Over 20 years ago, when Bette Midler was pregnant,
Disney Studios flew Donna Maxon to Burbank to screen test for body double
work for the movie, "Outrageous Fortune." When Donna met Bette Midler at
the studio, she was overcome with excitement. Donna has always been a devoted
Bette Midler fan. The two women spoke a few words and the last thing that
Bette Midler said to Donna was, "Girl, you have a career!" And Bette Midler
was certainly correct! Because Donna has had a diverse and interesting career
in the entertainment industry.
Donna has traveled nationally and internationally
doing her Bette Midler tribute show. She considers her act, "theater-to-go." Her
cabaret style show incorporates music, comedy, audience participation, motivational
speaking, customized writing and a unique game with prizes.
Donna is known
for her professionalism, honesty, integrity and ethical approach to business.
She considers herself an ambassador of goodwill for whomever she is working
with. Donna truly enjoys meeting new people and touching them with her special
talents. She considers herself, "a
performance artist; and my art form is about the effect I have on other
people." She feels that, "my job is to transport my audience on a fun, musical
journey away from the troubles of everyday life and into a world of laughter
and melody and color and sunshine.I am a beacon of light."
Donna's natural
resemblance to Bette Midler is uncanny. "Even
in my gym clothes and sneakers, I will be stopped by a stranger who has
to remark about how I look just like Bette Midler!" But when Donna gets
dressed up in her costume and make-up, her look is absolutely divine!! "And
even other celebrities have thought that I was the real Bette Midler," reports
Donna.
Donna is most proud that her work has been able to help charities
raise needed funds. Donna supports charities that benefit disabled children. "As
a parent of a child with autism, I try to help other families whenever I
can. I am thankful for the help I have received over the years and I want
to give back to my community and be a role model for other mothers who need
my support," says Donna. "One of my proudest moments was being asked to
make a keynote speech at the Family Support Fair for the Staten Island Developmental
Disabilities Council held at the College of Staten Island. Parents and professionals
in this field are doing G-d's work daily," Donna says.
Donna has been called upon to be a spokesperson for other groups as well.
She recently was the spokesperson for A & E Biography on their rollout of
their newest series of programs, which included a special on Bette Midler's
life. And on the Wayne Brady television show, Donna was chosen by the LA
Weight Loss program to represent them on this national program. While on
the program, Donna belted out the tune, "I'm Beautiful," with the band!
Some
of Donna's most high profile work has included her television appearances.
Some of her credits include:
- Saturday Night Live
- MTV Celebrity Deathmatch (voiceover for Bette Midler puppet)
- The Wayne Brady Show
- One Life to Live
- Many talk shows and news programs
Also television commercials for the TriState Ford Motor Company
and Bennigan's. Donna specializes in private party entertainment, corporate
events and fundraising functions. She also has performed in many casinos and
night clubs. Currently Donna is starring in a play that she wrote, "The Divine
Rock-n-Roll Road Show." This
production co-stars her music teacher and long time friend, classic
rock legend, Mr. Jimmie Mack.
