Ray Bolger
Birth Place: Dorchester, MA, USA
Latest News on Ray Bolger:
Carol Burnett Launches Scholarship at UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television (Nov 10, 2025)
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld October 27, 2025- LITTLE BEAR RIDGE ROAD First Look and More (Oct 27, 2025)
Ray Bolger’s 1949 Tony Award for WHERE'S CHARLEY? Up for Auction (Oct 24, 2025)
Carol Burnett Launches Scholarship at UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television (Nov 10, 2025)
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld October 27, 2025- LITTLE BEAR RIDGE ROAD First Look and More (Oct 27, 2025)
Ray Bolger’s 1949 Tony Award for WHERE'S CHARLEY? Up for Auction (Oct 24, 2025)
Photos
STAGE CREDITS
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1946
Solo Act
"The Old Soft Shoe" Singer & Dancer
"If It's Love" Dancer
"A Lovely Lazy Kind of Day" Dancer
Principal
Clyde Griffiths
Salesman
The Sack
He
Jo
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1940
The Tiger
"This is Winter" Dancer
"Rhett, Scarlett & Ashley" Singer
"Raffles" Dancer
"Old Jitterbug" Singer
"Old Jitterbug" Dancer
"Crazy as a Loon" Singer/Dancer
"A Latin Tune, A Manhattan Moon, and You Singer
"A Latin Tune, A Manhattan Moon, and You Dancer
Thirsty Man
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1936
Phil Dolan III
Phil Dolan III (Junior)
Hoofer
Hoofer (Ballet)
[Broadway]
Original Broadway Production, 1934
"The Elks and the Masons" Singer
"You're a Builder-Upper" Singer
"I'm Not Myself" Singer
The Window Dresser
Boccaccio
Stowaway
Pierre
Performer
Movies
The Great Ziegfeld
[ 1936 ] Ray Bolger
[ 1936 ] Ray Bolger
Rosalie
[ 1937 ] Bill Delroy
[ 1937 ] Bill Delroy
Sweethearts
[ 1938 ] Hans
[ 1938 ] Hans
The Wizard of Oz
[ 1939 ] Hunk, The Scarecrow
[ 1939 ] Hunk, The Scarecrow
Sunny
[ 1941 ] Bunny Billings
[ 1941 ] Bunny Billings
Four Jacks and a Jill
[ 1942 ] Nifty Sullivan
[ 1942 ] Nifty Sullivan
Stage Door Canteen
[ 1943 ] Ray Bolger
[ 1943 ] Ray Bolger
The Harvey Girls
[ 1946 ] Chris Maule
[ 1946 ] Chris Maule
Look for the Silver Lining
[ 1949 ] Jack Donahue
[ 1949 ] Jack Donahue
Where's Charley?
[ 1952 ] Charley Wykeham
[ 1952 ] Charley Wykeham
April in Paris
[ 1952 ] S.SamWinthrop Putnam
[ 1952 ] S.SamWinthrop Putnam
Babes in Toyland
[ 1961 ] Barnaby Barnicle
[ 1961 ] Barnaby Barnicle
The Daydreamer
[ 1966 ] The Pieman
[ 1966 ] The Pieman
The Runner Stumbles
[ 1979 ] Monsignor Nicholson
[ 1979 ] Monsignor Nicholson
Heaven Only Knows
[ 1979 ] Simon
[ 1979 ] Simon
Just You and Me, Kid
[ 1979 ] Tom
[ 1979 ] Tom
TV Shows
Fantasy Island
Gaylord Nelson, Spencer Randolph
Gaylord Nelson, Spencer Randolph
Little House on the Prairie
Toby Noe
Toby Noe
The Love Boat
Andy Hopkins, Horace McDonald
Andy Hopkins, Horace McDonald
The Partridge Family
Grandpa Fred Renfrew
Grandpa Fred Renfrew
Awards and Nominations
Tony Awards - 1962 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical
Ray Bolger, All American
winner
Tony Awards - 1949 - Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical
Ray Bolger, Where's Charley?
