I want to thank the incredible women behind Begins And Ends With A Productions- Aja Bell and Amanda Hallman. Their incredible vision for the show, combined with their passion and integrity, was inspiring, and they brought such warmth and love to everyone involved in our production. Amanda’s incredible, heartfelt direction, combined with Aja’s sensational costumes and eye for artistry, made the whole process so enjoyable from start to finish. They are truly masters of their craft. Thank you both for trusting me with Marie and showing me such love and warmth.

Thank you to our amazing stage manager, Lisa Kataoka, who is extraordinary onstage and off and truly a joy to be around. It must run in the family because her brother “King Kris” Kataoka, the Theatre Manager of the Curtis Theatre, was an exceptional example of someone who goes above and beyond to ensure his crew and cast are cared for. I felt so much support and received so much kindness from Kris and Jonathan Infante and everyone at the Curtis. I truly loved the time I spent at such a magnificent theatre. Thank you, Curtis family, for being simply the best!

I am so grateful to have the amazing support of the three phenomenal women I shared the stage with every night: Rachel VanWormer, Sidney Aaron Aptaker, and Jazlyn Renee Lewis. There are not enough words to describe the incredible talent I was surrounded with from the start… These righteous girls are STARS, and I am so grateful for their friendship and compassion onstage and off. Rachel, our fearless leader, Sidney’s amazing vulnerability, and Jaz’s profound performance every show just made me so grateful and happy to be doing what I love with people that I love.

Thank you to all the theatergoers! I am so thankful for your support, and you sure do make the house look sexy out there!

Thank you to my husband, Kevin, for his unwavering support and love. To my parents, Dan and Linda, my heroes. You have always gone above and beyond and been there for me through it all. I love you!

This award is dedicated to my dear friend and co-star, Jazlyn Renee Lewis. Her performance of Marianne was truly out of this world, and her talent and ability is second to none. Thank you, Jaz, for your truth, beauty, kindness, and joy. This award is for you.

In the words of Marie, “I never said that bit about the cake. I thought I was ordering lunch”.

Thank you!
Danielle