About | D O C Studios

OUR STORY

Welcome to D.O.C. Studios

D.O.C. Studios was born from the shared vision of two alumni and Artists-in-Residence of the esteemed theater program at Cleveland School of the Arts, mentored by the late Dr. Scott G. Miller, affectionately known as 'Doc.' Inspired by his unwavering commitment to excellence and his passion for empowering young artists, Ananias J. Dixon and Carl Walton II embarked on a journey to bring Doc's legacy to the broader Cleveland young adult underrepresented communities.

Drawing from Doc's teachings and ethos, D.O.C. Studios officially came to life to share his transformative work. Since its inception, the studio has become a beacon for aspiring actors, filmmakers, and writers seeking an inclusive and safe space to cultivate their craft. Through our diverse range of classes and free 'Mode Mondays' sessions, we strive to increase access to the performative arts, offering a welcoming environment for artists of all backgrounds and skill levels to explore, learn, and develop their craft.

Dr. Miller’s passion for the performing arts and commitment to nurturing young talent have left an indelible mark on the community. As mentors and students of Dr. Miller, our co-founders established D.O.C. Studios to extend his vision. We aim to provide the resources and support needed to continue their artistic journey by focusing on young adults from underrepresented communities.

The studio fosters a supportive and nurturing atmosphere where emerging talents can flourish under the guidance of industry professionals dedicated to giving back to Cleveland and Neighboring Communities. Whether you're a newcomer or a seasoned performer, there's a place for you at D.O.C. Studios to uncover your potential and connect with like-minded creatives.

Join our vibrant artistic community!

MISSION & VALUE

At D.O.C. Studios, we believe in the power of theatre and film to transform lives. As an incubator for Artistic Development, Opportunity, and Community Engagement, we are committed to fostering a collaborative environment that empowers young adults to grow artistically and make a lasting impact.

Empowerment

We strive to empower artists to take creative risks, find their voice, and contribute meaningfully to our society's cultural tapestry.

Community

Our commitment to building a vibrant and supportive artistic community is to foster
connections among artists, audiences, and collaborators, creating a space where the shared
love for theatre and film brings people together with respect and honesty.

Creativity

We champion the transformative power of creativity in the performing arts. We believe in cultivating an atmosphere that sparks innovation, encourages artistic expression, and embraces the unique visions of storytellers in theatre and film.

Opportunities

Our commitment to creating platforms for emerging and established artists ensures that every individual in our community has the chance to explore, experiment, and seize opportunities for artistic expression.

Mission & Value

LEADERSHIP & BOARD

Co-Founder | Executive Director

Ananias J. Dixon

https://www.ananiasjdixon.com/

ANANIAS J. DIXON has an accomplished career as an actor, director, producer, and teaching artist, with extensive experience in theatre, TV, and film. He received his foundation in theater from Cleveland State University and studied film at The City University of NYC, which he has leveraged to excel in diverse artistic roles. Ananias' versatility has been showcased across notable stages and screens as a member of SAG-AFTRA and Equity. He was awarded the 2018 Superior Achievement "Best Actor in a non-musical" award by the Cleveland Critics Circle Theatre Awards for
his role in "Sun Set Baby" at Dobama Theatre.

Through his work with Cleveland Public Theatre, Ananias has demonstrated his directorial talent by developing new works and directing impactful pieces like "10 Minutes to Midnight" and "Von Sonata." He blends innovative storytelling with a keen sense of social impact. This is reflected in his role as Associate Producer for educational programs at Playhouse Square, where he combines literacy with theater to foster social justice. Beyond his artistic pursuits, Ananias is the Co-founder and Executive Director of D.O.C. Studios, a creative platform where he continues to influence performative arts through innovative projects. He produces and directs educational initiatives integrating performing arts into broader social and academic contexts, notably through Playhouse Square's educational programs.

As a Lead Teaching Artist for Disney programs and through his tenure at Playhouse Square and Cleveland School of the Arts, Ananias has influenced aspiring artists. He designs initiatives that combine storytelling with performance art, fostering creativity and collaboration. Through his efforts, he continues to impact the cultural landscape and inspire the next generation of artists.

CARL WALTON II is a multifaceted artist based in Cleveland, OH, who excels as an actor, director, writer, producer, and filmmaker. His dynamic career has taken him from the local stages of Cleveland to the bustling sets of Los Angeles and Atlanta. Carl's impressive television credits include appearances on notable shows such as "Insecure" and "Grown-ish," alongside contributions to many other film and theatre productions. Recognized both locally and nationally, Carl continues to break barriers with his innovative projects. He is currently developing "Figure It Out,"a self-produced TV series, set to stream soon, which promises to showcase his versatile storytelling skills.

In addition to his creative endeavors, Carl is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of D.O.C. Studios. This non-profit organization focuses on teaching acting for the camera and producing films, theater, and live performances. His leadership at D.O.C. Studios reflects his commitment to nurturing new talent and providing artistic opportunities within the community.

A proud graduate of the Cleveland School of the Arts, Carl also contributes to the next generation of artists as a Teaching Artist at the same institution. His educational work emphasizes the practical aspects of creative expression, preparing students for the realities of the entertainment industry. For more insights into his creative world and upcoming projects, follow Carl on social media!