CNM Faculty Member Shines in New Hallmark Movie

When Dodie Montgomery sent in her soft audition tape for the Hallmark's “Romance at Hope Ranch” she had no idea of the whirlwind that was about to happen. Within just two weeks, she was cast and on set in Ruidoso, NM ready to hit the ground running.

“It was a quick turnaround, but I was met with so much support from the CNM Theater Department for me to practice what I teach through this opportunity,” she says.

“Romance at Hope Ranch” tells the story of Hope Morgan, played by Allison Sweeney, as she sets out to live her childhood dream of running a ranch. Dodie plays Mayor Winona, a key character throughout the film. 

For Dodie, this experience was unique because of the pace and speed of production.

“The script for the movie was 94 pages, and we had 15 days to shoot everything,” she says. “That meant I had to show up, know my lines, and be ready to jump in, while also being flexible. It was a quick production, but I had a blast.”

While this isn’t Dodie’s first professional acting gig, she says every experience teaches her something new and makes her a better instructor.

“Everything I learned from this production I brought back to the classroom,” she says. “When a teacher actually does what they’re teaching, it deepens and enriches the student experience and showcases that they are learning to do what I do.”

Since filming, Dodie has been teaching at both CNM and UNM and continuing to perfect her own acting techniques. She also hopes folks find joy when they watch the film.

“I think we all could use a little lightheartedness, and this movie will give people a chance for some nice laughs and maybe a few teary moments but of course has a feel-good ending,” she says.

“Romance at Hope Ranch” was released on February 28 and is available on the Hallmark Channel or via streaming.