Valerie's remarkable career spans an impressive 35 years, with a diverse range of accomplishments as an actor, director, and writer. She is perhaps most famously known for her iconic role as Doris Schwartz in the beloved television series Fame, which has captivated audiences worldwide.
With a career that has spanned both sides of the camera, Valerie has been busy behind the scenes as well. She is currently working on her indie feature film Offer and Compromise, alongside talented actors Tom Cavanagh, Bellamy Young, and Bailee Madison. Her short film Trixie's Score has also gained recognition, being picked up by Shorts International.
As a writer-director, Valerie has penned several notable projects, including Belters for Profile Films America, An Unexpected Gift for The Hallmark Channel, and Norwegian Wood, a teen comedy for Kinetic Arts. She has also directed the action-thriller Bound By Lies, featuring Kristie Swanson and Stephen Baldwin.
Throughout her career, Valerie has appeared in numerous television series and films, both as a regular and recurring cast member. She made her film debut in the disco classic TGIF and has also appeared on Broadway in Neil Simon's I Ought To Be In Pictures, Off-Broadway in Surviving Grace, and Woody Allen's The Floating Lightbulb.
In addition to her on-screen work, Valerie is a skilled improviser and has performed yearly at the Groundlings Theater with various groups. She has also worked as an on-set coach for both actors and directors.
Valerie's teaching experience is extensive, with adjunct faculty positions at UCLA, Rockport College, and guest lectures at the University of Southern Maine and the University of Central Florida. She has also created Master Classes for Euro Disney and has recently joined the international faculty of The Asian Academy of Film and Television in New Delhi, India.
As a consultant, Valerie works with independent business professionals both within and outside the entertainment industry. When she's not working, Valerie can be found in her 600-square-foot loft on the coast of Maine, where she is a photographer, singer-songwriter/musician, and recording artist. Her music has achieved gold and platinum records, and she is currently preparing to release her second CD, Firebrand. Her debut album, Grownup, continues to sell worldwide.
