Elsa Lanchester

Remembered internationally for her roles as Anne of Cleves in “The Wives of Henry VIII” and as Frederikje Stoffels in “Rembrandt,” both in support of her husband, Charles Laughton, Elsa Lanchester is perhaps best remembered by Los Angeles theater-goers for the 12 years during which she appeared nightly at the Turnabout Theatre.

It was my privilege (and a rare one for a writer) to supply her with songs: dozens of them, funny songs and sad songs, for working with her was both an inspiration and a challenge.

She was an amazingly versatile performer who could transform herself in a few minutes from a scrub woman to a sophisticated charmer, and be utterly believable as both.

A complete professional, she never allowed a number to be seen until she felt it was right in every nuance and gesture. Every role she undertook she made memorable. She was vivacious, she was witty, and she has assured herself a lasting place in theatrical history.

FORMAN BROWN

Hollywood