Three Trailblazing Actresses of 1917s Theater Scene

In 1917, a striking photograph captured three prominent women: Frances Starr, Gladys Hanson, and Chrystal Herne. All three were well-known figures in the world of theater at the time, each contributing to the vibrant landscape of early 20th-century performance art. Their careers intersected with the rise of film and theater, showcasing the shifting cultural dynamics and the growing prominence of women in these fields.

This image, taken by a photographer from the Bain News Service, not only documents their likeness but also reflects the eras fascination with celebrity and the performing arts. At the time, the American theater was undergoing significant changes, moving from vaudeville to more narrative-driven plays. The presence of these women in a photograph emphasizes their roles in shaping the entertainment world during a transformative period in history.