This is the story of the world and magic shows of Harry Blackstone (1885-1965), who entertained theatre-goers for over 50 seasons. Gifted with an electric presence, a magnificent voice and a master magician’s mentality and skills, he played everything from showboats to vaudeville to television. Blackstone’s extravagant productions advertised “1001 wonders” and “an enchanting array of beautiful girls.” Waldron’s vivid and thoroughly researched narrative, enhanced with first-hand accounts by those who worked on the Blackstone show, presents an unforgettable portrait of a unique showman. Illustrated throughout with photographs.
” Waldron’s readable treatment of [Blackstone’s show] is a reminder of one of the great 20th-century entertainers.” — Mike Tribby, Booklist, November 15, 1999
“…A fine view not only of [Blackstone’s] personal life and achievements, but [of] road show acts of the times.” — The Bookwatch, October 1999
Daniel Waldron is preeminently qualified to tell this story. His fondness for his subject … translates into a rich, evocative account.” — Michael Claxton, Theatre Survey, 2000
Hardcover: 230 pages
Publisher: David Meyer Magic Books (September 1, 1999)
