Shannon Bolin, American actress and singer (d. 2016)

Shannon Bolin, born on January 1, 1917, and passing away on March 25, 2016, was a distinguished American actress and singer whose career spanned several decades across various entertainment platforms. Renowned for her powerful stage presence and distinctive vocal talents, Bolin left an indelible mark on Broadway, film, and television.

The Lady with the Dark Blue Voice: A Signature Sound

One of Shannon Bolin's most memorable attributes was her unique vocal quality, which earned her a captivating moniker. As early as March 10, 1941, an article in The Mason City Globe-Gazette prominently featured her, referring to her as "The Lady with the Dark Blue Voice." This evocative description was a testament to her rich, resonant contralto or mezzo-soprano voice, often characterized by its depth, warmth, and a certain gravitas. It suggested a vocal instrument capable of conveying profound emotion and power, perfectly suited for the character roles and strong female leads that defined much of her illustrious career on the theatrical stage and beyond.

A Versatile Career Across Stage, Screen, and Television

Shannon Bolin's extensive career showcased her versatility and enduring talent. She seamlessly transitioned between different mediums, earning acclaim for her work in each.

Broadway Prominence

Bolin was a prominent figure on the Broadway stage, where her vocal prowess and dramatic skill truly shone. Her most iconic role was undoubtedly as Meg Boyd in the original 1955 Broadway production of the hit musical Damn Yankees. Her portrayal of the long-suffering wife of a baseball fanatic, opposite Ray Walston and Gwen Verdon, captivated audiences and solidified her status as a theatrical force. She would later reprise this role in the acclaimed 1958 film adaptation, bringing her memorable performance to a wider audience. Other notable Broadway appearances included:

• Take Me Along (1959)
• A Month of Sundays (1951)
• The Golden Apple (1954)

Film and Television Appearances

Beyond the footlights of Broadway, Bolin also made significant contributions to both cinema and television. Her film credits included reprising her role in Damn Yankees (1958), as well as appearing in the critically acclaimed drama The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter (1968), where she played Mrs. Kelly. On television, she was a familiar face, appearing in numerous popular series throughout the mid-20th century. Her television roles often included guest spots in dramatic anthologies and long-running series, demonstrating her range and adaptability to different narrative formats. Examples of her television work include appearances in:

• The Nurses
• The Defenders
• As the World Turns (as a recurring character)

Frequently Asked Questions About Shannon Bolin

What was Shannon Bolin primarily known for?

Shannon Bolin was an accomplished American actress and singer, best known for her prominent roles on Broadway, particularly as Meg Boyd in the original 1955 production of Damn Yankees, a role she reprised in the 1958 film adaptation. She was also recognized for her distinctive voice, often referred to as "The Lady with the Dark Blue Voice."

What does "The Lady with the Dark Blue Voice" mean in reference to Shannon Bolin?

"The Lady with the Dark Blue Voice" was a nickname given to Shannon Bolin as early as 1941, referencing the rich, deep, and resonant quality of her singing and speaking voice. It highlighted her powerful contralto or mezzo-soprano range, which conveyed a sense of depth, warmth, and dramatic intensity.

What were some of Shannon Bolin's most notable performances?

Her most notable performance was as Meg Boyd in the Broadway musical Damn Yankees (1955) and its subsequent film adaptation (1958). She also had significant roles in other Broadway productions like Take Me Along and appeared in films such as The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter, in addition to numerous television guest appearances.