Dorothy Dandridge's Journey To Hollywood

Dorothy Dandridge is an African-American actress and singer who rose from obscurity to become one of the most renowned performers of the modern era. Dandridge started her performing career in her early childhood with her sister Vivian Dandridge, and friend, Etta Jones, as “The Dandridge Sisters.” The trio performed in many prestigious clubs, which ultimately led to a few minor parts in film, and finally paved Dorothy’s path to desired roles in films as the leading lady. Dorothy’s early films gave her the recognition to move up the Hollywood ladder, and in the end, led to her path towards becoming the first African-American woman to be nominated for an academy award for best actress. Dorothy’s early career began with performances by “The Dandridge Sisters” in small films like A Day at the Races with the Marx Brothers and The Big Broadcast

Due to her ethnicity, Dorothy’s scenes would occasionally be cut from film in certain areas around the nation, or would hardly be seen at all since all-colored pictures were not the most popular at this time. One of the most prominent examples of how race was handled is in the film, Sun Valley Serenade. Dorothy’s performance with The Nicholas Brothers was often cut from the film entirely, simply because many viewers did not want to see someone of their ethnicity portrayed in an equal manner. The dance numbers and musical pairing is a joyous scene to watch, and Dorothy’s vocal and tap dancing abilities are both highlighted in this particular scene. Despite appearing in films alongside noteworthy talent, Dorothy found it difficult to break out from the group and continued travelling for club performances.