American National Academy of Performing Arts Goes Up for Auction This Afternoon

The building where the National Academy has been teaching students since 1957 is being auctioned off this afternoon.

"We are hoping for a miracle," said teacher Cathy Wilkinson, who has volunteered her time with Dorothy Barrett, 96, who has taught there and lives upstairs at the building at 10944 Ventura Boulevard.

Here is what Amy Castle, an actress who worked and learned under Barrett, said:

Over the past 56 years thousands of students have attended the school including Helen Hunt, Tracey Bregman, Aaron Lohr, Amy Castle, Erin Sanders, and Paul Gleason, and teachers including Jerry Lewis, Johnny Silver, and John Forsythe.

What makes the Academy stand out from the other acting and dance schools in the city, is that all of its teachers donate their time. In addition to Dorothy, Hana Konupek, Cathy Wilkinson and Druscilla Abel have been the core foundation of teachers. No matter how big or small a class may be, they teach every week without pay for the kids. The teachers are there because they love what they do, and the students can feel that in each class they take.

Many students have grown up at the school and have gone on to become teachers themselves, continuously giving back for all that they have learned. The Academy was founded by screen legend Francis Lederer and the traditions he set in place have been continued by Dorothy Barrett, who at 96 years old still teaches at the school. Up until she was 95 you could find her tap dancing with the children every Saturday afternoon. 

Dorothy herself is an icon of Studio City and a shining reminder of the old hollywood era that she was a part of. She was under contract with MGM in the 40‘s, danced with Fred Astaire, worked with Bob Hope, was best friends with Joan Crawford, and had supporting roles in Gone With The Wind, The Wizard of Oz, and Mildred Pierce. She has dedicated the past 60 years of her life to teaching and inspiring children.

The fundraising efforts trying to get $1 million only yielded, $2,688 so far. Go here: http://www.youcaring.com/nonprofits/save-the-academy-/49979.

Also see:

* National Academy in Danger of Being Sold
* Studio City Icon Dorothy Barrett is 96 and She Won't Leave
* Students and Families Hope to Save the Academy 
* Actress Amy Castle Tells What She Learned