June 03

Born in 1866, George Howells Broadhurst began his career as a playwright with early successes like 'What Happened to Jones' (1897). He later managed and produced productions at the Broadhurst Theatre, which was named in his honor. Broadhurst's plays, blending humor with social observation, helped shape American musical comedy and drama. He collaborated with leading performers and composers of his time, bringing innovative staging and production values to Broadway. His contributions to theatre management and playwriting left a lasting legacy in New York's theatrical scene.

Born in Yalta, Crimea, Alla Nazimova emigrated to the United States in 1905 and quickly rose to fame on Broadway. She became one of the first women in Hollywood to produce, direct, and write her own films, challenging the male-dominated studio system. Nazimova's intense acting style and willingness to tackle controversial themes made her a defining figure of the silent era. She founded Nazimova Productions, where she created lavish adaptations of classic literature, including her celebrated film 'Salomé'. Later in life, she championed avant-garde theater and supported emerging artists in New York's Greenwich Village. Nazimova's legacy endures as a pioneer who reshaped early film and opened doors for women in cinema.

Baburao Painter was a visionary artist who founded the Maharashtra Film Company in 1918, one of India's earliest studios. He wrote, directed, and starred in silent films that showcased Indian culture and folklore. His innovative use of visual storytelling and technical experimentation advanced the craft of filmmaking in India. Painter also designed elaborate sets and costumes, elevating production values in the nascent industry. Beyond cinema, he was a respected painter and sculptor, blending fine arts with motion pictures. His legacy lives on in the vibrant tradition of regional and national Indian filmmaking.

Maurice Evans was an English actor renowned for his interpretations of Shakespearean roles on stage, particularly with the Old Vic and on Broadway. He moved to the United States in the 1930s, starring in Broadway productions and later transitioning to supporting roles in Hollywood films. Evans appeared on popular television series, including guest spots on the 1960s Batman show. He directed several stage productions and was sought after for his classical theatrical expertise. His career helped bring Shakespearean drama to American audiences. Evans's versatility across stage, screen, and television left a lasting mark on performing arts.

Eddie Acuff was an American character actor who appeared in over 50 films throughout his career. He became familiar to audiences for his supporting roles in the popular Andy Hardy series of family comedies. Acuff also featured prominently in Republic Pictures westerns and early television variety shows. His affable screen presence and comic timing made him a sought-after performer during Hollywood's Golden Age. Despite often playing secondary characters, he brought depth and charm to each role. Acuff's career spanned from the late silent film era until his tragic death in an automobile accident in 1956.

Jan Peerce was a leading American tenor whose career spanned over five decades, notably at the Metropolitan Opera where he sang major roles in Italian and French operas. He gained widespread recognition through radio broadcasts of the NBC Symphony Orchestra under Arturo Toscanini. Peerce also appeared in Hollywood musicals and popular television programs, bridging the gap between opera and mainstream entertainment. His best-selling recordings of arias and popular songs introduced classical vocal art to a broader public. Peerce championed Jewish composers and frequently included their works in his recitals. His warm stage presence and technical mastery made him one of the most beloved tenors of the 20th century.

Josephine Baker was an iconic performer whose exotic dance routines and charismatic presence made her one of the most celebrated stars of the Jazz Age. After moving to Paris in the 1920s, she became the highest-paid entertainer in Europe and a symbol of the Roaring Twenties. During World War II, Baker used her fame to gather intelligence for the French Resistance, transmitting secret messages hidden in her sheet music. She later became a vocal civil rights advocate, refusing to perform for segregated audiences in the United States. Baker adopted a multicultural ‘Rainbow Tribe’ of children to promote racial harmony and world peace. She was honored with the Croix de Guerre and the Legion of Honour for her wartime service.

Paulette Goddard rose to fame in the 1930s as a leading lady in films like Modern Times and The Great Dictator alongside Charlie Chaplin. A sought-after model, she graced the covers of major magazines and set fashion trends. Goddard's performances blended charm and comedic timing, earning her critical acclaim. She starred in hits such as The Women and So Proudly We Hail!, showcasing her dramatic range. Her captivating career spanned stage, screen, and photography, leaving an indelible mark on entertainment history.

Ellen Corby began her career writing screenplays for Hollywood studios before transitioning to acting. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of Esther 'Grandma' Walton, a role that earned her three Emmy Awards. Corby appeared in over 200 television episodes and films, showcasing her versatility in drama and comedy. Her early work includes credits in films like Gone with the Wind. A resilient performer, she overcame a stroke in the 1970s to continue acting, inspiring colleagues and fans.

Leo Gorcey gained fame in the 1930s as a streetwise character in the Dead End Kids film series. He co-founded The Bowery Boys, starring in over 40 comedy films that delighted audiences with urban wit and slapstick humor. Gorcey coined the iconic malapropism ‘scram!’ and popularized the catchphrase in American pop culture. His energetic performances and signature screwball style made him a box-office draw. Despite personal struggles, his influence on comedy groups endures in film history.

Patrick Cargill enjoyed a versatile career across theatre, film, and television, earning acclaim for his sharp comedic timing. He starred in the popular sitcom Father, Dear Father, captivating audiences as the hapless novelist Patrick Glover. Cargill's stage work included leading roles in West End productions and Broadway transfers. As a producer, he championed new writing talent and brought innovative comedies to British screens. His elegant style and humor left a lasting impression on 20th-century British entertainment.

Lili St. Cyr rose to fame in the 1940s and 1950s as one of America's most renowned burlesque stars. Known for her elaborate costumes and dramatic reveals, she brought cinematic flair to live performances. St. Cyr headlined major venues across the U.S., influencing fashion and pin-up culture. She also appeared in films and nightclubs, expanding burlesque's popularity. With her blend of sensuality and artistry, she became a cultural icon whose style continues to inspire performers.