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The Suit

Autograph Suit with close to 300 autographs and drawings on it, started by theatre vet Vincent Esoldi at the opening night party of Sherlock Holmes in 1974, held at Sardi's restaurant. Ethel Merman was the first autograph (she was loudly enthusiastic). The range of celebrities- from deceased baseball player Thurman Munson to composer Richard Rodgers, also includes Lady Rachael Roberts, Dames Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Elizabeth Taylor; Lord Laurence Olivier; President Gerald Ford; Governor Jerry Brown and Thomas Kean (his first signature after becoming Governor). Let's not forget Congresswoman Bella Abzug-Mayors Abe Beame and Ed Koch(whose signature is on the crotch!). The Kleins-Calvin, and Robert and Kevin Kline too. Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, with Harrison Ford(even little R2D2 Kenny Baker). Sunset Blvd. Stars Gloria Swanson (film) and Glenn Close (musical). Stage director Jack Hoffsiss and actor Christopher Reeve before their terrible accidents. Frank and Barbara Sinatra; Paul Newman and Joanne Woodward; Merv Griffin and Mrs, Miller. Peter Allen; Henry Fonda and Jack Lemmon. There's three Carol(e)s- Burnett, Channing and Shelley; one Cloris- Leachman; one Chita-Rivera and the one and only Cher. Whew! It's starting to sound like 'Drop That Name' form "Bells Are Ringing"! Oh yes, Betty Comden & Adolph Green.

The suit as a canvas - Liza Minnelli drew a happy face; Charles Strouse, composer of Annie, drew a bar of music; Bob Mackie sketched the bow dress he designed for Alexis Smith in Platinum; and Theoni V. Aldredge, drew a clown for Barnum, complete with rhinestones and sequin stars.

The Autograph Suit consists of a jacket, vest, pant, sneakers, tie, scarf, shirt, and 3 handkerchiefs.

   

 

   

 

 

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