Popular Entertainment

Elvis Presley Record

This Museum's popular entertainment collections hold some of the Smithsonian's most beloved artifacts. The ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in The Wizard of Oz reside here, along with the Muppet character Kermit the Frog, and props from popular television series such as M*A*S*H and All in the Family. But as in many of the Museum's collections, the best-known objects are a small part of the story.

The collection also encompasses many other artifacts of 19th- and 20th-century commercial theater, film, radio, and TV—some 50,000 sound recordings dating back to 1903; posters, publicity stills, and programs from films and performances; puppets; numerous items from World's Fairs from 1851 to 1992; and audiovisual materials on Groucho Marx, to name only a few.

Date: 2000s

House Band

The house band at Tootsie's Orchid Lounge played for tips and the hope that they might be heard by Tootsie's record producing patrons.Currently not on view
Description
The house band at Tootsie's Orchid Lounge played for tips and the hope that they might be heard by Tootsie's record producing patrons.
Location
Currently not on view
negative
1974
print
2003
maker
Horenstein, Henry
ID Number
2003.0169.108
catalog number
2003.0169.108
accession number
2003.0169

The New Avengers No. 39

The New Avengers No. 39 features the story "Echo," written by Brian Michael Bendis, with art by David Mack.
Description
The New Avengers No. 39 features the story "Echo," written by Brian Michael Bendis, with art by David Mack. The cover features the characters of Echo and Wolverine.
The superhero team “The Avengers” were introduced by Marvel Comic's creators Stan Lee and Jack Kirby in 1963' Avengers No.1. Comprised of many of Marvel’s most popular characters, the long-running series has been adapted for animated television series and in block-buster feature films.
Derived from the original Avengers series, the The New Avengers began in 2005.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2008-05
maker
Marvel Comics
ID Number
2018.0171.15
accession number
2018.0171
catalog number
2018.0171.15

Black Lightning No. 1

Black Lightning Year One No. 1 was written by Jen Van Meter, with art by Cully Hammer.
Description
Black Lightning Year One No. 1 was written by Jen Van Meter, with art by Cully Hammer. It is the first of a 2009 six-issue limited series documenting the origins of the titular DC superhero.
Created by writer Tony Isabella artist Trevor Von Eeden, Black Lightning was introduced to comic readers in 1977. The first African American to headline a DC title, the hero, a man named Jefferson Pierce, has the ability to create and manipulate electricity. The character has been featured in animated film and series and video games, and headlined his own television program on The CW from 2018-2021.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2009
maker
D. C. Comics, Inc.
ID Number
2018.3010.263
catalog number
2018.3010.263
nonaccession number
2018.3010

Stephen Colbert’s “Portrait”

This digital image on canvas, resembling a formal oil portrait, is of writer-comedian Stephen Colbert in his guise as the fictional conservative host of the Comedy Central Network series, The Colbert Report.
Description (Brief)
This digital image on canvas, resembling a formal oil portrait, is of writer-comedian Stephen Colbert in his guise as the fictional conservative host of the Comedy Central Network series, The Colbert Report. In describing his on-screen persona of a blustery, right-wing news commentator, Colbert observed, “My character is self-important, poorly informed, well-intentioned but an idiot.” The show offers a hilariously scathing satire of TV news broadcasting and political talk show personalities. The “portrait,” originally a prominent part of the studio setting, emphasizes the mock formality of the show and its host.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2006
2008
ID Number
2009.3007.01
nonaccession number
2009.3007
catalog number
2009.3007.01

