Viola Allen (1869-1948) was an American stage actress of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was born in New York City and began her career in regional theater before making her Broadway debut in 1891. Allen quickly established herself as one of the leading actresses of her time and was known for her dramatic talent and versatility.
She appeared in many popular plays of the day, including works by William Shakespeare, Henrik Ibsen, and Oscar Wilde. Allen was particularly renowned for her performances in strong female roles, such as the character of Hedda Gabler in Ibsen’s “Hedda Gabler” and Portia in “The Merchant of Venice” by Shakespeare. She also played leading roles in productions of Wilde’s “An Ideal Husband” and “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
In addition to her stage career, Allen also appeared in several silent films in the early days of cinema, such as “The Girl of the Golden West” (1915) and “The Warrens of Virginia” (1915).
During her career, Allen was considered one of the most talented actresses of her generation and was often compared to the great actresses of the past such as Sarah Bernhardt. She was also highly respected by her peers and was known for her professionalism and dedication to her craft.
After a successful career spanning several decades, Allen retired from the stage in the 1920s and died in 1948.
