Danny Kaye: A Showman's Life

Lot #11:

Ethel Merman Signed Note and (3) Danny Kaye Theater Programs.

Danny Kaye, 1940s-1970s, Danny Kaye. Vintage collection of (4) theater related items including 1-sepia tone cover 44-page “The Playbill for the Imperial Theater" (1942) featuring Danny Kaye on the cover, 1-multicolor cover “Ziegfeld Theater / Playbill" (1961) also featuring Danny Kaye on the cover, 1-multicolor 70-page “Ahmanson Theater / Performing Arts" (1978) featuring an article about Sylvia Fine with some handwritten notations in blue ink, and 1-handwritten note from Ethel Merman on Beverly Hills Hotel and Bungalows stationery, dated Jan. 24/79, which reads: “Dear Sylvia- You say, ‘take a fruit'! Holy cow! You send me an orchard! Thanks + love - Ethel." The pair appeared together in the 1979 TV special, Musical Comedy Tonight. Created, hosted, and written by Sylvia Fine Kaye, the show explored the evolution of American musical comedy through lavish production numbers from Broadway hits. The special featured performances from stars like Carol Burnett, Richard Chamberlain, John Davidson, Sandy Duncan, Rock Hudson, Bernadette Peters, Bobby Van, and notably Ethel Merman. Merman, known for her iconic performance in Anything Goes (1934), is highlighted in a segment showcasing Cole Porter's music. Measuring from 3.5 x 5.5 in. to 8.25 x 10.75 in. Exhibiting age, wear and handling with bumped corners, edgewear and creasing. In vintage good to very good condition. From the personal collection of Danny and Sylvia Fine Kaye.