This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/26/2023
HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 – 1926). Houdini Theatrical Contract. Dated May 9, 1904, and being a contract for Houdini’s Christmastime engagements in England from December 26 – 31, 1904, the terms stipulate that Houdini and “the full company of 10” will appear at the Grand Theatre, Bolton, and that the company will include the “said Houdini,” who shall be entitled to 60 percent of the gross receipts. Edgewear and soiling, chips and splitting at old folds. BOLDLY SIGNED by Houdini and dated May 19, 1904 in ink, and with a marginal notation in ink stating, “Houdini has the right to work up matinee Sat. for challenge!” RARE; only the second Houdini contract we have offered. Terms and conditions including the type of advertising, and other stipulations, have been amended or crossed out, likely in Houdini’s hand, on both sides of the contract, and additional notations are also present, including penciled initials of the theatre proprietor. The rubber stamp of Day’s Agency, who represented Houdini, is also prominent at the top of the recto of the contract. It is interesting to note that Houdini was, by 1904, working on a straight percentage basis for these engagements as opposed to receiving a fixed salary.