September 18

Born in 1820 in Dublin, Boucicault became one of the most popular dramatists of the Victorian era, writing hits like "The Colleen Bawn" and "The Shaughraun." He also enjoyed a successful acting career, touring extensively in Britain and the United States. Boucicault was known for his innovative stagecraft and realistic melodrama, influencing the development of modern theater. He founded the Boucicault Theatre in New York and mentored younger playwrights. His blend of Irish themes, social commentary, and dramatic flair made his works enduring classics of the stage.

Frederick John Westcott, known professionally as Fred Karno, was born in 1866 in Exeter, England. He revolutionized music hall comedy with sketch routines emphasizing physical humor and audience interaction. Karno managed popular troupes and launched the careers of stars like Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel. He introduced innovative theatrical techniques, such as breaking the fourth wall and elaborate ensemble staging. In addition to performance, Karno wrote screenplays for early silent films in both Britain and the United States. He toured extensively, popularizing British music hall traditions internationally. Karno passed away in 1941, remembered as a foundational figure in modern comedy.

Francis Phillip Wuppermann, known as Frank Morgan, was born in 1890 in New York City. He appeared in over 90 films across vaudeville, silent and sound eras, showcasing his versatility. Morgan earned an Academy Award nomination for his role opposite Judy Garland in 'The Wizard of Oz' (1939). In that film, he portrayed the Wizard, Professor Marvel, and several other distinct characters. He also starred in comedies, dramas, and musicals, collaborating with MGM's top stars. Morgan's warm on-screen presence made him a beloved supporting actor of Hollywood's Golden Age. He died of a heart attack in 1949, leaving an enduring legacy in American cinema.

Born in 1879 in Christchurch, New Zealand, Alda studied at the Royal College of Music in London under distinguished teachers. She made her operatic debut at Covent Garden in 1906 and quickly gained acclaim for her rich soprano voice. Alda became a star at the Metropolitan Opera in New York, where she excelled in roles by Verdi and Wagner. She also appeared in early silent films and made pioneering recordings of opera arias. Later in her career she taught master classes and wrote memoirs reflecting on her years on the world stage. She passed away in 1952, remembered as one of the finest sopranos of her era.

Born Stanislaus Tone in 1905, Franchot Tone began his career on Broadway before transitioning to Hollywood films. He became known for his refined and elegant performances in dramas and musicals during the 1930s. Tone received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor for his role in Mutiny on the Bounty in 1935. Apart from acting, he explored his musical talents by singing on screen and recording popular songs. He also co-founded a production company, stepping behind the camera as a producer. His marriage to actress Joan Crawford and his resilience after a near-fatal car accident added to his public persona. Tone continued to act in film, theater, and radio until his death in 1968.

Ernest Arthur Coombs (February 26, 1927 – September 18, 2001) was an American-Canadian television personality best known as Mr. Dressup. After moving to Canada in 1964, he joined the CBC and launched the children's show Mr. Dressup in 1967. The program featured puppets like Casey and Finnegan, arts and crafts segments, and gentle storytelling that became a staple of Canadian childhood. Over nearly three decades on air, Coombs inspired creativity, kindness, and imagination in young audiences. He received the Order of Canada in 1996 for his contributions to education and broadcasting.

Born in Parma in 1940, Leo de Berardinis became a leading figure in avant-garde theater in Italy. He co-founded the company Falso Movimento and gained acclaim for his radical reinterpretations of classic texts and his original works blending poetry, improvisation, and visual art. De Berardinis challenged theatrical conventions, incorporating elements of Campania folk traditions and improvisational techniques. His productions, such as his celebrated version of Macbeth, earned international attention for their physicality and poetic language. He also directed choirs and collaborated with musicians to create interdisciplinary performances. Throughout his career, he mentored a generation of Italian performers and directors. De Berardinis died in 2008 after battling kidney failure, leaving a profound impact on contemporary European theater.

Born in 1930 in New York City, he began his career performing on stage and television before moving behind the camera. Sarafian directed the 1971 film “Vanishing Point,” which became a cult favorite for its high-speed car chases and existential themes. He wrote and directed episodes of popular series like “Gunsmoke” and “The Outer Limits,” showcasing his versatility. As an actor, he appeared in films and TV shows spanning five decades. His creative vision influenced independent cinema until his passing in 2013.

Kesaria Abramidze was a Georgian blogger whose fashion and lifestyle insights garnered a large social media following. She parlayed her online success into a modeling career, working for top regional brands and gracing magazine covers. In 2015, she made her acting debut in a popular Georgian television drama, showcasing her versatility on screen. Abramidze received critical praise for her subsequent roles in independent films and stage productions. Known for her stylish presence and entrepreneurial spirit, she also launched a line of beauty products. Her unexpected passing in 2024 was mourned by fans and colleagues across the creative community.