New X-Men: Hellions, No. 2

Written by Nunzio DeFilippis and Christina Weir, with art by Clayton Henry, this comic book features the Marvel Comics' X-Men spin-off The Hellions. The Hellions were introduced in 1984 as antagonists to the X-Men's New Mutants.
Description
Written by Nunzio DeFilippis and Christina Weir, with art by Clayton Henry, this comic book features the Marvel Comics' X-Men spin-off The Hellions. The Hellions were introduced in 1984 as antagonists to the X-Men's New Mutants. Since then, the group has been reinterpreted many times, often as adversaries or rivals to other groups of young X-Men.
The cover features the superhero Dust, a mutant who can turn transform into sand-like material. Dust's real name is Sooraya Qadir, a Sunni Muslim from Afghanistan. The character has been a member of many X-Men related teams, as well as part of the Champions supergroup.
Marvel Comics' X-Men were introduced by writer Stan Lee and artist Jack Kirby in 1963. The story follows a group of mutants born with superpowers led by wheelchair using telepath Professor Charles Xavier. Facing fear and prejudice for their differences, the comic has been used an allegory for topics related to race, gender and sexual identity. The X-Men first ran from 1963-1970, being reintroduced in 1975.
The X-Men have become one of Marvel's most notable franchises, introducing many of the company's most popular characters and many spin-off titles as well as movies, television programs, video games and other merchandise.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2005-08
maker
Marvel Comics
ID Number
2018.0171.16
accession number
2018.0171
catalog number
2018.0171.16

New X-Men: Hellions, No. 1

Written by Christina Weir and penciled by Clayton Henry, this comic book features Marvel Comics' X-Men spin-off The Hellions. The Hellions were introduced in 1984 as antagonists to the X-Men's New Mutants.
Description
Written by Christina Weir and penciled by Clayton Henry, this comic book features Marvel Comics' X-Men spin-off The Hellions. The Hellions were introduced in 1984 as antagonists to the X-Men's New Mutants. Since then, the group has been reinterpreted many times, often as adversaries or rivals to other groups of young X-Men. The cover of this issue features this version's mentor, former villain Emma Frost as well as the Sunni Muslim character Dust; Rockslide; Hellion; Mercury, Wither, and Tag, a hero of Puerto-Rican descent.
New X-Men: Hellions ran for four issues in 2005.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2005-07
maker
Marvel Comics
ID Number
2018.0171.08
catalog number
2018.0171.08
accession number
2018.0171

Cape, worn by Ric Flair

This cape was worn at Wrestlemania 24 (2008) by professional wrestler Ric "The Nature Boy" Flair, before the presumed final match of his 36 year career.
Description (Brief)
This cape was worn at Wrestlemania 24 (2008) by professional wrestler Ric "The Nature Boy" Flair, before the presumed final match of his 36 year career. Flair, born Richard Morgan Fliehr (1949,) began wrestling professionally in 1970 as part of the American Wrestling Association. He survived a broken back in 1975 to star in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA,) and later spent time as a top attraction for both the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and World Championship Wrestling (WCW.) Flair finished his career with the industry powerhouse WWF, now known as the WWE, or World Wrestling Federation/ Entertainment, returning to the league in 2001. One of professional wrestling's most charismatic and talented performers, Flair played both hero and villain, and was awarded dozens of championship belts over the course of his career.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2008
user
Fliehr, Richard M.
ID Number
2008.0072.01
accession number
2008.0072
catalog number
2008.0072.01

