"Sisters Are Doing It For Themselves," by Annie Lennox
In case you haven't noticed, I enjoy Annie Lennox quite a bit. She is a diva and a true diva possesses strength and owns her opinion without apology. She isn't dependent on a man but enriched by her relationship with a man or other personal mate. She defines herself. She is powerful. She is dynamic! She is a mother lioness!
As has been previously stated, there is a new head writer on One Life To Live. His name is Ron Carlivati. I would like to see him reinforce the character of Dorian Lord's strength while retaining her layers of vulnerability and flair for the dramatic. I want to see her be the force of nature that is fierce to be reckoned with.
Former Head Writer Dena Higley (OLTL, 2004-2007) has been criticized for lack of story and her sloppy writing of continuing events. I concur with that criticism as I have yearned for my favorite performer, Robin Strasser, to be given a storyline. Some may view the writing of her relationship with Clint Buchanan, the stalker reveal, etc., as some sort of story but really it is not, especially when told in sporadic and limited episodes. Instead, the above may best be described as a series of dramatic situations without clear consideration of motivation or consequence related to character development and integrity. The relating of such story is mangled and without thought of what happened previous to or what is to happen after the event.
William Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet: "The play's the thing." Through her Hotline Ms. Strasser has enthused about the talents of Mr. Carlivati, who has been with the show for 11 years. She has faith in her executive producer Frank Valentini. I have no reason to question that assessment. But the proof is in the story.
When I see attention given to the much-loved character that acknowledges Dorian Lord's rich history and core position on the show, then I will know OLTL is respecting me as a viewer as well as the Emmy award-winning actress who has contributed to the show's longevity and success.
- Dorian is a matriarch. Let me see her in scenes with her Cramer Women.
- Dorian is smart. Let me see her figure things out before anyone else and successfully plot for money, her family, love. She will fight to hold on to what she values. She is dangerous. Beware of firearms! Beware of her intelligence!
- Dorian has learned from her life experiences. Let me see a diva who acknowledges what life has dealt her and learned from her mistakes while making plenty more of them as she lives her life to the fullest.
- Dorian interacts with a multi-generational cast of characters because you see, they could learn a thing or two from a diva with sass.
- Dorian possesses great humor and fashion. Let her have fun.
- Dorian is unpredictable and outspoken. Let me hear her ROAR!
In Soap Opera Digest (2005), Ms. Strasser has this to say: "Since I came back, the dark side has not been explored. People like to see Dorian happy. I have no problem with that. I love the humor. I love the involvement that the Cramer women have. But I think Dorian has more colors that are possible to explore, and I know that as an actress -- and I'm gonna toot my own horn here -- I'm really adept at turning at a second from light-hearted to 'I could stick a knife right in her back I'm so angry.' I think that one of the fun parts about the Dorian of the past was that even though she was behaving in a despicable manner, there would be these flashes of vulnerability, humor, or that she cares about her family so deeply."
RIGHT ON, DIVA! Now let's have the story!
Thanks for visiting Walk of Fame
Viva la Diva!
