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Bela Lugosi Signed "Arsenic and Old Lace" Program

Currency:USD Category:Memorabilia / Autographs - Original Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,000,000.00 USD
Bela Lugosi Signed  Arsenic and Old Lace  Program
<B>Bela Lugosi Signed "Arsenic and Old Lace" Program.</B></I> One of the great actors of his generation, Bela Lugosi made a name for himself in the title role of Universal Studio's adaptation of "Dracula," a role he first made famous on Broadway, yet he always seemed to play second fiddle to that <I>other</B></I> famous horror actor, Boris Karloff. Lugosi, however, rejected the role of the monster in Universal's adaptation of "Frankenstein" (it was a non-speaking part), opting to attach his name to a project that ultimately went unproduced, while Karloff instead donned the make-up and became a superstar in his own right. His career flagging, Lugosi worked in repertory productions of "Dracula" and "Arsenic and Old Lace" during the late '40s, his role in the latter being one Karloff had made famous on Broadway (the film version even makes reference to him). Featured here is a program for a three-day performance of the play at the Playhouse in Wilmington, Delaware, signed by Lugosi as well as by cast members Jean Adair, Malcolm Lee Beggs, Ruth McDevitt, Jack Whiting, Ann Lincoln, and Henry Sherwood. The item is in great condition with some toning, and Lugosi's signature is big and bold and near the top. Also included is a handbill advertising the production (look closely; that's Lugosi's name above the title, but the picture next to it is Karloff's). A fine lot for fans of Golden Age horror movies. <I>With COA from PSA/DNA.</B></I>