Gene Mann presents Finian's Rainbow (Souvenir Program)
Ephemera, theatrical print/souvenir program cover • Illustration attributed to Don Freeman (artist indicated by signature profile); publication by Gene Mann for the Greek Theatre in Griffith Park
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern illustration / Theater Ephemera
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography on cardstock; utilizes graphic design elements including hand-drawn illustration and stylized typography
Creation Period
circa 1951
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 9 x 12 inches; vertical portrait format
Subject Description
A whimsical depiction of the character Og the Leprechaun sitting atop a large sack of gold (the pot of gold from the play). In the background, a circular vignette shows a stylized landscape with rolling fields, a gnarled tree, and a group of dancers representative of the musical's 'Rainbow Valley' setting.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; slight foxing and tanning visible on the left edge and top corner, typical of aged acidic paper
Estimated Market Value
$40 - $120 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $75 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles during the 5th annual season of the venue's summer program (c. 1951)
Art Historical Significance
Represents the mid-century promotion of musical theater in the Los Angeles area. The Greek Theatre was historically significant for bringing Broadway-style productions to Southern California under Gene Mann's production leadership.
Notable Features
Includes the specific text '5th Annual Season - GREEK THEATRE in Griffith Park', anchoring it to a specific moment in Los Angeles cultural history
Condition Issues
Visible foxing (brown spotting) on the left margin, minor edge wear, and horizontal paper toning
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in an acid-free archival sleeve; protect from direct UV light to prevent further yellowing and fading of the green and black inks