1. Sarah Bernhardt (1844-1923): Sarah Bernhardt was a legendary French actress, regarded as one of the greatest actresses of all time. Known as "The Divine Sarah," she was famous for her powerful and emotive performances in classical plays such as "Phèdre," "La Dame aux Camélias," and "Hamlet."
2. Katharine Hepburn (1907-2003): Katharine Hepburn was an iconic American actress who starred in both films and plays. She excelled in both dramatic and comedic roles, and won four Academy Awards for her work in movies. Hepburn also had a successful stage career, performing in productions like "The Philadelphia Story" and "A Matter of Gravity."
3. Vivien Leigh (1913-1967): Vivien Leigh was a British actress known for her portrayal of iconic characters such as Scarlett O'Hara in "Gone with the Wind" and Blanche DuBois in "A Streetcar Named Desire." Leigh was celebrated for her stage work as well, particularly her performances in "The Doctor's Dilemma" and "Antony and Cleopatra."
4. Helen Mirren (1945-Present): Dame Helen Mirren is an acclaimed English actress who has enjoyed a distinguished career in theater, film, and television. She has won multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and Tony Awards for her exceptional performances. Mirren's stage credits include acclaimed productions such as "Antony and Cleopatra," "The Audience," and "The Tempest."
5. Meryl Streep (1949-Present): Meryl Streep is an American actress considered one of the greatest actresses of her generation. She has received numerous accolades for her versatile and powerful performances in both films and plays. Streep has starred in stage productions such as "A Little Night Music," "The Seagull," and "Mother Courage and Her Children."
6. Judi Dench (1934-Present): Dame Judi Dench is an esteemed English actress with an illustrious career in theater, film, and television. She has won multiple Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and Tony Awards for her remarkable performances. Dench is renowned for her stage work, including celebrated performances in "Twelfth Night," "Hamlet," and "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
7. Vanessa Redgrave (1937-Present): Vanessa Redgrave is an English actress who has achieved international acclaim for her stage and screen performances. She has won multiple Academy Award nominations and won a Tony Award for her stage work. Redgrave is particularly known for her performances in plays such as "The Seagull," "A Touch of the Poet," and "Long Day's Journey into Night."
These actresses, among many others, have left a profound impact on the world of theater, delivering unforgettable performances that have captivated audiences and enriched the art of stage acting.