meet our crew: deirdre o'rourke

The second installment of our volunteer appreciation series Meet Our Crew: get to know Deirdre O'Rourke!

What motivated you to reach out and help The Center?
From the name and the website, I knew I wanted to support the mission. Then I met Anne and Jan and wanted to be involved for sure.

What’s your favourite thing about The Center?
The emphasis on community and social gathering.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Singing, eating, catching up with family and friends.

Tell us your most favourite thing about Bakersfield. 
The temps during "winter".

What’s your favourite event/shop/restaurant in Bakersfield?
Christmastown at the Kern County Museum.

What place(s) do you enjoy visiting outside of Bakersfield?
Pismo Beach and San Diego (where my sister lives).

What’s on your playlist? 
Kacey Musgraves and the soundtrack for The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (watch it, but no spoilers! I haven't finished Season Two).

Who’s your favourite musician and why?
I've thought more about this question lately because I've been listening to a podcast called For the Girls about queer people and their fandom of female divas. Audra McDonald is the queen of Broadway; her voice can do anything plus she's an expert at acting a song and I respect her advocacy. 

What shows are you currently streaming on Netflix?
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Amazon), Dead to Me, Dawson's Creek (always).

What is your favourite movie of all time and why? 
My typical answer is The Sound of Music. You can't beat Julie Andrews. Favorite scene: Maria and the Captain dancing together. 

What sports team / athlete do you root for?
I don't follow sports, but if the Pittsburgh Pirates ever make it to the World Series, they'll have my support.

Tell us a unique feature about yourself!
I have a PhD in Theatre and Performance.

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about the Author

R. Velasco is a Canadian writer new to Bakersfield. She is actively seeking ways to raise community consciousness about LGBTQ issues and topics, one blog post at a time. She is also part of The Center’s Women Support Group.