Category Archives: Vaudeville

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

 

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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Donna Darling’s Surprise Appearance in Portland, Oregon – May 26, 1924.

Posted on May 26, 2025 by Don Taylor

An exciting discovery from The Oregonian (May 26, 1924)!
My grandmother, Madonna Montran—also known as Donna Darling—was a surprise addition to the vaudeville lineup that week, performing alongside her two male dance partners. Described as “a darling maid,” Donna’s act was full of lively steps and charming group songs. It’s always a thrill to uncover new stories from Donna’s 1910s-1920s showbiz days! Continue reading →

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Donna Darling at Imperial Theatre, Cleveland, OH, May 25-27, 1927.

Posted on May 25, 2025 by Don Taylor

Donna in the News98 Years Agoby Don Taylor “Donna in the News” reports newly found newspaper articles and advertisements regarding my grandmother, Madonna Montran (aka Donna Montran and Donna Darling). I am always excited when I see a new venue … Continue reading →

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Chin-Chin in the News – 9 April 1920.

Posted on April 9, 2025 by Don Taylor

The Zanesville Signal (Zanesville, OH) Weller TheaterVaudeville/Chin-ChinBy Don Taylor My grandmother was a vaudeville star. I am following her career and learning about her many performances. In October 1919, she joined the cast of the Charles Dillingham production of “Chin-Chin” … Continue reading →

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