Description :

Classic Theater Elegance: 4 Iconic Playbills from Stage & Sea

Up for bid is a rare and evocative quartet of vintage theatrical Playbills, each a time capsule of stage artistry and cultural flair. This curated set honors the brilliance of Broadway and beyond, spotlighting four distinct productions and the creative forces behind them.

The first gem, Carnival! (Imperial Theatre, 1961), celebrates the whimsical magic of Bob Merrill’s music and lyrics and Michael Stewart’s book, based on Helen Deutsch’s material and Paul Gallico’s story. Directed and choreographed by the legendary Gower Champion, the production starred Anna Maria Alberghetti as Lili, Jerry Orbach as Paul Berthalet, James Mitchell as Marco the Magnificent, Kaye Ballard as Rosalie, and Pierre Olaf as Jacquot. Produced by David Merrick, with orchestrations by Philip J. Lang and puppetry by Tom Tichenor, this Playbill captures the gentle charm of a show that won hearts and Tony Awards.

Next, the Pickwick Playbill (Curran Theatre, San Francisco Civic Light Opera, 1965) showcases the musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ The Pickwick Papers, with music by Cyril Ornadel, lyrics by Leslie Bricusse, and a book by Wolf Mankowitz. Directed by Peter Coe and choreographed by Gillian Lynne, the cast featured Harry Secombe as Pickwick, Roy Castle as Sam Weller, Charlotte Rae as Mrs. Bardell, and Anton Rodgers as Mr. Jingle. Produced by Bernard Delfont and David Merrick, this production brought Victorian England to life with wit, warmth, and the iconic ballad “If I Ruled the World”.

The third booklet, Sea Legs '84, is a dazzling artifact from the S.S. Norway’s Saga Theatre. Produced by Jean Ann Ryan Productions, this revue-style show featured a vibrant ensemble of dancers and performers including Dena Drotar, Darryl Darrin, Donalin Bobyck, Tamara Delane Schrader, and Neva Rae. With choreography and direction tailored for the high seas, this Playbill reflects the glamour of cruise ship entertainment in the 1980s, complete with bios of the production staff and a nod to ship architect Tage Wandborg for the theatre’s renovation.

Then the fourth booklet, Chapter Two (Curran Theatre) offers a poignant glimpse into Neil Simon’s semi-autobiographical play about love, loss, and second chances. While specific cast details from this Curran Theatre production remain elusive, the original play—first staged in 1977—has featured powerhouse performances by actors such as Judd Hirsch and Anita Gillette. The Playbill’s race car illustration adds a unique visual twist to this emotionally resonant comedy-drama.

Finally, step into the golden glow of Harlem’s jazz age with this rare featuring the August 1979 Playbill from the Curran Theatre’s production of Ain’t Misbehavin’. This historic revue, a tribute to the genius of Fats Waller, was brought to life by a dazzling cast including Teresa Bowers, Yvette Freeman, Ben Harney, and Adriane Lenox, each of whom infused the stage with rhythm, wit, and soul. Conceived and directed by Richard Maltby Jr., with musical staging by Arthur Faria, the production was a masterclass in theatrical storytelling. The creative brilliance extended to Luther Henderson (orchestrations and musical direction), William Elliott and Jeffrey Gutcheon (vocal arrangements), and Randy Barceló (costume design), whose work captured the vibrant spirit of 1930s Harlem. Producers Emanuel Azenberg, Dasha Epstein, Jane Gaynor, Ron Dante, and the Shubert Organization ensured the show’s enduring legacy, while the original concept by Murray Horwitz helped shape its cultural resonance. This Playbill also honors the legacy of Nell Carter, André De Shields, Armelia McQueen, Ken Page, and Charlayne Woodard, whose performances in earlier productions earned critical acclaim and prestigious awards. A collector’s gem, this set celebrates not just a show, but a movement—a jubilant, toe-tapping, history-making celebration of Black artistry and American musical heritage.

This auction set is a tribute to theatrical excellence, spanning Broadway classics, literary adaptations, cruise ship revues, and heartfelt plays. A must-have for collectors, historians, and lovers of the stage.

Measurements:

Carnival! (Imperial Theatre, 1961):

Length: 9 Inches;

Width: 6 Inches;

Pickwick Playbill (1965):

Length: 9 Inches;

Width: 6 Inches;

Sea Legs '84 (1980s):

Length: 9 Inches;

Width: 6 Inches;

Chapter Two (Curran Theatre):

Length: 9 Inches;

Width: 6 Inches;

Ain’t Misbehavin’ (Curran Theatre August 1979):

Length: 9 Inches;

Width: 6 Inches;

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