Simpsons Kwik-E-Mart interactive environment Apu talking figure playset

This Simpsons Kwik-E-Mart interactive environment Apu talking figure playset was one of a series of licensed Simpsons action figures and interactive environment playsets made by Playmates Toys in the early 2000s.
Description
This Simpsons Kwik-E-Mart interactive environment Apu talking figure playset was one of a series of licensed Simpsons action figures and interactive environment playsets made by Playmates Toys in the early 2000s. This particular model was released in August 2000, and Simpsons character Apu Nahasapeemapetilon, the proprietor of the fictional Kwik-E-Mart convenience store in the town of Springfield. The playset is a model of the Kwik-E-Mart, with its sales counter, microwave, cash register, and Squishy frozen drink machine. A sign on the cash register identifying Apu as the store’s owner also bears his signature catchphrase “Thank you, come again!” The Apu action figure depicts him in his customary costume of high-waisted khaki pants, half-unbuttoned black dress shirt, and green cardigan sweater, with black hair, a thin black mustache, and darker skin than the rest of the yellow skinned residents of Springfield. A photograph on the box illustrating the toy’s Intelli-Tronic “talking” function depicts Apu saying “I take it from your telling that you like my tofu dogs!” (sound recordings of actors reading phrases in the character voices are triggered by placing the action figures on a port embedded in the playset).
The Simpsons is an animated television sitcom that has aired on the Fox network since 1989, becoming one of the longest-running and most critically acclaimed television series of all time. Apu is an Indian immigrant to the United States and like many real-life immigrants, he works in the service sector. Voiced by Hank Azaria, the character was named in honor of the title character of The Apu Trilogy by Satyajit Ray and first appeared in the series’ eighth episode, “The Telltale Head,” which aired February 25, 1990. In the seasons that followed, Apu was frequently featured in episodes as a side and sometimes main character, becoming a fan favorite and one of the most prominent South Asian characters on primetime television in the United States. Azaria won three Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Voice-Over Performance and the Apu character was featured in a wide range of licensed merchandise. However, the character has not had a speaking appearance on the show since 2017, a decision apparently made in response to criticism of the character as a racist caricature of Indian Americans.
In his 2017 documentary The Problem with Apu, comedian Hari Kondabolu explored the impact of Apu on South Asian Americans and perceptions of South Asian Americans in American culture and society. Kondabolu brought attention to the history of the narrow and dehumanizing stereotypes that contributed to the character of Apu and the impact the character has had on the community. Apu’s voice is performed by a white man affecting a caricaturized Indian accent, with stilted pronunciation and grammar. Pakistani-American actor Kumail Nanjiani has said that early in his career he was told to do “the Apu accent” in performances. Many other South Asian American actors have spoken out about the narrow and typecast roles they’re offered, often limited to convenience store clerks, cab drivers, or technology workers. Apu is said to have earned a PhD in computer science from the Calcutta Technical Institute yet began working at the Kwik-E-Mart to repay his student loans. Like Apu, many South Asian men are depicted as being forced into arranged marriages and living in crowded homes with large families. With his wife Manjula, he raises eight children. In one episode, Apu is revealed to be an undocumented immigrant; he attempts to circumvent a new Springfiend illegal immigration deportation policy by purchasing a false birth certificate before finally passing a citizenship test.
The documentary and resulting conversation about Apu as a racist caricature forced the Simpsons creative team to respond. Though the show’s creator Matt Groening dismissed the criticism in a USA Today story, saying, "I think it's a time in our culture where people love to pretend they're offended," Hank Azaria spoke of his increasing discomfort with the character and journey to learn more about Apu’s harmful impact on South Asian Americans. The character was used sparingly in the years following the release of the documentary, with Azaria last performing his voice in the 2017 episode “The Serfsons.” In early 2020, he announced that he had come to an agreement with the production team to step away from performing as Apu, and in a 2021 interview on the Armchair Expert podcast, Azaria apologized for "racism, my participation in racism, or at least in a racist practice or in structural racism, as it relates to showbusiness or...all the above."
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2000
Associated Name
Azaria, Hank
maker
Playmates Toys, Inc.
ID Number
2023.0035.01
catalog number
2023.0035.01
accession number
2023.0035

Layout sketch for Dora the Explorer

Reference layout sketch used in the production of an episode of the Nickelodeon television series Dora the Explorer.
Description (Brief)
Reference layout sketch used in the production of an episode of the Nickelodeon television series Dora the Explorer. The sketch shows Dora and Boots having a telephone conversation, with a diagonal line drawn through the scene to indicate that it will be presented as a split screen shot. The sketch is drawn in red colored pencil and bears a stamp in blue ink reading "APPROVED BY DORA NY PRODU. OFFICE" along with the date OCT 2 2003.
Dora the Explorer was an animated children's television series that aired on the Nickelodeon cable network from 2000-2014, with a final season of six episodes airing in 2019 to help promote the franchise's first feature film, Dora and the Lost City of Gold. The educational series was created by Chris Gifford, Valerie Walsh Valdes, and Eric Weiner and produced by Nickelodeon Animation Studio. Dora the Explorer was notable for its Latina lead character, inclusion of Spanish language, and representation of Latino cultural themes, and the series was both a critical and ratings success. Each episode of the show found seven-year old Dora Marquez embarking on an adventure and asking audience members to help her along the way. The series' creators developed Dora as a bilingual, pan-Latino character after learning about the lack of Latino/a representation in children's television. Dora got her name from the Spanish feminine word for "explorer"- exploradora. The television series' success spawned spinoff series, foreign language adaptations, stage productions, video games, a live action feature film, and dozens of books, games, and toys.
date made
2003
producer
Nickelodeon
maker
Nickelodeon
ID Number
2020.0064.02
accession number
2020.0064
catalog number
2020.0064.02

