The Dorothy Do Fanclub
Dorothy Do fanclub poster, provided by the Mast Foundation
A brief history article on behalf of the sponsors of this update! As many of you know, the original Dorothy Do fanclub ended shortly after the conclusion of the show in 1989. For the years that followed many miniature fanclubs would rise and fall, members splitting off to make their own organizations and then moving on to other things. Amongst all these communities one has remained active throughout the years, the New Dorothy Do Fanclub founded in 1995 by several longtime fans of the series. Through much hard work and the financial support of the Mast Foundation, they would reconnect fans across the United States. Today, the club can be located all over the country, however the requirements to get in can be very strict to help make sure the community thrives in a way that represents the ideals of the show.
The Mast Foundation itself is a group dedicated to the preservation of history. (much like ourselves, but at a much higher level!) They conduct outreach programs, community service in other countries, and own the largest collection of Dorothy Do related history in the entire world. It’s always comforting to see a business dedicate itself to preserving the past, especially when that past centers on artistic history.
Support doesn’t stop at funding however! The Mast Foundation regularly conducts events which members of the Dorothy Do fanclub can attend to gain insight on the show's history, from former crew members, literary historians, puppet enthusiasts, and more! Their exhibits and museums are for fans only, although certain longtime members are allowed to bring non members with them during visits.
Now. How do you become a member of the fanclub? Well the process is very long and intense! For starters, you have to have at least two members vouch for you in order to even be allowed to submit a written application to the club. (And they check for grammar as well!) When I say written, that means pen to paper too. Typed applications are not even considered, so if you want to join, you’ll have to practice your handy work. Then you have to wait upwards anywhere from five months to a full year before the organizer of your local club will reach out to you in order to conduct an interview. I’m not sure what takes place after! The initiation process is very secretive, and telling non members can result in expulsion from the club for life. (However you can pay a fee to rejoin.) It’s all very complicated and interesting to learn about! How the intricacies of fan culture have changed from when Dorothy Do first entered the public view.