Vola Vale
Actress
About Vola Vale
Vola Vale: Buffalo’s Star Who Shone Bright in Silence
Born on February 12, 1897, in Buffalo, NY, Vola Vale, originally named Vola Smith, was one of the early pioneers of Hollywood’s silent film era. Her story is one of transformation, from a young girl in Western New York to a celebrated actress who graced the screens during the height of silent cinema.
A Bright Beginning in Buffalo
Vola spent her early years in Buffalo, a city rich with history and vibrancy that undoubtedly influenced her artistic spirit. She later moved to Rochester, where she grew up and attended high school, immersing herself in amateur theatre productions. It was here she began honing her craft, captivating audiences with her emotional expressiveness and stage presence.
Her talent didn’t go unnoticed. At the age of 15, Vola began her film career, initially appearing under her given name. By 1916, recognizing the importance of a distinctive screen identity, she adopted the name Vola Vale. It was a name that would soon be featured in theaters all around the country.
The Rise of a Silent Star
Vola’s big break came after catching the attention of D.W. Griffith, the legendary director and filmmaker who was renowned for discovering and nurturing young talent. Signing with Biograph Studios, Vola quickly proved her versatility, showcasing a talent for both comedy and drama. She worked alongside notable actors such as William S. Hart, Sessue Hayakawa, and Tully Marshall, earning her reputation as one of the era’s most talented performers.
Her ability to portray a variety of characters—from aristocratic ladies to spirited heroines—set her apart. Vola’s beauty and poise made her an excellent choice for glamorous roles, while her emotional depth allowed her to embody more complex, nuanced characters.
Her work extended beyond Biograph as she collaborated with major studios like Universal Pictures, Fox Film, Famous Players–Lasky, and Paramount Pictures. Each project expanded her footprint in the industry, solidifying her status as one of the leading ladies of the silent era.
Memorable Roles and Achievements
Vola’s filmography spans a wide array of genres, but her most notable works include Each to His Kind (1917), The Silent Man (1917), and Alias Jimmy Valentine (1920). She frequently starred alongside Western icons like William S. Hart, drawing audiences with her ability to balance grit and grace.
Her role in The Silent Man as Betty Bryce showcased her ability to bring warmth and dimension to her characters. Meanwhile, her work in Six Feet Four (1919), a Western adventure, further underscored her dynamic presence on screen.
Vola’s talent extended beyond acting. She was often celebrated for her observation skills, an ability she used to internalize the complexities of life and later channel them into authentic performances that resonated with viewers.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
Vola’s transition from silent films to “talkies” marked a turning point in her career. By the mid-1920s, like many silent film stars, she began to step out of the limelight as the film industry shifted. However, her impact on cinema remained undeniable.
Off the screen, Vola led a fascinating personal life. She married three times, first tying the knot with film director and producer Albert Russell in 1918. Following their divorce, she married director John W. Gorman in 1926, and finally Lawrence McDougal in 1932. She remained with McDougal until his passing in 1970.
Beyond acting, Vola was part of “Our Club,” a Hollywood group of rising stars that included names like Mary Pickford and Colleen Moore. This collective of actresses helped foster a sense of collaboration among the leading women of the silver screen.
Vola Vale passed away on October 17, 1970, in Hawthorne, California, leaving behind a legacy of artistic excellence and determination.
A Lasting Legacy
Though many silent films are now lost to time, the memory of Vola Vale’s contributions endures among cinephiles and historians. Her portrayals helped shape early Hollywood’s depiction of empowered, nuanced female characters.
Vola Vale’s rise to fame from her beginnings in Buffalo serves as a reminder of the potential for art to transcend boundaries. She not only represented the glamour of silent cinema but also the grit and dedication it took to succeed during its golden age.
For fans of classic cinema, Vola’s story is both inspiring and timeless—a tale of a young woman from Buffalo who conquered the silent silver screen and left an undeniable mark on film history. Her legacy remains a beacon for all those who dream of telling unforgettable stories.