1884 ca, New York, USA: The celebrated american, born english, theatre actress MARY ANDERSON (1859 - 1940). Photo by Sarony, New York. She then worked the New York and touring company stages for twelve years until she spent the next six years on the English stage (appearing in a lot of Shakespeare productions). She then returned to the United States, and at age 30, collapsed on stage with a case of nervous exhaustion. This experience, likely coupled with less than favorable reviews, caused her to retire from acting.