Joseph Wagstaff (1903–2001) was an American actor, musician, singer, and dancer.
Early life and career His father, Spencer George Wagstaff came from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. He went to Detroit to work as an agent for the Grand Trunk Canadian National Railway. His father died in 1925 and his obituary lists him as leaving a widow and three sons, Earl, Sumner and Joseph. The obituary lists Joseph as a musical comedy actor.New York Times newspaper, pg.26. Article called "John S. Sargent Buried." Wagstaff's father's obituary was in the same article.
In the 1930 U.S. Census Joseph Wagstaff was listed as a silent and sound film actor.1930 U.S. census.
Broadway The Passing Show of 1923 – The play ran from until at the Winter Garden Theater in New York.Internet Broadway Database Billie – The play ran in New York from until . It was written, directed and produced by George M. Cohan. Wagstaff played the part of Jackson Jones.New York Times newspaper, pg.34. Article called "Cohans Musical Billies is Spirited". Black Diamond – The play opened in New York on .Internet Broadway Database Fine and Dandy – The musical opened on at Erlanger's Theatre in New York. Wagstaff played the part of George Ellis.New York Times newspaper, pg.26. Article called "The Play".
Movies A Song of Kentucky – 1929 Joe played the part of Jerry Reavis and performed the songs "A Night Of Happiness","Sitting By The Window","Rhapsody" and "Don't Blame Me". Other actors in this film were Hedda Hopper, Dorothy Burgess, Herman Bing and Bert Woodruff. There was a sound track (record) available for this film.
Let's Go Places (1930), the working title of this was "Hollywood Nights", the name was changed along the way. This is said to be a lost film and I do not know if any copies are still in existence. The New York Times newspaper described this as being a singing talking film. Other actors in this film were Betty Grable, Lola Lane, Frank Richardson and Walter Catlett.New York Times newspaper, , pg.121. Article called "Notes from the Studios and Theaters".
Musical performances Wagstaff performed with the following orchestras and performers: Meyer Davis Orchestra Paul Whiteman Orchestra J.W. Sutton Club Orchestra Lillian Roth Beatrice Lillie Medrano and Donna There is a reference to Joe Wagstaff and Film Land but the sources are unclear.New York Times newspaper. , pg.17 advertisement. , pg.131 "The Microphone will present." , pg. 20 "New Supper Club to open."
Later life Joe was performing in the Detroit and Harbor Springs areas of Michigan until well into the 1990s in the summer months.
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