Description :

Legends Onstage: Fonteyn–Nureyev, Barnum, Liszt & California Arts

Up for auction is a unique collection of vintage performing arts memorabilia, spotlighting three historically significant items that capture the magic and artistry of live performance in the 20th century. First is the January 1982 issue of Performing Arts, California’s premier theatre and music magazine, renowned for its in-depth coverage of the region’s vibrant entertainment scene. This particular issue features a striking cover story on the Golden Gate Theatre’s production of Barnum, illustrated with a stylized image of a performer in a top hat that embodies the dynamic energy of live theater. The issue includes richly curated articles and features, such as William E. Fark’s detailed review of San Diego Old Globe’s A Year of Celebration, an insightful fashion piece by Eileen Olsen, and Susan LaTempa’s report on women in American theater. There’s also a compelling ad for a portable Yamaha keyboard, priced from $149, marketed as a versatile instrument for both children and adults. A professional directory lists industry figures including Lizanne Leyburn (Associate Publisher), Herbert Glass (Editor-in-Chief), Florence Quarataro (Advertising Manager), and advertising contacts across major U.S. cities. Though cast members from Barnum aren’t specified, the magazine’s focus on California’s performing arts scene and its era-specific ads offer an authentic glimpse into early 1980s theater culture, making this issue an ideal collectible for enthusiasts and vintage magazine collectors.

The second piece is a rare 1964 San Francisco Ballet program, highlighting the legendary partnership between Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev. Performed at the War Memorial Opera House, this program captures one of ballet's most iconic collaborations through a beautiful black-and-white cover illustration of the two dancers in a graceful pose. Detailing performances held on January 14, 16, 18 at 8:30 p.m. and January 19 at 2:30 p.m., it reflects the elegance and prestige of that ballet season. Inside, the booklet lists key figures within the San Francisco Ballet Guild, including President Mr. James J. Ludwig, Vice Presidents Mrs. John R. Upton and Mrs. Frederick J. Hellman, and Treasurer Mr. Louis F. Weyand. Prominent directors such as Mrs. William Bayless, Mrs. James Boder, Mr. Lew Christensen, and Mr. Wm. Creighton Peet Jr. are featured, along with auxiliary officers like Mrs. William W. Budge, Mrs. John Renshaw, and Mrs. W. Abbott Robertson Jr. A charming ad for “Irish Coffee” from the Buena Vista adds a touch of vintage San Francisco flair. This program is a treasure for ballet lovers and memorabilia collectors, celebrating the transcendent artistry of Fonteyn and Nureyev with full cast and production credits.

Completing the trio is a fascinating 1950s theater playbill for the film Song Without End, a biographical drama centered on the life of composer Franz Liszt. Featuring a preserved black-and-white cover image of the film’s stars, the program includes a full cast listing: Dirk Bogarde as Liszt, Genevieve Page as Countess Marie d’Agoult, Patricia Morison as George Sand, Ivan Desny as Prince Nicholas, and Martita Hunt as the Grand Duchess. Supporting actors include Lou Jacobi, Marcel Dalio, Lyndon Brook, Walter Rilla, Hans Unterkirchner, E. Erlandsen, Alex Davion, and Katherine Squire. The playbill credits George Cukor as director—known for My Fair Lady and The Philadelphia Story—with production by - William Goetz and screenplay by Oscar Millard. Also featured are nostalgic ads for local dining spots, such as Tiki Bob's Restaurant and El Prado at the Clift Hotel, showcasing Polynesian dinners and fine cuisine that evoke the cultural backdrop of the era. Though some details differ from official film credits, this playbill still provides an enchanting window into mid-century Hollywood and its theatrical promotions, ideal for film historians and collectors alike.

Measurements:

Performance Arts Barnum:

Length: 8 ½ Inches;

Width: 5 ½ Inches;

Margot Fonteyn and Rudolf Nureyev:

Length: 8 ¾ Inches;

Width: 6 Inches;

Song Without End:

Length: 9 Inches;

Width: 6 Inches;

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