September 06

Max Schreck was a German stage and film actor born in 1879. He gained enduring fame for his chilling performance as Count Orlok in F.W. Murnau’s 1922 silent horror classic "Nosferatu." Schreck’s haunting screen presence and physicality made the character a landmark in cinematic history. Before film, he worked extensively in theatre, refining his craft in expressionist productions. Though he appeared in other films, he never matched the cult success of Nosferatu. Schreck died in 1936, but his legacy continues to influence horror media.

Otto Kruger was an American actor born in 1885 who became a familiar face in Hollywood films and on television. Often cast as charming villains and polished gentlemen, he appeared in notable films such as "High Noon," "Saboteur," and "The Letter." Kruger began his career on the New York stage before transitioning to the silver screen in the 1930s. His smooth delivery and urbane presence made him a reliable character actor for decades. In later years, he appeared on popular TV shows, demonstrating remarkable versatility. Kruger passed away in 1974, leaving behind a rich body of work.

Clara Kimball Young was an American film actress born in 1890 who rose to fame in the silent era. She starred in numerous popular films and was one of the first women to establish her own production company. Young’s expressive performances and business acumen made her a top box-office draw during the 1910s. Despite challenges transitioning to sound films, she maintained a lasting influence on the industry. Later in life, she appeared in supporting roles and advocated for actors’ rights. Young passed away in 1960, remembered as a pioneering female filmmaker and performer.

Michael Gordon was an American actor and film director active in Hollywood during the mid-20th century. He appeared in stage productions and character roles on screen before transitioning behind the camera. As a director, he helmed films such as "Pillow Talk" and "Cyrano de Bergerac", blending wit and charm in his storytelling. Gordon's collaborative style endeared him to actors and producers alike. He balanced commercial success with creative innovation, contributing to the golden age of Hollywood cinema. His work continues to be celebrated for its sophistication and humor.

Julie Gibson was born in 1913 in Hollywood, California, and began her career on radio. She transitioned to film in the 1940s, appearing in musicals and comedies for major studios. Gibson showcased her vocal talents in films, delivering memorable musical performances. On stage, she starred in vaudeville revues and touring theater productions. Beyond performance, she contributed to USO shows, entertaining troops during World War II. In later years, she taught acting and voice, sharing her experience with aspiring artists. She passed away in 2019 at the age of 106, celebrated for her longevity and showmanship.

John Berry was born in 1917 in New York City and began his career as a Broadway actor. He moved to Hollywood, where he acted, produced, and directed short films. Berry also wrote screenplays and produced features in the late 1940s. Blacklisted during the McCarthy era, he emigrated to France and continued his work. In France, he directed and wrote films such as 'Atoll K' featuring Laurel and Hardy. He taught at the University of Paris, shaping a new generation of filmmakers. Berry returned to the U.S. in the 1960s and resumed his career until his death in 1999.

Born in 1920 in Santos, Brazil, Elvira Pagã began her career as a film actress, becoming one of the country's first vedettes. She captivated audiences with her singing performances on radio and stage, breaking cultural norms with her glamorous style. Pagã expanded into writing, publishing essays and memoirs that detailed her experiences in the entertainment industry. Her fearless attitude made her an icon of Brazilian popular culture during the 1940s and 1950s. She remained a celebrated figure until her death in 2003.

Born in 1935, Isabelle Collin Dufresne adopted the name Ultra Violet and became a defining presence in the pop art world. She starred in several of Andy Warhol’s experimental films and embodied the avant-garde spirit of the Factory. Beyond acting, she wrote memoirs and novels that offered vivid insights into art, fame, and cultural dynamics. Her multifaceted career bridged performance, visual art, and literature, making her an icon of 20th-century creativity. Ultra Violet's influence endures through her writings and her role in one of art history’s most celebrated movements.

Jo Anne Worley was born in 1937 in Lowell, Indiana, and rose to fame as a dynamic comedic actress. She became a standout performer on the television sketch show Rowan & Martin's Laugh-In, enchanting viewers with her exuberance. Worley’s career spans film, Broadway musicals, and television, where her singing and comedic timing shine. Her stage credits include acclaimed productions such as Hello, Dolly! and Peter Pan, demonstrating her versatility. With a career spanning over six decades, she remains a beloved figure in comedy and musical theatre.

Born into the Hearst family in New York City, Berlin emerged as a key figure at Andy Warhol's Factory under the nickname "Brigid Polk". Her Polaroid snapshots, screen tests, and diary entries captured the raw energy of the 1960s art scene. Berlin's multimedia works, often featuring provocative themes and unconventional materials, blurred the lines between art and life. She appeared in several Warhol films, including "Chelsea Girls" and "Blow Job", showcasing her avant-garde spirit. Her photography and paintings have been exhibited in galleries worldwide. Brigid Berlin's fearless creativity left an indelible mark on Pop Art culture.

Born Yvonne Ann Burgess in 1940 in Newcastle upon Tyne, Trent began writing songs as a teenager. She partnered with composer Tony Hatch, her future husband, to write chart-toppers like "Reach for the Stars" and "Joanna". Trent also performed in West End musicals including "The Sound of Music" and "Oliver!". Her songwriting prowess earned her multiple Ivor Novello Awards. She hosted radio and television shows, showcasing her versatility as a performer. Battling health challenges later in life, she remained beloved in British entertainment until her death in 2015.

Born in Pretoria in 1941, Mason trained at the Royal Ballet School before joining the company at age 17. As a principal dancer, she performed leading roles in classics such as "Swan Lake" and "Giselle". After retiring from the stage, Mason became rehearsal director and assistant director of the Royal Ballet. In 2002, she was appointed Director of the company and in 2009 became its first female Artistic Director. Under her leadership, the Royal Ballet premiered new works and toured internationally. Cheered for her keen eye and dedication, she retired in 2012, leaving a lasting impact on dance.