Adelaide Hall was an American singer and actress who is best known for her roles in The Thief of Bagdad, Dancers in the Dark, and her performances in various theatrical revues. Hall was a trailblazer in jazz music and made significant contributions to the arts over her lengthy career.
Personal and Family Life
Adelaide Louise Hall was born on October 20, 1901, in Brooklyn, New York. She later moved to Harlem, where she was inspired by the vibrant black culture of the 1920s. Her family life supported her ambitions, allowing her to venture into the world of performance from a young age.
Career Highlights
Hall’s career began in the early 1920s when she joined the chorus line of the Broadway musical Shuffle Along. She gained more recognition with her standout performances in Runnin’ Wild and Blackbirds of 1928, which helped her achieve international fame. Over the years, she toured extensively in the U.S. and Europe, captivating audiences with her unique singing style and introducing new dance trends, such as the Charleston.
Death and Legacy
Adelaide Hall passed away on November 7, 1993, in London, England, due to pneumonia. She left behind a rich legacy as one of the most influential black female vocalists of her time, having paved the way for future generations of performers in jazz and musical theater.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Thief of Bagdad | 1940-02-19 | Singer |
| Dancers in the Dark | 1932-03-11 | Gloria Bishop (singing voice) |
| A World Is Turning | 1948-01-01 | |
| An All-Colored Vaudeville Show | 1935-06-21 | Self |
| Great Performances | 1971-01-28 | Self |