Dark Matter Moving at the Speed of Light

Afrika Bambaataa. Dark Matter Moving at the Speed of Sound (Tommy Boy TB1601). 2-record set.33-1/3 rpmCurrently not on view
Description (Brief)
Afrika Bambaataa. Dark Matter Moving at the Speed of Sound (Tommy Boy TB1601). 2-record set.
33-1/3 rpm
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
2004
maker
Tommy Boy
ID Number
2006.3038.01
nonaccession number
2006.3038
catalog number
2006.3038.01
maker number
TB1601

Staff used by Felicia Day in Do You Wanna Date My Avatar music video

Staff prop used by Felicia Day in the role of Codex in the music video for the song Do You Wanna Date My Avatar and in the web series The Guild.
Description (Brief)
Staff prop used by Felicia Day in the role of Codex in the music video for the song Do You Wanna Date My Avatar and in the web series The Guild. The staff, designed and built by Greg Aronowitz, is a white rod decorated with a red and gold fixture at its base, a grip, and surmounted by a green orb and red and gold wings.
The music video was released in 2009 to promote Day's web series The Guild. The song's lyrics were written by Day and music was written by Jed Whedon, who also directed the video. The music video became a hit on YouTube, garnering a million views in its first two days on the platform and nearly 30 million within a decade.
date made
2009
user
Day, Felicia
maker
Aronowitz, Greg
ID Number
2017.0227.01
accession number
2017.0227
catalog number
2017.0227.01

Elvis in Hawai'i book

Elvis in Hawai'i, a soft cover book by Jerry Hopkins. Bess Press Inc first published this book in 2002. The cover features an image of a young Elvis in a suit smiling, wearing a lei around his neck, and his hands behind his head.
Description
Elvis in Hawai'i, a soft cover book by Jerry Hopkins. Bess Press Inc first published this book in 2002. The cover features an image of a young Elvis in a suit smiling, wearing a lei around his neck, and his hands behind his head. The book focuses on Elvis Presley's experiences in Hawaii while shooting various movies.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2002
referenced
Presley, Elvis
ID Number
2009.3057.01
catalog number
2009.3057.01

Mitts from Bombalurina costume used in the musical Cats

This pair of mitts are part of a costume worn by actresses portraying the character Bombalurina in the original Broadway production of Cats.
Description (Brief)
This pair of mitts are part of a costume worn by actresses portraying the character Bombalurina in the original Broadway production of Cats. The knit synthetic fabric mitts are printed with a cross hatch pattern in shades of orange and brown against a white ground, with black chenille and orange and black yarn fringe stitched in paces to imitate cat hair.
Bombalurina is a flirtatious and confident feline who often has featured solos in the show’s numbers “The Gumbie Cat,” “Rum Tum Tugger,” “Grizabella the Glamour Cat,” and “Bustopher Jones.” Bombalurina’s largest singing part is in “Macavity.” Depending on the production, Bombalurina sings various parts of these songs and usually sings the entirety of “Macavity.” Geraldine Gardner originated the role on the West End in 1981 and Donna King and Marlene Danielle later took on the role on Broadway. On the screen, Rosemarie Ford portrayed the character in the 1998 film and Taylor Swift portrayed her in the 2019 film adaptation.
Cats broke Broadway records with its run of 7,485 performances from 1982 until 2000 at New York’s Winter Garden Theatre. The play, written and composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on stories and characters from T. S. Eliot's 1939 Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, and first premiered in London’s West End in 1981. The expensive and spectacular production has been called the first “megamusical,” inaugurating a new period of Broadway theater history when big-budget shows with elaborate special effects, spectacular costumes, and rock music revived the theater district’s sagging fortunes. Cats earned multiple Tony awards in its original run and has since been revived on Broadway and in numerous national and international tours.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1982-2000
designer
Napier, John
ID Number
2000.0219.02.04
catalog number
2000.0219.02.04
accession number
2000.0219

