The Wizard of Oz Ray Bolger as The Scarecrow 20" Doll Franklin Heirloom NEW

With a flair that came from years of performing on the stage, Ray Bolger played The Scarecrow in the classic 1939 film The Wizard of Oz, and brought to his role a perfect blend of humor, pathos and athleticism.

Searching for a brain, The Scarecrow joined Dorothy, The Tin Man and the Cowardly Lion on their adventure-filled trip to visit the mighty Wizard, who supposedly had the power to grant their wishes.

For his role as The Scarecrow, Bolger was re- quired to report to the studio at 6:15 a.m. six days a week. His day began with almost two hours in the makeup chair, while a specially molded rubber bag that covered his head and neck was glued in place and exposed parts of his face were made up. At the end of the day it took another hour just to remove the rubber bag, 100 of which were used during the making of the movie.

Ray Bolger began his career in show business in 1922 as a comedian and dancer. He described his eccentric dancing style as 'throwing my body around,' but, in fact, he had been instructed in ballet and worked extremely hard to perfect his technique. He earned rave reviews for his bravura performance in the 1936 musical On Your Toes, in which he had the male lead. Bolger's Broadway triumph led him to embark on a film career. He appeared in three movies before joining the cast of The Wizard of Oz, but he kept returning to Broadway to star in such musicals as Where's Charley? and Babes in Toyland, both of which were later made into highly successful movies. His charming rendition of 'Once in Love with Amy', from the hit Where's Charley?, was so popular that it became his theme song.

While Bolger had many bigger parts during his distinguished career, it is his delightful interpretation of the rubber-legged Scarecrow that assured him lasting fame.

This unique collector doll, authentically costumed and with features hand-painted to re- create that friendly, whimsical character, has captured the very essence of that role and all the charm of Ray Bolger in his magnificent portrayal of The Scarecrow.

20" tall. - Franklin Heirloom exclusive 1989! - Intricately detailed! A beautiful piece! - Includes doll stand. - For the adult collector, age 14 and over.

The box has some edge wear, creasing and scuffing. The shipper box has wear, staining and has been written on. The doll does not appear to have been removed from the box. Includes the Certificate of Authenticity.