8 of 98 lots
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Costume Ensemble from 1966 Original Broadway Production of Cabaret
Estimate: $300-$500
Sold
$900
Live Auction
Master of Ceremonies: The Joel Grey Collection
Description

Costume Ensemble from 1966 Original Broadway Production of Cabaret


Costume ensemble comprised of a black knit leotard with satin garters; a silver lamé bead-trimmed vest; a fabric and bead-trimmed cat-face gold lamé headband; and sequined elastic belt. Worn by Joel Grey in the 1966 Original Broadway production of Cabaret, when he was in drag in the kick-line in the opening of Act II.

Costume design by Patricia Zipprodt.


The Collection of Joel Grey

Condition
Condition: The overall condition is consistent with wear given the garment's use and vintage nature. Some discoloration marks scattered throughout leotard; hand-repaired run/tear at front of leotard, near left leg hole. Faint discoloration throughout lining of vest. Light fraying and thread pulls throughout lamé exterior; a few missing beads around edges. Rippling to elastic belt and discoloration throughout sequins. Cat-face headband is missing whiskers on one side; tip of ear has partially detached from backing on one side. Everything is sold 'As Is’. The stated overall condition of the lot is based on the assumption that the wear is consistent with age and use. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. All other condition issues are stated above. To request additional working condition photos, please email couturecr@hindmanauctions.com with the lot number. Condition is a matter of opinion of the evaluator and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Clients must review and agree to the Conditions of Sale before participating in an auction.
Provenance
Lot EssayThe present minimalist ensemble was worn by Mr. Grey as the emcee in the iconic kickline opening Act II of Cabaret. Appearing first simply as a kickline of cabaret girls, it's revealed that one of the performers is in fact the androgynous emcee in drag. The routine begins as a riotous, fun and sensual dance number, but gradually turns into a militarized goose-step, a succinct encapsulation of the overall storyline, blurring the lines between the interior of the Kit Kat Club and the political climate outside.