Ray Bolger: More Than Scarecrow

Ray Bolger: More than a Scarecrow

by Martha A. Sandweiss

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3403 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	253 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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Ray Bolger was an American actor, dancer, and singer who is best known for his role as the Scarecrow in the 1939 film The Wizard of Oz. However, Bolger's career spanned over five decades and included a wide range of roles in film, television, and theater.

Early Life and Career

Ray Bolger was born Raymond Wallace Bolger in Boston, Massachusetts on January 10, 1904. His parents were Irish immigrants, and he grew up in a working-class neighborhood. Bolger began his performing career at a young age, singing and dancing in local talent shows.

In 1925, Bolger made his Broadway debut in the musical "Dearest Enemy." He went on to appear in a number of Broadway shows throughout the 1920s and 1930s, including "Girl Crazy" (1930),"Anything Goes" (1934),and "On Your Toes" (1936).

The Wizard of Oz

In 1939, Bolger was cast as the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz. The film was a huge success, and Bolger's performance as the lovable and cowardly Scarecrow became one of his most iconic roles.

Bolger's Scarecrow was a complex and sympathetic character. He was not only a physical scarecrow, but also a metaphor for the human condition. Bolger's performance brought a sense of humanity to the role, making the Scarecrow one of the most memorable characters in the film.

Later Career

After The Wizard of Oz, Bolger continued to appear in films and television shows. He starred in a number of musicals, including "The Gang's All Here" (1943),"Where Do We Go From Here?" (1945),and "April in Paris" (1952).

Bolger also appeared in a number of dramatic roles, including "The Other Side of the Wind" (1972) and "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" (1974). He also made guest appearances on a number of television shows, including "The Lucy Show," "The Dick Van Dyke Show," and "The Love Boat."

Legacy

Ray Bolger died of cancer on January 15, 1987. He was 83 years old. Bolger left behind a legacy of entertainment that spanned over five decades. He was a multi-talented performer who could sing, dance, and act with equal skill.

Bolger's most iconic role will always be the Scarecrow in The Wizard of Oz. However, his career was much more than just one role. He was a versatile performer who left a lasting mark on Hollywood.

Ray Bolger was more than just the Scarecrow. He was a multi-talented entertainer who left a lasting legacy on Hollywood. His work continues to bring joy to audiences around the world.

Ray Bolger: More than a Scarecrow

by Martha A. Sandweiss

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3403 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	253 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE