Donna Norris

Donna Norris, who rose to prominence in films -most of which she co-starred with her twin sister Diana- like Kismet (1955) and Louisa (1950) has died at the age of 92 according to her daughter Elaine Martin. Born to James and Nina Norris, Donna was raised in Sierra Madre, California. She loved music and softball. Donna and Diana Norris were a great duo. They could act, sing, and dance. They played several instruments as well including the saxophone and the harp. Their careers began in September 1950 when they won the Huntington Beach Twin Convention. Donna was then cast in A Woman of Distinction (1950), A Life of Her Own (1950), and Grounds For Marriage in walk-on roles. The following year, the twins were crowned Queens of the Camellia Show. As she gained experience, she began venturing on a career of her own but remained close with her twin sister and several other siblings who were also musicians. In March 1953, they joined a USO troupe. They performed in Alaska for the soldiers serving in the Korean War. They then appeared at the California Spring Flower and Garden Show to present awards. After marrying William Stevenson whom she met while performing at Monrovia -Duarte Evening High School, she retired to raise a family. She continued to study dance, and remained very close with her twin sister.