Dorothy Neumann Obituary

Neumann

Dorothy Neumann

Dorothy "Dot" Neumann died peacefully on October 23, 2023. A lifelong educator, director and a pioneer in Washington theater, Dot followed her passions and helped others do the same.

Born in the Bronx, NY, Dot was drawn to the Washington, DC area in the early 1970s to join a cadre of artists looking to establish and nurture small professional theater. Dot directed more than 35 professional productions at several theaters including Horizons, Source, Signature, and Keegan. Her work earned numerous awards, including three Helen Hayes nominations for Outstanding Director.

For more than 30 years, she taught English, drama, speech and journalism full-time in Arlington County schools. In addition, she taught acting classes at The Theatre Lab, where she is credited with "inspiring literally hundreds of students over the years." She continued to teach well into retirement, creating a course on the Psychology of Aging for Encore Learning in Arlington.

Dot also spared time to help playwrights develop their work and volunteer for the Arlington Food Assistance Center and Arlington County Democrats (including serving as a precinct chair).

Dot leaves behind her cherished partner of 40 years, Barbara Klein; nephew John Neumann and niece Dawn Neumann; countless others who were enriched by her passion, creativity and determination, and a book of poetry, "Truth Serum." Donations may be made to The Theatre Lab (theatrelab.org) and AFAC. No services are planned.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Nov. 1, 2023.

Memories and Condolences
for Dorothy Neumann

10 Entries

Jose A Brown

October 26, 2024

In memory of a courageous woman who had a resilient spirit to fight for the principles that she believed in.

She was an outstanding high school teacher, college professor, human-being, wonderful friend and activists for the human rights of others.

RIP Ms. Neumann "Dot"

Lory Leshin and Bernie Collins

January 28, 2024

We just learned, very late, of Dot's passing. We have such great memories of many moments spent together. I had the great privilege of working with Dot in the theater, one of my very first professional contracts, what luck ! I learned so much and was so touched by the complete confidence she had in me ! Dot was such a generous artist and person ! Our hearts are with you Barb ! Big love from across the Pond, Lory and Bernie.

Jose A. Brown

November 19, 2023

To Barb and the Neumann Family,

I'm saddened and shocked to here of Dorothy "Dot's" passing.

She was my 6th grade teacher at JJW in Va.

Dot was a courageous and kind person.

He faith was her strength because she weathered many storms in her life, especially that tragic accident in 1969 that took the lives of two of her colleagues who were teachers.

She fought back from that vehicle accident with courage, faith, strength and character.

Her faith enabled her to achieve so much in its aftermath.

"A quitter never wins, and a winner ever wins"

Never questioned or asked why, but accepted the hand that she was dealt, without complaining.

After almost 45 years we reunited and remained in touch.

We had so wonderful lunches.

Dot, you were more that a teacher, but a friend that everyone "especially students and faculty" could count on.

Your work in the classrooms at JJW, Spotsy Senior High and GW Lab Theatre will always be remembered!

RIP Mam...you've labored hard in the vineyard, so get your rest.

Deepest sympathy,

Jose A. Brown

Retired United States Secret Service.

Emily Kranking

November 17, 2023

I'm so extremely sorry about Dot. She was my very first teacher at the Theater Lab (Summer 2019), and we actually walked to and from her Intro classes together because I got there early from the Metro. Dot was such a dear woman and lived her life, fantasically. My heart and prayers go out to her partner and her family.

judy thibault klevins

November 6, 2023

To Barbara and others who loved Dot---she will be missed.
My favorite memory of Dot is of taking a workshop with her at a college where her wit and skills were so remarkable and brought us joy. Dot was a gifted director and friend.

Caren Anton

November 5, 2023

So sad to learn of Dot's passing. She was an absolute pleasure to know and work with. My heartfelt consolences to Barbara and all of Dot's loved ones.

Allyson Currin

November 4, 2023

I was so sad to hear of Dot´s passing. She was a joy to work with and gave me such generous opportunities early in my career. I am sending my love to Barb and Dot´s family.

Jo and Larry Hodgin

November 4, 2023

Simply thinking of Dot makes us smile. She knew how to spread joy.

Ginger Moss

November 4, 2023

I am just devastated to hear of Dot's passing. She was a pillar in the DC theatre community and will be so missed. I send love and hugs to dear Barbara during this most difficult time.

Ginger Harden

November 1, 2023

I just read this I. The POST and am devistated. We were longtime friends but I hadn´t see her in a while.

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