November 13

Edwin Booth (1833-1893) was one of the most distinguished American actors of the 19th century, celebrated for his masterful interpretations of Shakespearean characters. Born in Bel Air, Maryland, he made his stage debut at age 16 and quickly gained acclaim for roles such as Hamlet and Macbeth. He managed Booth's Theatre in New York City, where he introduced innovative stagecraft and production values. Despite personal tragedies, including the assassination of President Lincoln by his brother John Wilkes Booth, Edwin's reputation remained untarnished. He toured extensively across the United States and Europe, influencing generations of performers. Today, he is remembered as a pioneer of American theatre who elevated the dramatic arts to new heights.

John Drew Jr. (1853-1927) was a prominent American stage actor and member of the celebrated Drew theatrical family. Born in Philadelphia, he made his Broadway debut in the early 1870s and quickly earned acclaim for his charm and comedic timing. Drew became a leading man at Augustin Daly's and Charles Frohman's companies, starring in numerous popular comedies. He mentored younger actors and helped define American stage performance standards. Beyond the theater, he was known for his elegant lifestyle and cultivated social circle in New York City. Drew's influence extended to the next generation through his niece, actress Ethel Barrymore. His legacy endures in the annals of American theatre history as a model of professionalism and artistry.

Mary Wigman was born on November 13, 1886. After studying dance and experimenting with masks, she developed a distinctive form of expressionist dance emphasizing emotional authenticity and avant-garde movement. In 1920, Wigman opened her own dance school in Dresden, influencing a generation of dancers with her innovative techniques. Her works, such as 'Hexentanz' (Witch Dance), challenged traditional ballet conventions and explored themes of spirituality and primal energy. Amid political turmoil in the 1930s, she continued to teach and create, leaving a lasting impact on modern dance worldwide.

Gertrude Olmstead was an American actress known for her work in silent films during the 1920s. She starred in comedies, dramas, and action pictures, often portraying spirited leading ladies. Olmstead worked with major studios such as Universal Pictures and appeared alongside stars like Rudolph Valentino. Her expressive performances and screen presence won her acclaim at the height of the silent era. She retired from acting with the advent of sound films, leaving behind a legacy of memorable silent screen roles.

Edward Buzzell began his career as a stage actor before transitioning to film, where he appeared in several musicals and comedies. He found greater success behind the camera, directing films such as "At the Circus" for the Marx Brothers and musicals featuring Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney. Buzzell's breezy style and comedic timing made him a sought-after director in Hollywood's Golden Age. Throughout his career, he demonstrated versatility across genres and contributed to some of the era's most memorable comedic works.

Hermione Baddeley was an English character actress known for her vibrant performances in both theater and cinema. She earned an Academy Award nomination for her role in "Room at the Top" and charmed audiences as Mrs. Medlock in Disney's "The Secret Garden". Baddeley's Broadway and West End stage work showcased her comedic timing and versatility. With a career spanning over five decades, she appeared in films like "Brighton Rock" and television series such as "The Irish R.M.". Her energetic presence and sharp wit made her a beloved figure in British entertainment.

Amelia Bence was born in 1914 in Buenos Aires and made her screen debut as a teenager. She became one of the most celebrated film stars in Argentina, starring in classics like "La guerra gaucha" and "Al marido hay que seguirlo." Bence’s expressive eyes and dramatic presence earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards throughout her career. She transitioned successfully to theater and television, demonstrating versatility across media. Her contributions helped define a golden era of Latin American film and inspired future generations of actresses. Bence received lifetime achievement honors for her enduring impact on the performing arts. She continued acting well into her nineties before passing away in 2016.

Born in 1914, Alberto Lattuada began his career as an actor before co-founding the film magazine Cinematografo with Michelangelo Antonioni in 1938. He made his directorial debut in the early 1940s and went on to helm more than twenty feature films across genres, from post-war dramas to comedies. Lattuada's screenplays often explored social themes, and his collaborations with prominent writers and composers shaped modern Italian film. His influence extended into television during the 1970s and 1980s, and he remained active behind the camera until late in life. Lattuada's contributions have left a lasting mark on Italian cinema.

Robert Sterling began his acting career in the early 1940s before transitioning to television. He gained widespread recognition in the 1953 series "Topper" alongside Leo G. Carroll and went on to make guest appearances on other popular programs of the era. With a career spanning over four decades, he became a familiar face on both the big and small screens. In his later years, he shared his expertise by teaching acting and directing stage productions. He died in 2006 at the age of 88.

Guillermina Bravo was born in 1920 and trained in both traditional Mexican dance and modern techniques. In 1948, she co-founded the Ballet de Bellas Artes, which later became the National Ballet of Mexico under her direction. Over a career spanning more than four decades, she created over two hundred works that blended folk motifs with contemporary choreography. Bravo's leadership fostered generations of dancers and elevated Mexico's presence on the international dance stage. She was honored with Mexico's National Arts Prize for her artistic vision and dedication. She passed away in 2013, leaving a vibrant legacy in the world of dance.

Jack Elam began his Hollywood career in the late 1940s, quickly becoming known for his distinctive misaligned eye and gravelly voice. He appeared in over 200 films and TV shows, often portraying outlaws and henchmen in classics like "Once Upon a Time in the West" and the TV series "Gunsmoke". In the 1970s, Elam showcased his comedic talent in films such as "Support Your Local Sheriff!" and "The Night of the Grizzly". His unique presence made him one of the most memorable character actors of his generation. He continued acting into the 1990s and died in 2003 at the age of 84.

Jack Narz began his broadcasting career as a radio announcer in the 1940s before moving to television. He hosted a series of successful game shows, including "Dough Re Mi", "Video Village", and "Beat the Clock", gaining a reputation for his warm, engaging style. Narz also served as an announcer on programs like "To Tell the Truth" and appeared in guest roles on TV dramas. He was the younger brother of fellow game show host Tom Kennedy. With a career spanning over four decades, Narz played a key role in shaping the early years of American television entertainment. He passed away in 2008.