Vivian Van Damm, born on June 28, 1889 in London, England, was a prominent theater producer known for his management of the iconic Windmill Theatre. His innovative approach to showcasing tableaux vivant depicting motionless nude women with a legal loophole made him a controversial figure in the entertainment world. Despite facing challenges and criticisms, Van Damm's knack for publicity and showmanship propelled the Windmill Theatre to fame, earning it the moniker of "the theatre that never closed."
Before making a name for himself in the theater industry, Van Damm started his career at a young age. He dropped out of school at 14 to work as a mechanic during the early days of automobiles. His passion for entertainment led him to transition from a mechanic to managing West End Cinemas. In 1931, Van Damm caught the attention of Laura Henderson, the owner of the Windmill Theatre, who hired him to bring success to the struggling venue.
Van Damm's contributions to the entertainment scene extended beyond managing the Windmill Theatre. He was a Vice President of the Magicians' Club in London and actively participated in hosting charity events at the theater. His dedication to promoting the arts and supporting charitable causes showcased his commitment to giving back to the community.
Family played a significant role in Van Damm's life. He was the son of George and Jeannette Van Damm, and had two daughters, Betti and Sheila. Sheila, following in her father's footsteps, became a rally driver and eventually inherited the Windmill Theatre upon Van Damm's passing.
Van Damm's legacy continues to be remembered in popular culture. In the 2005 film "Mrs. Henderson Presents," he was portrayed by acclaimed actor Bob Hoskins, bringing his remarkable story to a wider audience. Additionally, snippets of his life were depicted in the film "Tonight and Every Night," starring the iconic Rita Hayworth.
Vivian Van Damm's impact on the theater industry and his dedication to promoting the arts have left a lasting impression on the entertainment world. His visionary approach to showcasing performances and his relentless pursuit of success have solidified his place as a legend in the history of theater production.