The Victoria Theater, a notable vaudeville house in New York, was opened by Oscar Hammerstein I in the late 19th century. Above it, the Paradise Roof Garden was built, and together they became known as Hammerstein’s. From 1904 to 1914, Oscar's son Willie Hammerstein ran the venue, showcasing popular acts like the notorious Sober Sue. ⁠ ⁠ In the summer of 1907, Sober Sue, dubbed “the girl who never laughed,” performed at Paradise Roof Garden. The theater offered a $1,000 prize (about $33,560 today) to anyone who could make her smile. Audience members and famous comedians tried but failed to amuse her, which only served to heighten her popularity.⁠ ⁠ Rumors circulated about Sober Sue's lack of emotion, with some suggesting she was partially blind or deaf. However, it was revealed that her facial muscles were paralyzed. The scheme was orchestrated by Willie Hammerstein, who paid Sober Sue $20 a week while profiting from top comedians performing for free. Once the truth came out, Willie fa...