Began his career with the Hedgerow Repertory Theater near Philadelphia, where he apprenticed for four years before moving to New York City in 1930 and joining the Group Theater.
During World War II he toured the front lines as a stage manager and actor in the U.S.O. show "Over 21," which starred Vivian Vance and her then-husband Philip Ober.
Enjoyed a long and prolific career on Broadway. Harry worked there from 1931-72 appearing in over 20 major productions including the hit original original 1946 cast production of "Annie Get Your Gun" (as Chief Sitting Bull) that ran for 1147 performances.
Father of theatrical casting director Vaughn Bellaver.
Harry Bellaver was the son of Italian immigrant laborers working in the coal mining camps of Hillsboro, Illinois.
Has two daughters, Lee and Vaughan.
Helped found the Actors' Equity Association.
Quit school in the sixth grade and worked as a teamster, a farmhand and a coal miner before winning a scholarship to Brookwood Labor College in Katonah, New York, where he acted in school productions.