Enchanting Vaudeville Star from the Roaring Twenties

This photograph features Nora Bayes, a prominent American singer, actress, and vaudeville performer popular in the early 20th century. Captured between 1920 and 1925 by the Bain News Service, this glass negative reflects an era when Bayes was a significant figure on stage, captivating audiences with her dynamic performances and powerful voice. She was particularly known for her work in musical comedy and became famous for songs like Shine On, Harvest Moon and her appearances in various Broadway productions.

During this period, vaudeville was a popular form of entertainment across the United States, showcasing a variety of acts that included music, comedy, and dance. Nora Bayes stood out as one of the few female performers who successfully crossed over from vaudeville to Broadway, illustrating her versatility and significant impact on the performing arts. As a celebrated artist of her time, Bayes played a key role in shaping early 20th-century American entertainment, making this photograph an important artifact of that vibrant cultural landscape.