Videos
Video: BROADWAY BARBARA Meets the Press; Performances Begin Tonight
by Blair Ingenthron - 2023-04-09 10:38:00
VIDEO: Watch THE WIZARD OF OZ Re-Imagined as a Michael Bay Movie!
by Caryn Robbins - 2016-02-08 10:26:22
TV Exclusive: Sneak Peek of Karen Ziemba, Christine Baranski and More in Encores! ON YOUR TOES!
by Nicole Rosky - 2013-05-08 17:39:49
TV EXCLUSIVE: Chatting with the Cast of Encores! ON YOUR TOES - Kelli Barrett, Walter Bobbie, Performance Preview & More!
by BroadwayWorld TV - 2013-05-01 07:00:53
STAGE TUBE: President Obama Talks About Mel Brooks' Kennedy Center Honor
by Robert Diamond - 2009-12-07 09:27:17
News
Carol Burnett Launches Scholarship at UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 10, 2025
Carol Burnett has funded a scholarship at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. The scholarship will support undergraduate students in the school’s Ray Bolger Musical Theater Program.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Nov 10, 2025
Carol Burnett has funded a scholarship at the UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television. The scholarship will support undergraduate students in the school’s Ray Bolger Musical Theater Program.
Wake Up With BroadwayWorld October 27, 2025- LITTLE BEAR RIDGE ROAD First Look and More
by - Oct 27, 2025
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is October 27, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed over the weekend.
by - Oct 27, 2025
Rise and shine, BroadwayWorld! It is October 27, 2025 and it's time to catch up on all of the theatrical happenings you may have missed over the weekend.
Ray Bolger’s 1949 Tony Award for WHERE'S CHARLEY? Up for Auction
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 24, 2025
Among the treasures in the Classic Entertainment section of the firm’s November Fine Autographs and Artifacts auction is a rare piece of theatrical history: the Tony Award presented to Ray Bolger for Where’s Charley? Learn more!
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Oct 24, 2025
Among the treasures in the Classic Entertainment section of the firm’s November Fine Autographs and Artifacts auction is a rare piece of theatrical history: the Tony Award presented to Ray Bolger for Where’s Charley? Learn more!
Review: Ease on Down the Road to see THE WIZ at Dr. Phillips Center For The Performing Arts
by Albert Gutierrez - Oct 2, 2025
The benefit of a stage production means it will always be malleable to change, always willing to look at how a story written in the past can still be relevant in the present, and remain timeless for the future. What follows in this new production of The Wiz is a recontextualization of our favorite characters. While the structure of the story is faithful to the Baum novel and MGM film, it comes with small, but noticeable details that reframe this familiar story not just as a fantastical quest, but as a bildungsroman and revenge tale at the same time.
by Albert Gutierrez - Oct 2, 2025
The benefit of a stage production means it will always be malleable to change, always willing to look at how a story written in the past can still be relevant in the present, and remain timeless for the future. What follows in this new production of The Wiz is a recontextualization of our favorite characters. While the structure of the story is faithful to the Baum novel and MGM film, it comes with small, but noticeable details that reframe this familiar story not just as a fantastical quest, but as a bildungsroman and revenge tale at the same time.
Review: CHARLEY'S AUNT at Kechi Playhouse
by John Dalton-White - Jul 14, 2025
When my college choral professor pulled out a song that the choir had sung frequently, he would call it “a sugar stick.” Sugar stick refers to something that has been repeated repeatedly and needs very little work to prepare. Charley’s Aunt is Kechi Playhouse owner/director Misty Maynard’s sugar stick.
by John Dalton-White - Jul 14, 2025
When my college choral professor pulled out a song that the choir had sung frequently, he would call it “a sugar stick.” Sugar stick refers to something that has been repeated repeatedly and needs very little work to prepare. Charley’s Aunt is Kechi Playhouse owner/director Misty Maynard’s sugar stick.
Review: THE WIZARD OF OZ at Alabama Shakespeare Festival
by Russell Warne - Jul 13, 2025
Does 'The Wizard of Oz' retain its magic in 2025 on the Alabama Shakespeare Festival stage? Find out by reading Russell Warne's review.
by Russell Warne - Jul 13, 2025
Does 'The Wizard of Oz' retain its magic in 2025 on the Alabama Shakespeare Festival stage? Find out by reading Russell Warne's review.
Broadway Composer Charles Strouse Passes Away at 96
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 15, 2025
Charles Strouse, 96, the celebrated and multi-award-winning American film, television, and Broadway musical composer, died at his home in New York City on May 15.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - May 15, 2025
Charles Strouse, 96, the celebrated and multi-award-winning American film, television, and Broadway musical composer, died at his home in New York City on May 15.
