Lynn Fontanne

Lynn Fontanne, a paragon of the theatrical arts, has earned her place in the annals of performance history through a career that captivated audiences for over three decades. Born Lillie Louise Fontanne on December 6, 1887, in Woodford, Essex, England, she became synonymous with artistry and grace on the stage. Her journey to eminence was marked by a remarkable partnership, both personal and professional, with her husband, Alfred Lunt, that reshaped the landscape of American theater. Fontanne’s early foray into acting came in the bustling theatrical scene of London, where she began honing her skills. However, her life would take a decisive turn in the United States, a country that became both her adopted home and the platform for her enduring legacy. In 1919, Fontanne's career trajectory shifted indelibly when she met Alfred Lunt. Their meeting was fortuitous. It was an encounter destined to forge one of the most iconic duos of the stage. Their marriage in 1922 cemented not only a romantic union but also one of theater’s most celebrated partnerships. Together, Fontanne and Lunt created a prodigious body of work, renowned for its wit, elegance, and commitment to excellence. The couple was uniquely suited to one another. They shared an intuitive understanding, navigating the intricacies of theater with unparalleled synergy and mutual respect. The pair became synonymous with Broadway's golden age, with performances that established their reputation for meticulous craft and dynamic range. They instinctively understood how to elevate every text they encountered, breathing life into each role with authenticity and nuance. Their performances were characterized by a seamless interchange of dialogue and an animated dance of emotions, setting a standard many aspired to but few matched. Fontanne's range allowed her to embrace an array of diverse roles. She exhibited an exquisite ability to switch seamlessly between comedy and drama, a dexterity that enchanted audiences and endeared her to legions of fans. Her portrayal of Elizabeth Barrett in "The Barretts of Wimpole Street" (1931) remains one of her most celebrated performances—a testament to her profound capacity to convey depth and complexity. Throughout their careers, Fontanne and Lunt were tireless in their pursuit of artistic integrity. They shunned Hollywood's alluring lights, opting instead for the immediacy and intimacy of the theater. Though Fontanne appeared in only a few films, most notably the rarely-seen "The Guardsman" (1931) with Lunt, it was on the stage where she truly excelled. Her commitment to live performance was unyielding; for her, the theater was not merely an occupation but a vocation. The couple's discerning preference for the stage came to define their legacy. They were instrumental in reviving old works and introducing new ones, often serving as both stars and producers. In 1925, they made their mark with Ferenc Molnár’s "The Play's the Thing," and in subsequent years, they showcased their versatility in works from Shakespeare to Noël Coward, expanding the boundaries of theatrical presentation. In the post-war era, their achievements were recognized with numerous accolades, including a shared Tony Award in 1955, the year awards were introduced. Their contributions to the arts were acknowledged with the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1964, a testament to their influence beyond the theatrical world. Lynn Fontanne’s luminous presence extended beyond her performances. She and Lunt made their home at Ten Chimneys in Genesee Depot, Wisconsin, which they transformed into a creative haven. Ten Chimneys became a sanctuary for theater luminaries, fostering an environment where creativity flourished. The legacy of Lynn Fontanne endures not only in the records of her many triumphs but in the indelible impact she left on the art of acting. Her career was characterized by an unwavering commitment to excellence and an unerring sense of partnership with Lunt that remain benchmarks in theater history. Her death on July 30, 1983, in Genesee Depot marked the end of an era, but her spirit continues to inspire. To revisit the work of Lynn Fontanne is to be reminded of an era when the theater was a grand tapestry of human experience, woven by the hands of devoted craftsmen and women like herself. She left behind a legacy as rich and complex as the characters she portrayed—her story a testament not only to her singular talent but to an enduring love for an art form to which she dedicated her life. Her unique blend of skill, intelligence, and passion cemented her place as one of the true luminaries in theater history.