This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/26/2023
[CONTRACTS] Archive of British Magicians’ Music Hall Contracts. Over 50 printed contracts, dating from the 1910s – 50s, most issued for variety theatres in Bolton, and completed and SIGNED by a host of magicians of the time, including Claude Lester, James Crossini the Escape Artist, Reggie Dennis, The Great Desmo, Bert Irving, Rolph Hanson, The Great Weiland, Ralph Chart, Yoga, “Celeste,” Giordano the Italian Illusionist, Cingalee, Pharos, Takase, Deveen, Ching Wu, Fred Harcourt, and many others. Some duplication. The majority 13 x 8” or smaller, and completed in longhand or typed, with pertinent details on the length of each act, salaries to be paid (either straight or on a percentage basis), and frequently with marginal notations from the performer or his representative. Condition varies, but generally very good, with old folds and expected wear from age. An impressive archive filled with revealing vital data about a host of performers from the first half of the twentieth century.