Who Has Hosted the Tony Awards the Most?
by Sidney Paterra - May 3, 2025
On June 8, 2025, viewers will be able to tune in to watch Cynthia Erivo take the stage at Radio City Music Hall as a first-time host for the 78th annual ceremony. Do you know who has hosted the ceremony the most?
by Sidney Paterra - May 3, 2025
On June 8, 2025, viewers will be able to tune in to watch Cynthia Erivo take the stage at Radio City Music Hall as a first-time host for the 78th annual ceremony. Do you know who has hosted the ceremony the most?
Review: WAITRESS at Paramount Theatre Aurora, IL
by Tina St. Angelo Wetzel - Feb 23, 2025
The current production at the Paramount Theatre is the musical Waitress based upon the motion picture. When it opened, it was the first all-female production team on Broadway. Director and choreographer Katie Spelman gives the audience an evening of laughter, some tears and love. Sarah Bareilles’ music played by the Paramount Orchestra under the direction of Celia Villacres, fills the theater with the beauty of the different styles.
by Tina St. Angelo Wetzel - Feb 23, 2025
The current production at the Paramount Theatre is the musical Waitress based upon the motion picture. When it opened, it was the first all-female production team on Broadway. Director and choreographer Katie Spelman gives the audience an evening of laughter, some tears and love. Sarah Bareilles’ music played by the Paramount Orchestra under the direction of Celia Villacres, fills the theater with the beauty of the different styles.
Monthly Birthday Tribute: Take the Quiz!
by Rob Lester - Jan 1, 2025
Take BWW Cabaret's monthly quiz and see how much you know about music stars born in January. If your New Year's Resolution is to learn more about music, here's a fun way to do that for New Year's.
by Rob Lester - Jan 1, 2025
Take BWW Cabaret's monthly quiz and see how much you know about music stars born in January. If your New Year's Resolution is to learn more about music, here's a fun way to do that for New Year's.
Ali Fumiko Whitney to Speak at UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television's 2024 Orientation
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 23, 2024
Actress Ali Fumiko Whitney will be the guest speaker at UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television's 2024 Orientation, sharing her journey from musical theater to Netflix stardom and advocating for mixed-ethnicity actors.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Sep 23, 2024
Actress Ali Fumiko Whitney will be the guest speaker at UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television's 2024 Orientation, sharing her journey from musical theater to Netflix stardom and advocating for mixed-ethnicity actors.
Review: Santino Fontana's BY REQUEST at 54 Below Is Off-the-Walls Fun
by Rebecca Kaplan - Sep 13, 2024
Broadway's Santino Fontana (FROZEN, TOOTSIE) is supremely charming. Tonight and tomorrow, catch him in his craziest venture yet, BY REQUEST, where he performs setlists composed entirely from audience requests. Fontana wowed the audience with his singing, comedic chops and even some Shakespeare, plus special guest Lilli Cooper.
by Rebecca Kaplan - Sep 13, 2024
Broadway's Santino Fontana (FROZEN, TOOTSIE) is supremely charming. Tonight and tomorrow, catch him in his craziest venture yet, BY REQUEST, where he performs setlists composed entirely from audience requests. Fontana wowed the audience with his singing, comedic chops and even some Shakespeare, plus special guest Lilli Cooper.
DANCE ME TO THE END OF LOVE Comes to Theatre West This Month
by Stephi Wild - Apr 2, 2024
Victoria Lavan directed Theatre West's last two big musical shows, Winter Wishes and So Many Stars. Now it's her turn to take center stage and put her own magnificent voice on display.
by Stephi Wild - Apr 2, 2024
Victoria Lavan directed Theatre West's last two big musical shows, Winter Wishes and So Many Stars. Now it's her turn to take center stage and put her own magnificent voice on display.
Review: Synchronicity Takes Stellar Journey From 'MOUNTAIN' to 'MOON'
by Amanda Theriot-Greenwell - Feb 2, 2024
Grace Lin's novel for children 'Where the Mountain Meets the Moon' is woven through with puppetry, folklore, and drama, allowing audiences of all ages to follow young Minli's journey from home to the mystical Old Man of the Moon. Supported by a cast of entirely AAPI actors, this is a can't-miss show.
by Amanda Theriot-Greenwell - Feb 2, 2024
Grace Lin's novel for children 'Where the Mountain Meets the Moon' is woven through with puppetry, folklore, and drama, allowing audiences of all ages to follow young Minli's journey from home to the mystical Old Man of the Moon. Supported by a cast of entirely AAPI actors, this is a can't-miss show.
