Apple Valley Residents Cheer for Relatives: Two People With High Desert Connections Appear on Network Talent Contests
By Matthew C. Durkee, Daily Press, Victorville, Calif.
Jul. 24–APPLE VALLEY — America may have talent, but more than its share has ties to the Victor Valley.
Two people with connect i o n s t o t h e H i g h D e s e r t have appeared this summer on network talent contests, on “America’s Got Talent” and “Last Comic Standing.”
Sarah Orr, originally from Apple Valley and now living in New York City, is a member of The Glamazons, described on their Web site as “a large, hot helping of bawdy burlesque, striptease, go-go dancing and sassy songs.”
The group’s performances on “America’s Got Talent” have propelled them to the semifinalists round, numbering them among the top 20 acts of the program’s summer season.
Pat Yancey, who taught Orr in musical theater for four years at Apple Valley High School, says it has been great fun to watch her on TV.
“She’s unique, and she’s stirring up quite a fuss,” Yancey said. Yancey recalls Orr as being one of her best students. “Very positive. Very energetic. Very dedicated and hardworking. Very reliable. All those ingredients that a pro needs.” Orr’s mother, Karen Orr of Apple Valley, says it has been great fun receiving phone calls from friends and family locally and in other states.
The Glamazons have been performing in New York-area nightclubs for several years, but last year one member of the group left. An open audition was held and Sarah beat out 50 other competitors. She has been living in New York to pursue a career in theater. On “Last Comic Standing,” a comedian known only as Dante has advanced to the finals. Dante grew up in Ridgecrest, and now his parents live in Apple Valley.
His mother, JoAnn Rusciolelli says it has been a wild ride for the family watching Dante compete. She says that he’s constantly working, either performing or teaching a comedy class, and she’s happy to see his work begin to gain some attention.
“America’s Got Talent” airs at 8 p.m. today on NBC, and “Last Comic Standing” runs at 9 p.m. Wednesday on NBC.
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