“IW BWDT KP….. (Please refer to your newspaper for complete puzzle.)
TODAY’S CLUE: L = R
ANSWER: “TO HOLD AN AUDIENCE IS AN UNNATURAL THING … IT’S ONLY NATURAL FOR THE MAGIC SPELL TO BREAK … DON’T LET IT WAVER.” —CAROL CHANNING
Carol Channing
January 31, 1921 – January 15, 2019 • aged 97 • American Actress, Singer & Comedian
🎭 A Broadway Legend
Carol Channing was an American actress, singer, and comedian best known for her unforgettable performances in Broadway musicals. With her distinctive raspy voice, wide smile, and energetic personality, she became one of musical theater’s most recognizable stars.
🌟 From Seattle to the Stage
Channing was born in Seattle, Washington, and grew up in San Francisco, California. She developed an interest in performing while attending school and later studied drama at Bennington College in Vermont. She eventually moved to New York City to pursue a professional acting career.
💎 Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend
Channing achieved her breakthrough in the 1949 Broadway musical Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, playing the glamorous Lorelei Lee. Her performance of Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend became a signature moment in her career. The role established her as a leading Broadway star.
🎩 Hello, Dolly!
In 1964, Channing originated the title role in the Broadway musical Hello, Dolly! Her portrayal of the lively matchmaker Dolly Gallagher Levi earned her the Tony Award for Best Actress in a Musical. She returned to the role in several Broadway revivals and performed it thousands of times throughout her career.
🎬 Hollywood & Awards
Channing also appeared in films and television productions. Her performance in the 1967 musical comedy Thoroughly Modern Millie earned her a Golden Globe Award and an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. She received a special Tony Award in 1968 and a Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in 1995.
🌹 A Lasting Theatrical Legacy
Channing continued performing well into her later years and remained an enthusiastic supporter of arts education. She died on January 15, 2019, just 16 days before her 98th birthday. Her performances in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Hello, Dolly! remain defining moments in American musical theater history.
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