Danny Kaye: A Showman's Life

Lot #47:

Dominick Dunne, Bob Crane and Others Collection of (4) Contracts and Letters to the Kayes.

Danny Kaye, 1950s-1960s, Danny Kaye. Vintage collection of (4) documents, including 1-Dominick Dunne handwritten letter on 8.5 x 6.5 in. personal stationery, dated July 19, reads in part, “I am most appreciative to have been included. To top it all off, I met my most favorite singer, Miss Petula Clark. Isn't she wonderful? And so were your toasts – witty, brief, and altogether right." It is signed, “Warmest, best, and love, Nick." 1-David Susskind undated handwritten letter on 10.5 x 7 in. Desert Inn letterhead, which reads: “Dear Danny: I can't leave without telling you again what a superb artist you are. Last night's show will live long in my memory. Thank you." It is signed, “David Susskind." 1-William Morris Agency standard theatrical 8.5 x 11 in. contract dated February 11, 1957 for an agreement between Danny Kaye's company Dena Pictures and Senor Wences at the Colonial Theater of Boston, which reads in part, “Artist shall receive billing in 75% of the size type afforded Danny Kaye in all newspaper advertisements, lights, displays and programs." It is signed, “Senor Wences." 1-onionskin contract rider as well as 1-typed internal yellow note dated 2/14/1957 confirming receipt of contract are affixed with staples. Also including 1-Bob Crane typed 8.25 x 11 in. letter to Danny Kaye's company Dena Pictures dated November 3, 1965 authorizing payment to be sent to his representatives at the William Morris Agency. It reads, in part, “This authorization shall remain in effect until written notice of revocation thereof, executed and acknowledged by me, shall be served upon you by registered mail." It goes on to detail formalities of the agreement and is signed, “Bob Crane." Crane was an American actor best known for his role in the TV series Hogan's Heroes, whose mysterious death in 1978 led to widespread intrigue, making him the subject of the 2002 biopic Auto Focus. Exhibiting expected age, handling, with the Bob Crane contract with hole-punch perforations at the top center. In vintage good to very good condition. From the personal collection of Danny and Sylvia Fine Kaye.