Annie Oakley PORTRAYED BY
Annie Oakley, born Phoebe Ann Mosey, was probably the most famous woman of her day. With photographs and posters everywhere, she and professional partner Buffalo Bill Cody may have been the first international superstars. The diminutive sharpshooter and exhibition shooter competed in a sport and in a world dominated by men.
Growing up poor she overcame a very difficult childhood, she learned to shoot from practical necessity, hunting to feed her parents and siblings. Achieving fame as a Lady Sharpshooter, she also fought for safe working conditions, fair and equal pay for a days work regardless of gender or heritage, and for a first-rate show that presented good solid family entertainment. International fame and success came with a price. Later in life she had to fight to maintain the honor of her name. She steadfastly supported the country in times of war, and put many young girls through school at her own expense. Believing that women were just as capable as men, she firmly insisted that they should strive to achieve any goal or occupation that interested them. Her motto was to “Aim for a high mark…for practice will make you perfect.” Her hope was that all women would reach the “Bulls-eye of Success.”
Ms. Hanley’s Annie Oakley is a persevering dynamo whose spirit is contagious.
Kim Hanley: Bio Actor/Historian, Interpreter, Reenactor, Impersonator