Background
Allen was born in Brooklyn, New York to Julia (née Riccio) and Joseph Abruzzo.
Allen was born in Brooklyn, New York to Julia (née Riccio) and Joseph Abruzzo.
She had two prior Tony nominations, including one for Best Featured Actress in Damn Yankees in 1955 and for the same category in Traveller Without Luggage in 1967. She appeared in the original Broadway production of Damn Yankees as the nosy reporter Gloria and recreated the role in the film adaptation, in both of which she introduced the song, "Shoeless Joe from Hannibal, Missouri" She also made appearances on television shows such as The Patty Duke Show,,,,, and, among others Dude Damn Yankees Oliver! The Pajama Game Fiddler on the Roof On a Clear Day You Can See Forever.