SO MANY STARS Comes to Theatre West in December
by Stephi Wild - Oct 31, 2023
'So Many Stars' is a musical event celebrating the joy of life itself. Directed by Victoria Lavan, this show features a talented cast and musicians, and will be performed at Theatre West in Los Angeles from December 2-10, 2023. Don't miss your chance to see and hear 'So Many Stars.'
by Stephi Wild - Oct 31, 2023
'So Many Stars' is a musical event celebrating the joy of life itself. Directed by Victoria Lavan, this show features a talented cast and musicians, and will be performed at Theatre West in Los Angeles from December 2-10, 2023. Don't miss your chance to see and hear 'So Many Stars.'
Ray Bolger's THE WIZARD OF OZ Memorabilia Set For Auction
by Michael Major - Oct 30, 2023
Lion Heart Autographs, among the world’s most respected and leading dealers in historical autographs and manuscripts hosts one of the most highly anticipated auctions this Wednesday beginning at 1:00 p.m. ET. Offering an extraordinary opportunity to own two important pieces of Hollywood history from MGM’s The Wizard of Oz.
by Michael Major - Oct 30, 2023
Lion Heart Autographs, among the world’s most respected and leading dealers in historical autographs and manuscripts hosts one of the most highly anticipated auctions this Wednesday beginning at 1:00 p.m. ET. Offering an extraordinary opportunity to own two important pieces of Hollywood history from MGM’s The Wizard of Oz.
Review: FOUR SHOWS Show the Variety Offered by the Venue That's 41 Years Old: Don't Tell Mama
by Rob Lester - Oct 30, 2023
Anita Gillette is hosted by Ricky Ritzel, Jason Henderson sparkles with Noel Coward songs, Therese Lee recalls encounters with Hollywood stars and her own dramas, and some kids and teens strut their stuff at Don't Tell Mama.
by Rob Lester - Oct 30, 2023
Anita Gillette is hosted by Ricky Ritzel, Jason Henderson sparkles with Noel Coward songs, Therese Lee recalls encounters with Hollywood stars and her own dramas, and some kids and teens strut their stuff at Don't Tell Mama.
Review: THE WIZARD OF OZ at Arizona Broadway Theatre
by Herbert Paine - Jun 26, 2023
Cassandra and Kiel Klaphake, the visionary forces behind Arizona Broadway Theatre, have delivered a winner with their refreshingly revisited production of THE WIZARD OF OZ, directed by Ken Urso and featuring Jasmine Bassham as Dorothy. Runs through July 11.
by Herbert Paine - Jun 26, 2023
Cassandra and Kiel Klaphake, the visionary forces behind Arizona Broadway Theatre, have delivered a winner with their refreshingly revisited production of THE WIZARD OF OZ, directed by Ken Urso and featuring Jasmine Bassham as Dorothy. Runs through July 11.
Video: BROADWAY BARBARA Meets the Press; Performances Begin Tonight
by Blair Ingenthron - Apr 9, 2023
Watch Broadway Barbara take a stroll through Shubert Alley and stop by Sardi's to speak about her show Broadway Barbara Live! at Soho Playhouse, beginning performances tonight!
by Blair Ingenthron - Apr 9, 2023
Watch Broadway Barbara take a stroll through Shubert Alley and stop by Sardi's to speak about her show Broadway Barbara Live! at Soho Playhouse, beginning performances tonight!
BROADWAY BARBARA LIVE! OFF-BROADWAY to Play Limited Engagement at SoHo Playhouse
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 9, 2023
Broadway Barbara LIVE! Off-Broadway will play a special five-show limited engagement at SoHo Playhouse (15 Vandam Street) on April 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17 at 7:00pm.
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Mar 9, 2023
Broadway Barbara LIVE! Off-Broadway will play a special five-show limited engagement at SoHo Playhouse (15 Vandam Street) on April 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17 at 7:00pm.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many Broadway shows has Ray Bolger been in?
Ray Bolger has appeared on Broadway in 13 shows.
How many West End shows has Ray Bolger been in?
Ray Bolger has not appeared in the West End
What awards has Ray Bolger been nominated for?
Ray Bolger has been nominated for the following awards: Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical (Tony Awards) for "All American" and "Where's Charley?".
What awards has Ray Bolger won?
Ray Bolger has won the Tony Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical for his performance in "Where's Charley?".
Videos