Ruth Attaway, a celebrated American actress, made a lasting impact on the world of film and theater, born on a warm summer day, June 28, 1910, in the charming city of Greenville, Mississippi, to a distinguished physician, W.A. Attaway, who held a PhD. As the eldest of three siblings, Attaway's family consisted of a sister, Florence, and a brother, William, with whom she shared a close bond.
Attaway's academic endeavors took her to the esteemed University of Illinois, where she pursued a degree in sociology, ultimately graduating with honors.
Noted American actress and theater pioneer, Attaway embarked on a storied career on the Broadway stage in 1936, making her debut in the esteemed Pulitzer Prize-winning play, "You Can't Take It with You". This auspicious beginning marked the commencement of her illustrious career, replete with numerous accolades and milestones to follow.
In 1945, Attaway took the initiative to establish the New York Players Guild, a groundbreaking black repertory theater company, and subsequently assumed the role of its inaugural director. Throughout her distinguished career, Attaway collaborated with various esteemed theater companies, including the Repertory Society of Lincoln Center, where she remained from 1964 to 1967.
New York Players Guild Biography:
The New York Players Guild was a pioneering black repertory theater company founded in 1945 by actress and director, Attaway. As the company's first director, Attaway played a pivotal role in shaping its artistic vision and mission. The New York Players Guild aimed to provide a platform for black artists to showcase their talents and create a space for diverse voices to be heard. Under Attaway's leadership, the company produced numerous productions, cementing its status as a beacon of innovation and artistic excellence in the world of American theater.
Attaway's cinematic debut took place in the year 1953, where she brought to life the character of Moll in the historical drama film "The President's Lady", starring alongside esteemed actresses Susan Hayward and Charlton Heston, a legendary actor in his own right. Following this initial foray into the world of film, Attaway went on to portray a diverse array of characters in various motion pictures, showcasing her remarkable versatility as a thespian.
Notable in her multifaceted career, Attaway's artistic endeavors extended far beyond the realm of stage and screen, as she also made significant contributions to the world of television.
The life of Attaway was marked by a profound and enduring love affair, one that began with her marriage to Allan Morrison, a respected and accomplished editor of the esteemed publication Ebony. This union, which was to last until the untimely and tragic passing of her beloved husband on May 29, 1968, at the age of 51, was a testament to the power of true devotion and partnership.
Despite the devastating loss she suffered, Attaway's spirit remained unbroken, and she continued to pursue her passion for the entertainment industry with unwavering dedication and enthusiasm. Her remarkable career, which spanned many years, was marked by numerous successes and achievements, and she remained a vibrant and vital presence in the world of entertainment until her own passing on September 21, 1987, at the age of 77.
Tragically, Attaway's life was cut short in a sudden and shocking turn of events, as she succumbed to injuries sustained in a devastating Manhattan apartment fire at New York Hospital. Despite the brevity of her life, however, Attaway's legacy lived on, a testament to her enduring spirit and her unwavering commitment to her craft.
