Born Finis Barton January 8, 1911 in Perth but raised in Sydney, Australia where she studied ballet, tap, and acting. Became a local radio star at age 14. Entered the U.S. via Canada in 1927 and was promptly hired by RKO Pictures as a "pony" (chorus girl) dancer in musicals. From 1930 to 1939 played various roles in "B" movie productions, with the...