Bio

As a young child Andrea loved to be in the spotlight.  Andrea’s parents cherished the arts, her mother a dancer and teacher, her father a civic leader and singer; she was brought up with a passion for entertaining.  “I remember going through my mother’s costume closet and involving my brother to create performances for my parents enjoyment.” She said, “But it was mostly for my enjoyment, you know I now feel kind of bad for my brother.”  Andrea’s first experience on stage happened during a lull at her church talent show.  At the age of 5 she was the first to stand and volunteer her voice, singing, “This Little Light of Mine.”

Andrea attended Gladstone Academy Elementary for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri, where she was born and raised. “It was really neat, while other kids just had recess, we had dance class, choir, acting class and recess too.”  Andrea participated in many productions in the Kansas City Area as well: from Greek Theatre at dawn with The Gorilla Theatre Organization to musicals at Starlight Theatre and American Heartland Theatre.

One of Andrea’s most favorite experiences was the six-week summer theatre intensive program at Northwestern University during her junior year of high school.  Andrea met other performers throughout the country who were serious about making a career in the theatre.  “That was the first time I felt connected to my work.  I learned that one doesn’t jump onstage to ‘show off’ his or her voice or to entertain.” Andrea said,  “I learned that it comes from some place deep in the soul.  It takes, honesty, and belief in one’s character.  It’s not just about one person, it takes collaboration. Then the audience can really connect.”  At Northwestern, Andrea worked with many extraordinary Chicago and New York actors, and made many wonderful cherub friends.

Pursuing a career in Musical Theatre and the performing arts has always been a dream of Andrea’s.  In 2001, Andrea attended The University of Northern Colorado to receive a bachelor degree in Musical Theatre.  Unlike many artists, Andrea decided she didn’t want a conservatory based education because she believed the non-performing experiences would strengthen her performing experience.  Andrea played many roles at UNCO, Lucy, in Jekyll and Hyde; Diana, in A Chorus Line; Phyllis, in 42nd Street; and Lucille in No, No, Nanette.  In college, during the summer months, Andrea also performed regionally. 

In March of 2005, Andrea, with the Musical Theatre class of 2005 performed a showcase in New York City.  After graduation Andrea decided to be the lead singer aboard the Westerdam, Holland America’s 2nd newest and biggest cruise ship.  This experience allowed Andrea to see many beautiful places in the world and meet many beautiful people of all backgrounds.  “I come from such a diverse background, my grandparents from Italy and my African American background, it was inspiring to think that my parents came from different parts of the world and created me.”

Although Andrea enjoyed her cruise ship experience, six months on a boat was enough for her. Andrea was ready to make the move to New York City.  In September, Andrea moved to New York and began auditioning.  That same month Andrea was cast in Jerry Mitchell’s Peep Show as a back-up singer.  In that production she had the pleasure of working with the very talented Jerry Mitchell and Andrew Lippa. 

Andrea was performing in readings, doing some commercial work and other short works around the city when she was cast as Joanne, in the International tour of Rent.  Upon Andrea’s return in November, she was cast in the Broadway musical, Tarzan.   Andrea was delighted to be cast in the ensemble as well as the understudy for Kala, Tarzan’s mother.  “I’ve been blessed to have many loving supporters and helpers, thank you.”  Andrea says,  “Step one of my dream has come true, Thanks be to God!” 

Andrea Dora is an actor who gives all of herself on stage and in her daily life, thus making her presence radiate.  She is determined to fulfill her dreams one step at a time.  “My goals in life are pretty simple, do my best and treat everyone with kindness.  That is my structure, everything else will fall into place as it should.”