This American theatrical producer is famed for his extravagant revues produced annually from 1907 to 1931. A film biography of his life won the 1936 Academy Award as Best Picture. Who was he?

The iconic figure behind some of Broadway's most dazzling and opulent spectacles from the early 20th century was Florenz Ziegfeld. This visionary impresario captivated audiences with his legendary Ziegfeld Follies, a series of annual musical revues produced from 1907 to 1931. These productions were renowned for their elaborate sets, spectacular costumes, and the stunning beauty of their showgirls, famously known as the Ziegfeld Girls, who became a benchmark for glamour.

More than just a collection of beautiful faces, the Follies were a veritable who's who of talent, featuring comedic legends like Fanny Brice, Will Rogers, and W.C. Fields, alongside groundbreaking musical numbers and dance. Ziegfeld had an uncanny eye for talent and an unparalleled ability to create a glamorous, dreamlike world on stage, blending sophisticated humor with breathtaking visual artistry. His productions became synonymous with the golden age of American entertainment, pushing the boundaries of theatrical spectacle.

Ziegfeld's larger-than-life persona and career were immortalized in the 1936 film The Great Ziegfeld. This lavish biographical drama, starring William Powell as Ziegfeld, swept the Academy Awards, including the coveted Best Picture award. The film brilliantly captured the grandeur and ambition of his productions, ensuring that the magic of the Ziegfeld Follies continued to enchant audiences and cementing his legacy as one of the most influential producers in American theatrical history.