Disney Scribe Takes Center Stage at SHM Event

Sedona entertainer Dev Ross shared her journey as “Disney’s First Female Writer” during a presentation at the Sedona Heritage Museum on March 13. Ross reflected on her productive career, which encompasses award-winning work such as an Emmy for “The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” and a Humanitas Award for “Balto II: Wolf Quest.” Her journey began in childhood, inspired by experiences of religious bullying as a Jewish girl.

“I grew up in southern California, a surfer girl at Seal Beach,” Ross recalled, detailing how she turned adversity into creativity. Instead of succumbing to peer pressure, she built a puppet stage in her backyard, charging neighborhood kids to watch shows infused with messages of friendship and tolerance. “I didn’t realize it then; I was just trying to defend myself,” she explained.

Ross graduated from college in 1974 and briefly worked as a server before joining a small theatre troupe that quickly evolved into a significant equity touring company. “Within ten years, we became a major player traveling across the U.S.,” she noted, even producing a successful PBS TV show during that time.

In 1985, while working at a camp led by Jane Fonda, Ross became a script analyst for Fonda. Reflecting on their collaboration, Ross stated, “She encouraged me to become a writer, emphasizing the unique perspective women bring to storytelling.”

Ross also shared insights about Fonda’s experiences amid political controversy, revealing how Fonda’s resilience to criticism, including bomb threats, was both inspiring and educational. “Famous or not, you face challenges, especially with family,” Ross added, quoting Fonda’s advice on parenting.

Securing a job at Disney in 1986 while nine months pregnant was another significant milestone for Ross. “They needed women writers due to government pressure,” she stated. “I felt fearless during the pitch, motivated by my condition.” This bold move led to a successful tenure at Disney that lasted until 1993, followed by writing for Universal Studios until 2001.

Currently, Ross and her creative partner, Shondra Jepperson, are seeking $350,000 to produce a feature-length musical titled “WEirD Detention.” The project focuses on three teenagers escaping a peculiar room featuring a mysterious pinball machine that leads to engaging discussions on nonviolent communication.

Ross will also bring her musical dramedy “The Dead Quilters Society” back to the Mary D. Fisher Theatre on March 29 and 30. For more information and tickets, attendees can contact the Sedona International Film Festival at (928) 282-1177.

Moreover, Sedona Heritage Museum will showcase an additional “Sedona Stories” event, “Tiny Pluto has a Big Heart,” featuring author Diane Phelps Budden and Lowell Observatory historian Kevin Schindler on March 27 at 10 a.m. This presentation will explore Pluto’s discovery and its significance in Arizona’s astronomical history.