In 1895, the Houdinis joined the Welsh Brothers Circus for six months. Harry gave her the credit for his success, and developed the habit of writing her a love note every day. He depended on her to care for him and handle the necessities of life. Harry and Bess remained devoted companions for the rest of his life. (Theo started a solo career as a magician under the name Hardeen). Harry and Bess married in 1894 and Bess joined the act as Harry's new partner. This changed when Harry met Beatrice Raymond, a teenaged singer and dancer who was also attempting a career in show business. For a time he worked with his brother Theo as The Houdini Brothers. A handsome example.Harry Houdini began his professional career at age 17 doing magic shows before civic groups, in music halls, at sideshows, and at New York's Coney Island amusement park, where he sometimes performed 20 shows each day. Binding with light bumping to corners and spine ends, a bit of rubbing to rear board joints just starting at head and tail of spine. Bookseller label of "The Old Corner Book Store" to title page. Publisher's bookshop label to front pastedown. Dedication slip to Harry Kellar tipped onto second leaf, as usual. Illustrated in black and white with pictorial ads to pastedowns seven photographic plates.
This attractive copy is a fascinating peek document of the methods of one of the world's greatest showmen. In MAGICAL ROPE TIES AND ESCAPES, Houdini advises on everything from the scripted "patter" to keep observers entertained during the escape ("There is nothing more contagious than exuberant enthusiasm, and it is sure to 'get' an audience") to the best type of rope to use for tricks (Silver Lake Sash Cord).
Another facet of his efforts to grow the magic field was his series of guidebooks for popular feats and tricks. Houdini wasn't just a master magician: he was a passionate educator, greatly expanding the membership and purview of the Society of American Magicians, revitalizing the group with new practitioners. First printing of this how-to magic book by the escape master himself, Harry Houdini.
0 kommentar(er)