Wig from Rum Tum Tugger costume used in the musical Cats

This wig is part of a costume worn by actors portraying the character Rum Tum Tugger in the original Broadway production of Cats.
Description (Brief)
This wig is part of a costume worn by actors portraying the character Rum Tum Tugger in the original Broadway production of Cats. The blond, brown, and orange-streaked synthetic hair wig is styled like a lion’s mane with ears ending in curled points.
One of the Jellicle tribe that introduces themselves over the course of the show, Rum Tum Tugger is portrayed as a rebellious and flirtatious cat who loves to be the center of attention. Rum Tum Tugger is a singing role with several solos like “The Rum Tum Tugger,” “Magical Mr. Mistoffelees,” and other featured parts. He originally embodied a rock star persona but takes on more of a rapper style in more recent adaptations, like the 2014 West End revival and the 2019 film adaptation. Paul Nicholas originated the role on the West End in 1981 and Terrance Mann later took on the role on Broadway in 1982. On the screen, John Partridge portrayed the character in the 1998 film and Jason Derulo portrayed him in the 2019 film adaptation.
Cats broke Broadway records with its run of 7,485 performances from 1982 until 2000 at New York’s Winter Garden Theatre. The play, written and composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on stories and characters from T. S. Eliot's 1939 Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, and first premiered in London’s West End in 1981. The expensive and spectacular production has been called the first “megamusical,” inaugurating a new period of Broadway theater history when big-budget shows with elaborate special effects, spectacular costumes, and rock music revived the theater district’s sagging fortunes. Cats earned multiple Tony awards in its original run and has since been revived on Broadway and in numerous national and international tours.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1982-2000
designer
Napier, John
ID Number
2000.0219.04.01
accession number
2000.0219
catalog number
2000.0219.04.01

Shoulder Pads worn by Lucy Lawless in the role of Xena on the TV Series Xena: Warrior Princess

Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001) was one of the most popular syndicated dramas on American television. Audience interest in the program helped lead a new wave of tough female action-adventure heroes in American popular culture.
Description
Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001) was one of the most popular syndicated dramas on American television. Audience interest in the program helped lead a new wave of tough female action-adventure heroes in American popular culture. The character remains a touchstone to many, including as a LGBTQ icon, with that aspect of the character's life hinted at strongly throughout the show.
Portrayed by American actress Lucy Lawless, the character of Xena was first introduced on the program Hercules: The Legendary Journeys (1995-1999.) Like Hercules, the spin-off Xena: Warrior Princess was set in a fantastical historical era based on the mythology of Ancient Greece.
On the program, Xena, a fierce fighter with exceptional abilities, embarks upon good deeds to atone for past sins. She is accompanied on her journey by her close companion Gabrielle, played by Renee O'Connor.
The show attracted a devoted following, and during its run was consistently amongst the most watched syndicated television programs in the United States. Having aired in over 100 countries around the world, its success has spawned numerous tie-ins such as video games, comic books and an animated movie.
date made
1995 - 2001
Associated Name
Lawless, Lucy
ID Number
2005.0281.06
accession number
2005.0281
catalog number
2005.0281.06

Breast Plate worn by Lucy Lawless in the role of Xena on the TV Series Xena: Warrior Princess

Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001) was one of the most popular syndicated dramas on American television. Audience interest in the program helped lead a new wave of tough female action-adventure heroes in American popular culture.
Description
Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001) was one of the most popular syndicated dramas on American television. Audience interest in the program helped lead a new wave of tough female action-adventure heroes in American popular culture. The character remains a touchstone to many, including as a LGBTQ icon, with that aspect of the character's life hinted at strongly throughout the show.
Portrayed by American actress Lucy Lawless, the character of Xena was first introduced on the program Hercules: The Legendary Journeys (1995-1999.) Like Hercules, the spin-off Xena: Warrior Princess was set in a fantastical historical era based on the mythology of Ancient Greece.
On the program, Xena, a fierce fighter with exceptional abilities, embarks upon good deeds to atone for past sins. She is accompanied on her journey by her close companion Gabrielle, played by Renee O'Connor.
The show attracted a devoted following, and during its run was consistently amongst the most watched syndicated television programs in the United States. Having aired in over 100 countries around the world, its success has spawned numerous tie-ins such as video games, comic books and an animated movie.
date made
1995 - 2001
Associated Name
Lawless, Lucy
ID Number
2005.0281.03
accession number
2005.0281
catalog number
2005.0281.03

