Doris A.M. Thomas, born 87 years ago in Southwest Washington, DC, is the Founder and Company Director of Serenity Players, was crowned Ms. DC Senior in 1992. Ms. Thomas is a former tap dancer with Taps & Company and currently performs with the Washington Senior Steppers. Ms. Thomas has authored two books of her own poetry, and just released her third books, The Will To Live, Part Two. She has received many honors and awards for her involvement in community theater, including "Mayor’s Arts Award for Excellence in Services to the Arts" (nominated twice), "Unsung Hero in the Arts Achievement Award", and "Visionary Elder" by the National Visionary Leadership Project.

Cultural Tourism DC asked some notable Washingtonians to share with us their favorite places or events that are special and unique to DC.

1. Eckington Neighborhood – I was married on O Street, NE, right off North Capital Street almost 60 years ago and still hold this neighborhood dear to heart.
2. Freedman’s Hospital – Although there is only one building still standing as a reminder of the first African American hospital here in the city, I love sharing stories about the birth of my first three kids at this historic landmark.
3. Howard Theatre – There’s probably no one my age that lived in DC during her teen years that didn’t at least try to go the Howard Theatre. I am so pleased that it has reopened. I used to frequent the theatre with my two best friends and saw so many famous people. My favorite was probably Moms Mabley.
4. Lincoln Theatre – Over the last ten years as a senior tap dancer, I performed several times at the Lincoln for the DC Black History Committee. It is a beautiful theatre and a breath-taking view looking out over the audience from the stage.
5. THEARC - A wonderful and much needed addition to the arts landscape east of the river. I have both performed and produced Serenity Players shows on the stage. I love being on stage anywhere, and am especially proud to have THEARC’s presence in Southeast DC.

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