Neilson-Terry, Phyllis (1892–1977)
Neilson-Terry, Phyllis (1892–1977)
English actress. Name variations: Phyllis Terson. Born in London, England, Oct 15, 1892; died Sept 25, 1977, in London; dau. of Fred Terry (actor-manager) and Julia Neilson (1868–1957, actress); niece of Ellen Terry (1847–1928); aunt of Hazel Terry (actress); educated at Westgate-on-Seas, Paris, and Royal Academy of Music; m. Cecil King (died); m. Heron Carvic.
Made debut at Opera House, Blackpool, as Marie de Belleforet in Henry of Navarre (1909), under stage name Phyllis Terson; made London debut in same part (1910); played Viola in Twelfth Night at His Majesty's Theater, while father played Sebastian; went on to play many of Shakespeare's women, including Juliet, Lady Macbeth, Desdemona, Rosalind, Katherine and Portia; made 1st New York appearance, as Viola (1914); after she played the title role in Trilby, went on tour in US and Canada, returning to England (1919), following the war; took up management of Apollo Theater (1922) and continued to act; over the years, was seen in numerous plays, including Bella Donna, Craig's Wife, Sweet Nell of Old Drury, and Candida; also portrayed Elizabeth in Elizabeth of England and appeared in Separate Tables; films include Doctor in the House, Look Back in Anger and Conspiracy of Hearts.
See also Women in World History.