Gloves from Grizabella costume used in the musical Cats

This pair of gloves is part of a costume worn by actresses portraying the character Grizabella in the original Broadway production of Cats. The gloves are made of synthetic knit fabric printed with a variegated horizontal brown, white, gray, and black stripe pattern.
Description (Brief)
This pair of gloves is part of a costume worn by actresses portraying the character Grizabella in the original Broadway production of Cats. The gloves are made of synthetic knit fabric printed with a variegated horizontal brown, white, gray, and black stripe pattern. Tapered copper-colored nails are attached at the finger tips.
Grizabella the Glamour Cat is the musical’s main character, responsible for singing the hit song “Memory.” Grizabella was once a glamourous cat but is now lonely and decrepit; she is ostracized by the Jellicle tribe and seeks re-acceptance in the community. She is eventually chosen as the “Jellicle choice” to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and return to a new life. Grizabella’s story was not included in Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, as it was deemed “too sad for children.” T. S. Eliot’s widow, Valerie Eliot, gave Andrew Lloyd Webber the poem which describes the former glamour cat who has fallen on hard times and roams the red-light district near Tottenham Court. Elaine Page originated the role on the West End in 1981 and reprised the role in the 1998 film. Betty Buckley later took on the role on Broadway in 1982. Jennifer Hudson portrayed her in the 2019 film adaptation.
Cats broke Broadway records with its run of 7,485 performances from 1982 until 2000 at New York’s Winter Garden Theatre. The play, written and composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on stories and characters from T. S. Eliot's 1939 Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, and first premiered in London’s West End in 1981. The expensive and spectacular production has been called the first “megamusical,” inaugurating a new period of Broadway theater history when big-budget shows with elaborate special effects, spectacular costumes, and rock music revived the theater district’s sagging fortunes. Cats earned multiple Tony awards in its original run and has since been revived on Broadway and in numerous national and international tours.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1982-2000
designer
Napier, John
ID Number
2000.0219.03.05
accession number
2000.0219
catalog number
2000.0219.03.05

Vest from Rum Tum Tugger costume used in the musical Cats

This vest is part of a costume worn by actors portraying the character Rum Tum Tugger in the original Broadway production of Cats. The three-piece vest is made of a black synthetic knit fabric.
Description (Brief)
This vest is part of a costume worn by actors portraying the character Rum Tum Tugger in the original Broadway production of Cats. The three-piece vest is made of a black synthetic knit fabric. It has a deep shawl collar with beige and white synthetic fur and white plastic wire fringe attached. A silver metal chain is attached across the front midway down the v-neck opening. The vest has a black leather belt stuffed with flat silver metal pyramid and disk shapes. A long tail of braided black and orange plush fabrics and orange and black yarn runs down from the back.
One of the Jellicle tribe that introduces themselves over the course of the show, Rum Tum Tugger is portrayed as a rebellious and flirtatious cat who loves to be the center of attention. Rum Tum Tugger is a singing role with several solos like “The Rum Tum Tugger,” “Magical Mr. Mistoffelees,” and other featured parts. He originally embodied a rock star persona but takes on more of a rapper style in more recent adaptations, like the 2014 West End revival and the 2019 film adaptation. Paul Nicholas originated the role on the West End in 1981 and Terrance Mann later took on the role on Broadway in 1982. On the screen, John Partridge portrayed the character in the 1998 film and Jason Derulo portrayed him in the 2019 film adaptation.
Cats broke Broadway records with its run of 7,485 performances from 1982 until 2000 at New York’s Winter Garden Theatre. The play, written and composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on stories and characters from T. S. Eliot's 1939 Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, and first premiered in London’s West End in 1981. The expensive and spectacular production has been called the first “megamusical,” inaugurating a new period of Broadway theater history when big-budget shows with elaborate special effects, spectacular costumes, and rock music revived the theater district’s sagging fortunes. Cats earned multiple Tony awards in its original run and has since been revived on Broadway and in numerous national and international tours.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1982-2000
designer
Napier, John
ID Number
2000.0219.04.04
accession number
2000.0219
catalog number
2000.0219.04.04

