July 10

Ève Lavallière (1866–1929), born Eugénie Fenoglio, was a French stage actress who captivated audiences during the Belle Époque. She performed at renowned venues such as the Comédie-Française and became known for her expressive acting and charm. Lavallière’s career highlighted the vibrancy of French theater at the turn of the century. Her performances in comedies and dramas earned her widespread acclaim. She remains remembered as one of the finest actresses of her era.

Huntley Wright was born in Leeds in 1868 into a theatrical family and made his professional debut in the late 1880s. He gained fame at the Gaiety Theatre in London for his performances in Edwardian musical comedies. Wright became known for his impeccable comic timing, elegant stage presence, and distinctive voice. He transitioned to silent films in the 1910s and later sound films, appearing in both supporting and starring roles. Over his career, he appeared in dozens of productions, influencing early British musical theatre. Wright was admired by peers for his versatility and professionalism. He continued to perform until shortly before his death in 1941, leaving a legacy in both theatre and cinema.

Sæbjørn Buttedahl was born in 1876 in Kristiansund, Norway, and trained at the Kristiania Theatre School before launching his acting career. He performed in numerous stage productions at Norway's National Theatre and appeared in early silent films. In the 1920s, Buttedahl shifted his focus to sculpture, studying under prominent Norwegian artists. He created war memorials, portrait busts of cultural figures, and public monuments displayed across Norway. His sculptural style combined realism with subtle emotional expression. Over his lifetime, he gained acclaim in both performing arts and visual arts circles. Buttedahl's dual career showcased his versatile talent until his death in 1960.

Mel Blanc was one of the most prolific voice actors in entertainment history, lending his talents to hundreds of animated characters. At Warner Bros., he created or refined voices for Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig, Sylvester, and many other beloved Looney Tunes characters. His remarkable vocal range and comedic timing set new standards for animation performance. Blanc’s career spanned radio, television, film, and video games, earning him numerous awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He survived a near-fatal car accident in 1961 and famously continued recording while recovering. Blanc’s legacy endures in the timeless appeal of his characters and the art of voice acting itself.

Born in 1922 in Russia, Behrs emigrated to the United States where she trained in classical ballet and joined prominent dance companies. She transitioned to on-screen roles in Hollywood, appearing in musicals and dramas during the 1940s. Behrs brought grace and presence to both stage and screen, blending her dance expertise with acting. After retiring from film, she dedicated herself to teaching ballet in Los Angeles and supporting the arts community. She passed away in 2004, remembered for her talents and contributions to dance and cinema.

Roland Petit was born in 1924 and trained at the Paris Opera Ballet School, quickly rising to principal dancer. In 1948, he founded the Ballets de Paris, producing innovative ballets such as Carmen and Le Jeune Homme et la Mort. Petit's choreographic style blended classical technique with modern theatricality, influencing dance companies worldwide. He collaborated with composers, designers, and filmmakers, pushing the boundaries of ballet as an art form. Throughout his career, Petit directed major companies, including the Paris Opera Ballet and the Ballet National de Marseille. He passed away in 2011, leaving an enduring legacy in the world of dance.

Born Rodolfo Vera Quizon Sr. in 1928, Dolphy began his entertainment career in postwar Manila vaudeville shows. Over six decades, he starred in more than 200 films and created the beloved sitcom "John en Marsha" which ran for 17 years. Renowned for his impeccable comic timing and warmth, he earned the title "King of Comedy" among Filipinos. Beyond acting, he produced television programs and championed Filipino humor on stage and screen. His enduring legacy shaped Philippine entertainment until his death from multiple organ failure in 2012.

Born in 1912 in Saharanpur, India, Zohra Sehgal trained in classical dance at Uday Shankar’s India Cultural Centre. She pioneered modern dance in India and toured Europe with Shankar’s troupe in the 1930s. Sehgal transitioned to acting, starring in stage productions, films, and television both in India and abroad. Her memorable performances include roles in Merchant Ivory films and the BBC’s The Jewel in the Crown. Renowned for her wit and vivacious personality, she remained active as a performer well into her 90s. Sehgal received the Padma Shri and Padma Vibhushan for her contributions to the arts. Her enduring talent and versatility made her an icon of Indian theater and cinema.

Roger Rees was born in 1944 in Aberystwyth, Wales, and trained at the Royal Shakespeare Company. He won both an Olivier Award and a Tony Award for his role in The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby. Transitioning to American theater and television, he starred in Cheers and various Broadway productions. As a director, he helmed plays at leading institutions including the Goodman Theatre and the Kennedy Center. Rees was renowned for his charismatic stage presence and versatility across genres. He mentored young performers and brought innovative interpretations to classic works. His career bridged European repertory theater and modern American entertainment.

Omar Sharif was born Michel Demitri Shalhoub in 1932 in Alexandria, Egypt. He gained international fame for his Oscar-nominated performance as Sherif Ali in Lawrence of Arabia (1962). Sharif continued his Hollywood success with a leading role in Doctor Zhivago (1965). His charismatic presence and multilingual talent made him one of the most recognizable actors of his era. Sharif also enjoyed a passion for contract bridge, winning championships and broadcasting on the game. He appeared in over 100 films in Arabic, English, and French during a career spanning six decades. Sharif’s legacy endures as a bridge between Eastern and Western cinema.