Gene Feist
Theater director and playwright; Roundabout Theatre Co.
Born
Died
2014
12 years ago — 91 years old
Category
Artists & Creatives
Country
United States
Links & References
A prominent figure in American theater, co-founded Roundabout Theatre Company in 1965, which became a significant force in the New York theater scene. Served as artistic director for many years, contributing to the revival and production of classic and contemporary works. Directed numerous plays, bringing attention to lesser-known scripts and playwrights. Established a reputation for innovative staging and fostering new talent in the theater community.
Co-founded Roundabout Theatre Company
Served as artistic director for several decades
Other People Born on January 16th
Fulgencio Batista
Cuban politician and military leader
Born
January 16th, 1901 125 years ago
Died
August 6th, 1973 52 years ago — 72 years old
Served as a colonel in the Cuban army and held the position of President of Cuba from 1940 to 1944 and again from 1952 until 1959. Initially came to power through a military coup, Batista implemented several social and economic reforms during his first term. His second term was marked by repression and corruption, leading to widespread opposition. Eventually, Fidel Castro's revolutionary movement resulted in Batista fleeing Cuba in January 1959.
Continue ReadingKaty Jurado
Mexican actress in film and television
Born
January 16th, 1924 102 years ago
Died
July 5th, 2002 23 years ago — 78 years old
A prominent figure in the film industry, this actress gained recognition for performances in both Mexican and American cinema. Notable roles include participation in the classic western 'High Noon' alongside Gary Cooper, and the film 'The Brave Bulls'. The actress won the Best Supporting Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her role in 'Mister Roberts'. With a career spanning several decades, this actress's contributions to film earned her accolades and paved the way for future Latin American actresses in Hollywood.
Continue ReadingNiccolò Piccinni
Italian composer of opera and music
Born
January 16th, 1728 298 years ago
Died
May 7th, 1800 226 years ago — 72 years old
An influential composer and educator, played a central role in the development of opera in the late 18th century. Operas such as 'La buona figliuola' and 'Nina, o sia la pazza per amore' showcased innovative musical techniques and emotional depth, contributing to the evolution of the genre. Worked in both France and Italy, where contributions to the development of comic opera and collaboration with prominent librettists marked a significant part of the career. Served as director of the Conservatoire de Musique in Paris, influencing the education of future musicians.
Continue ReadingGreedy Smith
Singer-songwriter and keyboardist for Mental As Anything
Born
January 16th, 1956 70 years ago
Died
2019 7 years ago — 63 years old
A musician and songwriter from Australia, contributed significantly to the rock and pop music scene. Co-founded the band Mental As Anything in 1976, which became popular in the late 1970s and 1980s. The group was known for its catchy tunes and energetic performances. Alongside playing the keyboard and providing vocals, crafted several songs that achieved commercial success. The band was a prominent part of Australia’s music scene, especially noted for the hit 'Live It Up'. Greedy Smith's contributions to music extended beyond performing, as involvement in songwriting played a crucial role in the band’s distinctive sound.
Continue ReadingZhou Zuoren
Chinese author and translator of essays
Born
January 16th, 1885 141 years ago
Died
May 6th, 1967 59 years ago — 82 years old
An influential figure in modern Chinese literature, contributed to the introduction of Western literary concepts. Served as a cultural mediator between China and the West during the early 20th century. Published a variety of essays and translations, primarily focusing on Western philosophical and literary works. Engaged with the May Fourth Movement, emphasizing the importance of vernacular literature. His literary work often explored themes of individualism and modernity.
Continue ReadingDebbie Allen
Choreographer of 'Fame' and actress
Born
January 16th, 1950 76 years ago
An American actress, dancer, and choreographer, notable for her work in television and film. Gained widespread recognition for starring in the television series 'Fame' from 1982 to 1987, both as a performer and a choreographer. Served as a director and producer on various television programs, contributing significantly to the arts community. Allen is also an advocate for the arts in education and has created opportunities for young artists through various initiatives.
Continue Reading