Porter Wagoner

One of the most recognizable figures in country music, Porter Wagoner was known as the "Thin Man from West Plains, Missouri." He began recording music in 1954 after several years of singing on a local radio station. In 1961, Wagoner (b.
Description
One of the most recognizable figures in country music, Porter Wagoner was known as the "Thin Man from West Plains, Missouri." He began recording music in 1954 after several years of singing on a local radio station. In 1961, Wagoner (b. 1927) began to host his own country music television show, which was syndicated for 21 years.
Location
Currently not on view
negative
1972
print
2003
depicted (sitter)
Wagoner, Porter
maker
Horenstein, Henry
ID Number
2003.0169.022
accession number
2003.0169
catalog number
2003.0169.022

Trousers from Mistoffelees costume used in the musical Cats

These trousers are part of a costume worn by actors portraying the character Mr. Mistoffelees in the original Broadway production of Cats.
Description
These trousers are part of a costume worn by actors portraying the character Mr. Mistoffelees in the original Broadway production of Cats. Primarily made of black velvet, the costume contains multiple miniature light bulbs that can be activated by metal plates attached to its gloves. A black-and-white tuxedo cat, Mr. Mistoffelees possesses magical powers celebrated in the song “Magical Mr. Mistoffelees.” While Mistoffelees sometimes sings depending on the production, it is primarily a featured dancing role. The character has some of the most challenging choreography in the show, including his signature move the “Conjuring Turn,” which is twenty-four consecutive fouettés en tournant. Wayne Sleep originated the role on the West End in 1981 and Timothy Scott later took on the role on Broadway in 1982. On the screen, Jacob Brent portrayed the character in the 1998 film and Laurie Davidson portrayed him in the 2019 film adaptation.
Cats broke Broadway records with its run of 7,485 performances from 1982 until 2000 at New York’s Winter Garden Theatre. The play, written and composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on stories and characters from T. S. Eliot's 1939 Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, and first premiered in London’s West End in 1981. The expensive and spectacular production has been called the first “megamusical,” inaugurating a new period of Broadway theater history when big-budget shows with elaborate special effects, spectacular costumes, and rock music revived the theater district’s sagging fortunes. Cats earned multiple Tony awards in its original run and has since been revived on Broadway and in numerous national and international tours.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1982-2000
designer
Napier, John
Napier, John
ID Number
2000.0219.01.02
catalog number
2000.0219.01.02
accession number
2000.0219

Loretta Lynn

Loretta Lynn is a classic country singer whose life--from her autobiography, Coal Miner's Daughter--is a well-known story. She was one of the first stars to sing with a feminist point of view.
Description
Loretta Lynn is a classic country singer whose life--from her autobiography, Coal Miner's Daughter--is a well-known story. She was one of the first stars to sing with a feminist point of view. Her songs, like "Don't Come Home a-Drinkin' (with Lovin' on Your Mind)" and "The Pill," broke new ground in country music. Lynn (b. 1935) and Conway Twitty were named Vocal Duo of the Year by the Country Music Association for years in a row in the early 1970s.
Location
Currently not on view
negative
1971
print
2003
depicted (sitter)
Lynn, Loretta
maker
Horenstein, Henry
ID Number
2003.0169.011
accession number
2003.0169
catalog number
2003.0169.011

Fur pelts from Grizabella costume used in the musical Cats

This pair of fur pelts is part of a costume worn by actresses portraying the character Grizabella in the original Broadway production of Cats.
Description (Brief)
This pair of fur pelts is part of a costume worn by actresses portraying the character Grizabella in the original Broadway production of Cats. The gray-colored pelts were to be used for repairs to the coat and shoes of the costume.
Grizabella the Glamour Cat is the musical’s main character, responsible for singing the hit song “Memory.” Grizabella was once a glamourous cat but is now lonely and decrepit; she is ostracized by the Jellicle tribe and seeks re-acceptance in the community. She is eventually chosen as the “Jellicle choice” to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and return to a new life. Grizabella’s story was not included in Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, as it was deemed “too sad for children.” T. S. Eliot’s widow, Valerie Eliot, gave Andrew Lloyd Webber the poem which describes the former glamour cat who has fallen on hard times and roams the red-light district near Tottenham Court. Elaine Page originated the role on the West End in 1981 and reprised the role in the 1998 film. Betty Buckley later took on the role on Broadway in 1982. Jennifer Hudson portrayed her in the 2019 film adaptation.
Cats broke Broadway records with its run of 7,485 performances from 1982 until 2000 at New York’s Winter Garden Theatre. The play, written and composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on stories and characters from T. S. Eliot's 1939 Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, and first premiered in London’s West End in 1981. The expensive and spectacular production has been called the first “megamusical,” inaugurating a new period of Broadway theater history when big-budget shows with elaborate special effects, spectacular costumes, and rock music revived the theater district’s sagging fortunes. Cats earned multiple Tony awards in its original run and has since been revived on Broadway and in numerous national and international tours.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1982-2000
ID Number
2000.0219.03.08
accession number
2000.0219
catalog number
2000.0219.03.08

