July 29

Trained in the Moscow Art Theatre under Stanislavski, Ouspenskaya emigrated to the U.S., co-founding the School of Dramatic Art in New York City. She earned Academy Award nominations for her performances in 'Love Affair' and 'Dodsworth', and appeared memorably in 'The Wolf Man'. Her teaching influenced future generations of American actors, making her a pioneer of method acting in the West.

Theda Bara (1885–1955), born Theodosia Burr Goodman, was a pioneering American actress of the silent film era. She gained fame for her sultry screen persona and exotic costumes, earning the nickname 'The Vamp' for her femme fatale roles. Bara starred in dozens of films during the 1910s, including the blockbuster hit 'A Fool There Was' (1915) which solidified her status as a major star. Her portrayals often challenged contemporary norms of femininity, making her a cultural phenomenon. Despite the loss of most of her films to decay and fire, Bara’s image continues to influence representations of the 'vamp' archetype in cinema. After retiring from acting in the 1920s, she lived a private life away from the spotlight until her death in 1955.

William Powell (1892–1984) was an American actor and occasional singer renowned for his suave demeanor and quick wit on screen. He rose to fame during the 1930s with memorable performances in 'The Thin Man' series alongside Myrna Loy, portraying the witty detective Nick Charles. Powell’s versatility allowed him to excel in comedies, dramas, and musicals, earning him three Academy Award nominations for Best Actor. His work with directors like Ernst Lubitsch and William A. Wellman showcased his range, from romantic leads to complex character roles. Beyond film, Powell also performed on stage and radio, demonstrating his talents as a singer in select productions. His enduring legacy includes nearly 100 films that continue to influence actors and filmmakers.

Clara Bow was a groundbreaking American film actress whose vivacious screen presence defined the flapper era of the 1920s. Born in 1905, she rose from humble beginnings to stardom with her role in the 1927 film 'It,' earning her the nickname 'The It Girl.' Bow appeared in over 40 films, transitioning successfully from silent pictures to talkies. Her magnetic charm and modern persona made her a symbol of youthful independence. Despite her fame, she faced personal struggles and retired from acting in the early 1930s. Bow's legacy influenced future generations of actresses and remains celebrated in Hollywood history. She passed away in 1965, remembered as one of silent cinema's brightest stars.

Thelma Todd (1906-1935) was a popular American actress and singer who appeared in over 120 films and shorts. Nicknamed The Ice Cream Blonde, she starred alongside comedy legends such as Laurel and Hardy. Todd also co-owned a fashionable cafe in California, where Hollywood's elite gathered. Her career was marked by her charm, wit, and screen presence in both comedies and dramas. Todd's mysterious death at the age of 29 has fueled decades of intrigue and speculation. She remains a memorable figure of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Gale Page (1910-1983) was an American actress known for her supporting roles in classic Hollywood films. She appeared alongside stars like James Cagney in You Can't Get Away with Murder and William Powell in Shadow of the Thin Man. Page also graced the Broadway stage before transitioning to movies and later television. Her performances were praised for their natural charm and versatility. After a successful run in entertainment, she retired from acting in the 1950s. Page's contributions to early American cinema reflect the era's evolving film industry.

Irwin Corey (1914-2017) was an American comedian whose improvisational style earned him the moniker The World's Foremost Authority. He developed a unique persona of a bumbling intellectual delivering nonsensical lectures filled with malapropisms. Corey appeared on programs like The Ed Sullivan Show, in films such as How to Commit Marriage, and inspired generations of comedians. Beyond comedy, he was an outspoken activist for civil rights and free speech. His career spanned over seven decades, and he was beloved for his wit and social commentary. Corey's legacy endures in the world of absurdist and satirical comedy.

He began his career in theater, making his film debut in the early 1950s. He rose to prominence with performances in war dramas and romantic films, notably starring opposite Sandra Dee in 'A Summer Place' (1959). His tall, commanding presence made him a Hollywood heartthrob of his era. He also served as president of the Screen Actors Guild in the early 1960s, advocating for actors' rights. Over his career, he appeared in over 30 films and several television series. Egan remained active in the industry until the late 1970s and is remembered as a fixture of Hollywood's Golden Age.

Born in 1923 in Patterson, New Jersey, Mitchell excelled in bodybuilding competitions before turning to acting. He gained fame in the early 1960s, starring in Italian peplum films alongside mythic heroes like Hercules. Mitchell later appeared in spaghetti westerns and action pictures, showcasing his stunt and fight skills. With over 50 film credits, he became a cult favorite among genre enthusiasts. Beyond acting, he worked as a stunt coordinator and martial arts instructor. Mitchell's blend of strength and screen charisma left a unique mark on mid-century action cinema. He passed away in 2003.

Born in 1924 in Toronto, Bochner began performing on stage as a child before relocating to Broadway in the 1950s. He transitioned to Hollywood, guest-starring on series such as Perry Mason, Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea, and The Twilight Zone. His most notable role came as Chief Inspector Neil Campbell on The Rockford Files (1974–1980), where his sharp wit and charisma earned acclaim. Bochner also lent his voice to animated series, including the character Hush in Batman: The Animated Series. Throughout his career, he earned critical praise and several awards in both Canada and the United States. Bochner remained active in acting and voice-over roles until his death in 2005, leaving a lasting legacy in multiple entertainment mediums.

Born in 1924, Horton began his acting journey on Broadway, appearing in hit musicals such as Kiss Me, Kate. In 1957, he was cast as the charming scout Flint McCullough on Wagon Train, one of television's highest-rated Westerns, appearing in over 200 episodes. His portrayal of the fearless frontiersman made him a household name. After departing the series in 1962, Horton returned to the stage and starred in regional theater productions. He also recorded several albums showcasing his baritone singing voice. Horton remained connected to Western fandom through convention appearances and interviews. He passed away in 2016, remembered for his significant contribution to classic television.

Born in 1930, Paul Taylor emerged as a pioneering figure in American modern dance, blending classical technique with innovative movement. After studying at Juilliard, he danced with Martha Graham and then established his own company in 1954. Taylor's choreography, including works like 'Esplanade' and 'Aureole', became celebrated for its musicality and emotional depth. Over a career spanning six decades, he created more than 140 works, earning accolades such as the National Medal of Arts and a Kennedy Center Honor. His dancers toured worldwide, influencing the development of contemporary dance. Taylor's commitment to his art form and mentorship of emerging artists solidified his reputation as one of the twentieth century's most influential choreographers.