While HOUDINI is almost entirely a work of fiction, it does capture the glamor, drama, and danger of Harry Houdini in a way that I think would have made the Master Mystifier proud. It's amazing just how many magic and Houdini buffs, including myself, cite this one film as the reason they became interested in the subject. This lead another magician, Leon Mandrake, to procure some of the posters and recreate Alexander’s shows in the 1950's to make use of the supply and to build upon Alexander’s already established notoriety.Unquestionably the most famous Houdini biopic is Paramount's 1953 HOUDINI starring Tony Curtis and Janet Leigh. He kept the unused posters in storage until he eventually sold them, along with the rest of his stage equipment and props, to magic dealer Robert Nelson in 1944. It is thought that he earned millions from his performances and merchandising.Īlexander was known for investing a great deal of money into the production of the stage posters such as this three panel, full color print. He is best remembered for his performances as a seer who could discern unspoken questions from audience members and give answers and predictions in response to them. Since, much has surfaced about his stints as a conman, jailbreaks and myriad courtroom appearances. Perhaps the most successful theatrical mind reader of his time, Alexander, (American- born Claude Alexander Colin 1880-1954) kept much of his trade secrets and personal life shrouded in mystery until after his death. Her final performance was in Colon, Michigan in 1962, but even though retired, still continued to practice magic daily, dying Jat age 90. In August 1959, she married Michigan magician Zina Bennett and returned with him to Detroit. She spoke five languages, enabling her to perform all over Europe. Her elegant performances incorporated ropes, thimbles, cigarettes, canes, silks, coins, the Miser’s Dream, card fans, and eight linking rings. In 1936, Suzy became a solo act known as the "Lady with the Fairy Fingers – a master manipulator". After her father’s death in 1912, she along with her brother and mother were known as The Wandas Trio, and later with her mother were billed as The Wandas Sisters. She also learned to perform magic, primarily coin and card manipulations, and by 1910 was performing it as part of the family show. Suzy Wandas Bennett (1896-1986) was born Jeanne Van Dyk in Brussels, Belgium to a theatrical family, performing at age eight as Miss White Flower the dancing violinist. Miner for several other posters during his career so it can be safely assumed this particular lithograph was for the short run Leon did as Herrmann the Great. Miner Lithography wasn’t founded until 1896, which was tragically the same year Alexander Herrmann passed away. Since Leon performed under his uncle’s name it is sometimes difficult to determine whether a poster references a performance done by the elder or younger Herrmann. They continued to travel together for three seasons but, due to personal differences, parted ways shortly after. The initial launch began as Leon performed with Alexander’s widow, Adelaide. Prior to taking the main stage, Leon had worked with Alexander and the eldest Herrmann, Carl, in various shows, and his striking resemblance to his uncles made it easy for him to continue their role. After the death of Alexander Herrmann, his nephew Leon Herrmann (American 1867-1909) took upon the mantle of Herrmann the Great.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |