ent001357-007

RED SKELTON I I (Fair Appearances) While Red was on tour at the recent Fairs, I invited the managers of two of the largest Fairs Ih th Jack Reynolds of the EASTERN STATES EXPOSITION, Springfield, Massachusetts, and Ed Leitig of the ALLENTOWN FAIR, Allentown, Pennsylvania, to visit us and catch the show* I have since received firm offers from both of the abovementioned managers for Red to appear next season for $15,000. per day, con- sisting of a late matinee and evening performance on each day - September 13th through the 17th in Allentown, and September 18th through the 21st at the Eastern States Exposition in Springfield. Allentown is a short distance from Philadelphia, and there are a number of flights daily from Philadelphia to Springfield, involve ing approximately 1-1/2 hours51 flight time on Thursday morning, September 18th. Consequently, there is ample time to fill these dates on consecutive days, including rehearsal, etc., as the matinee in Springfield would be at approximately 5:00 p.m. Both Fairs will furnish the entire package and costs, including orchestra, orchestra leader, and other acts, to be approved by you and Red. Total for the nine (9) days for Skelton ?╟÷ $135,000. This exceeds any other compensation paid to any performer in the history of Fair attractions. Enclosed is a story which appeared in the September 28th issue of Variety concerning the Lawrence Welk engagement at the Allentown Fair and Eastern States Exposition last month. In Welk*s case, however, he paid for the 45 musicians and entertainers in his package from his guarantees and percentage. The $15,000. per day for Red is based upon Red*s statement while on tour that he would prefer a $15,000. per day price for his services in lieu of guar- antees and percentages on future Fair engagements. The Allentown appearances will be on a large movable stage, placed on the track in front of the grandstand* The Eastern States appear- ances would be indoors in the Coliseum, similar to the setup at Indianapolis - with the stage at one end and chairs placed on the arena floor in addition to the permanent seats in the arena, which seats approximately 9,000 people. Both have excellent lights and sound. Both Fair managers are quite anxious to receive some indication as to Red*s interest at the earliest possible date, in order that they may plan accordingly. * *