Category Archives: Vaudeville

The vaudeville career of Madonna Montran, aka Donna Montran, aka Donna Darling.

 

Donna Darling Takes Jacksonville: A 1923 Vaudeville Highlight at the Palace Theatre

Posted on November 17, 2025 by Don Taylor

Donna Darling’s 1923 Jacksonville appearance shines through newly found newspaper clippings. Her vaudeville revue, Song and Dance Romance, was hailed as a seasonal highlight at the Palace Theatre, supported by a strong company and fellow acts. This rediscovery offers a vivid glimpse into the lively world of early 20th-century touring entertainment. Continue reading →

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Donna Darling at the Palace Theater – Superior, WI (April 1924)

Posted on October 1, 2025 by Don Taylor

Explore Donna Darling’s vaudeville performance of Song and Dance Romance at the Palace Theater in Superior, Wisconsin (April 1924). This review highlights her charm, costumes, and the lively artistry of early 20th-century vaudeville. Continue reading →

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Donna Darling at the Moon Theater, Omaha, – September 24–26, 1925

Posted on September 24, 2025 by Don Taylor

In September 1925, Donna Darling appeared at the Moon Theater in Omaha, Nebraska, briefly promoted as one of the “Bobbed Hair Bandits of Vaudeville.” This short-lived nickname drew from the sensational Celia Cooney headlines of the day. Continue reading →

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Donna at Hotel Brenton, Bass Point, Nahant, Mass. August 4, 1915.

Posted on August 2, 2025 by Don Taylor

In 1915, Donna—famously known as the “aeroplane girl”—performed at a grand carnival at Hotel Brenton in Nahant, MA. With vibrant lights, cabaret acts, and dancing, the event was directed by Thomas Rooney, whom Donna married just months later. A vivid piece of early 20th-century entertainment history. Continue reading →

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Donna and the Bathing Beauties: Uncovering My Grandmother’s Vaudeville Ties

Posted on July 14, 2025 by Don Taylor

Discover how a family letter and old vaudeville photos help piece together my grandmother’s days as one of Mack Sennett’s Bathing Beauties — and her possible connections with Helen Kane and Stuart Erwin. Continue reading →

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