*The Music Man (1962) Robert Preston, and 50 similar items

Group of three (3) 8x10 in. single-weight glossy photographs from the classic 1960's musical comedy/romance, THE MUSIC MAN, released in 1962 by Warner Bros. and directed by Morton DaCosta. The photo feature Robert Preston, Shirley Jones, Paul Ford, and Hermione Gingold. Even though they are all dated 1961 in the lower left corner, they were printed at a later time and have a portion of the text in the bottom border in French. The negative number of each photo was handwritten in the bottom border in felt-tip pen. All three photographs are in very fine+ condition without any pinholes, tears, stains, or other flaws. Despite Robert Preston's Tony-award winning performance in the Broadway production, Warner Bros. executives wanted a bankable star in the lead role of Professor Harold Hill for the movie. Frank Sinatra was offered the part, but turned it down. Cary Grant was also approached, but told the Warner Bros. executives, "Not only will I not star in it, if Robert Preston doesn't star in it, I will not see it." Preston finally got the part, and the movie was a big success, despite Warner Bros' misgivings.