June Preston's Classical Singing Career Began At Only 16 Years Old

Publish date: 2024-05-03

Another important period in June Preston's career was when she joined the Meglin Kiddies, a troupe of young Hollywood singers and dancers in which Preston honed her skills prior to the age of 16. The wildly popular Shirley Temple (pictured) — with whom Preston was considered a rival —  was also a Meglin Kiddie, as were other young stars from that period like Judy Garland and Andy Rooney (via IMDb). During this time, Preston earned roles in such films as "Our Gang Follies" in 1938, and she also sang, danced, and performed at Wadsworth Theatre in Los Angeles (via The Hollywood Reporter). 

Child stars who find success early on in their life, such as June Preston did, sometimes struggle to find work as they grow older, as Hollywood notes. Preston was born and raised near Seattle, Washington, where she returned after her career in Hollywood. Another major force in classical music, German conductor Gustave Stern, who died in 1990 at the age of 89, also lived in Seattle at that time (via Seattle Times). Through Stern, Preston earned her second act.

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