SCANLAN, W. J.

(1856-1908)

Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Scanlan became the leadingIrishactor and singer of his day. CriticAustin Latchawremembered him as a performer with "real charm, with romantic fervor, and a beautiful voice to express it" (Kansas City Star, 30 April 1935). He made his New York debut inThe White Slave(1882). In 1885, he producedShane-Na-Lawn, which he wrote as a vehicle for himself. His greatest hit,Myles Aroon(1888), remained in hisrepertoireuntil his 1891 retirement, which opened the way forChauncey Olcott.