Ackley Douglas 1982-12-11
Douglas Ackely, a tent show performer and actor, discusses his recollection of popular tent shows and performers as well as his own career as an entertainer.
General Interview Information
Interviewee Name: Douglas Ackley
Additional Parties Recorded:
Date: December 11, 1982
Location: Dallas, Texas
Interviewer: Cliff Ashby
Length: 45 minutes
Abstract
Tape 1, Side 1:
Family background,
Born Jacksboro, Texas (1918),
Will and Edna Ackley (Parents),
Edna a choreographer and pianist,
Will worked with bands,
From Warren, Ohio,
Thad and Rose Ackley (Grandparents),
How Will and Edna first met,
Douglas Ackley's earliest memories of show business,
Douglas and Edna's vaudeville act,
Thespian Guild,
Douglas' work in nightclubs and early career,
Moved to Texas (1936),
Works for WRR Radio,
Harley Sadler,
"Siege of the Alamo",
Abe's Colony Club,
Douglas' work as a model,
A. Harris Co.,
Jameson Film Co.,
Monroe Hopkins Show,
Fire prevention films,
Jim and Burt Swore,
The Black Crowes,
Douglas in the U. S. army (1940-45),
Wayne Babb,
Ran stock company,
Joe Sideler,
Neil Schafner Show,
Townhall Players (Wisconsin),
Hank Brunk Show,
Mint Tilton Show,
Iowa,
Missouri,
Gets married (1951),
Dancing,
Soft shoe,
Will and Edna Ackley (again),
Show business reminiscences,
Tent falls down,
Sleeping before a show,
Superstitions,
Whistling in a dressing room,
Shoes on table,
"Home Sweet Home",
Douglas' future plans
Tape 1, Side 2:
Paul Hearn,
Happy Hooligan,
Merry Madcalf Co.,
Burlesque,
Strippers,
Gypsy Rose Lee,
Sally Rand,
Harley Sadler (again),
Why popular?,
Merry Madcalf Co. (again),
Edna Ackley (again),
All girl band,
Doug Morgan,
Monroe Hopkins,
Stock company in Houston,
Susie Schafner,
Douglas Ackley's roles,
Light comedy,
Jimmy Davis,
Flo Darling,
Most popular "Toby" character,
Neil Schafner (again)
Range Dates: 1918-1950
Bulk Dates: 1930-1950
Access Information
Original Recording Format:
Recording Format Notes:
Transcript:
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