Wrist Bands worn by Lucy Lawless in the role of Xena on the TV Series Xena: Warrior Princess

Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001) was one of the most popular syndicated dramas on American television. Audience interest in the program helped lead a new wave of tough female action-adventure heroes in American popular culture.
Description
Xena: Warrior Princess (1995-2001) was one of the most popular syndicated dramas on American television. Audience interest in the program helped lead a new wave of tough female action-adventure heroes in American popular culture. The character remains a touchstone to many, including as a LGBTQ icon, with that aspect of the character's life hinted at strongly throughout the show.
Portrayed by American actress Lucy Lawless, the character of Xena was first introduced on the program Hercules: The Legendary Journeys (1995-1999.) Like Hercules, the spin-off Xena: Warrior Princess was set in a fantastical historical era based on the mythology of Ancient Greece.
On the program, Xena, a fierce fighter with exceptional abilities, embarks upon good deeds to atone for past sins. She is accompanied on her journey by her close companion Gabrielle, played by Renee O'Connor.
The show attracted a devoted following, and during its run was consistently amongst the most watched syndicated television programs in the United States. Having aired in over 100 countries around the world, its success has spawned numerous tie-ins such as video games, comic books and an animated movie.
date made
1995 - 2001
Associated Name
Lawless, Lucy
ID Number
2005.0281.02
accession number
2005.0281
catalog number
2005.0281.02

Jacket from Mistoffelees costume used in the musical Cats

This jacket is part of a costume worn by actors portraying the character Mr. Mistoffelees in the original Broadway production of Cats.
Description
This jacket is part of a costume worn by actors portraying the character Mr. Mistoffelees in the original Broadway production of Cats. The jacket is made of black velvet decorated with rhinestones and strands of black bugle beads ending in fluted clear plastic beads, with three strands of silver foil fringed garlands stitched around bib, which conceals snaps and a zipper closure underneath. The jacket’s round neckline is trimmed in black satin with front center bow tie. The long padded sleeves are all in one with gloves which are lined on palm side with soft beige fabric and round beige leather pads, faceted tear-drop-shaped fingernails, and thumb and first finger brass pads underneath, which, when held together, switch on the electrical current in the wiring stitched inside the fingers to operate the lights throughout the costume.
A black-and-white tuxedo cat, Mr. Mistoffelees possesses magical powers celebrated in the song “Magical Mr. Mistoffelees.” While Mistoffelees sometimes sings depending on the production, it is primarily a featured dancing role. The character has some of the most challenging choreography in the show, including his signature move the “Conjuring Turn,” which is twenty-four consecutive fouettés en tournant. Wayne Sleep originated the role on the West End in 1981 and Timothy Scott later took on the role on Broadway in 1982. On the screen, Jacob Brent portrayed the character in the 1998 film and Laurie Davidson portrayed him in the 2019 film adaptation.
Cats broke Broadway records with its run of 7,485 performances from 1982 until 2000 at New York’s Winter Garden Theatre. The play, written and composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber based on stories and characters from T. S. Eliot's 1939 Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, and first premiered in London’s West End in 1981. The expensive and spectacular production has been called the first “megamusical,” inaugurating a new period of Broadway theater history when big-budget shows with elaborate special effects, spectacular costumes, and rock music revived the theater district’s sagging fortunes. Cats earned multiple Tony awards in its original run and has since been revived on Broadway and in numerous national and international tours.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1982-2000
designer
Napier, John
Napier, John
ID Number
2000.0219.01.03
catalog number
2000.0219.01.03
accession number
2000.0219

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