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BETTE MIDLER was born in 1945 in a small Hawaiian town where hers was the only Jewish family. She starred in more than twenty films and released twenty-four records. She gained her first following among the gay community by playing in the New York City Continental Baths and gay bars, where she expressed the campy and outrageous persona of “The Divine Miss M.”
Wonderful archive assembled by an early fan of The Divine Miss M. He attended her shows in the gay male venues of New York City.
The archive includes:
*A rare original 1973 copy of “Michael’s Thing: New York City’s Essential Queer City Guide.” Michael was Michael Giammetta, who published the guide from 1970-2000, a guide to cultural and social happenings. It was considered one of the main and most reliable sources of information. This was an era when notable publications like New York Magazine dismissed the culture of the gay community. The New York Times refused to even use the word “gay,” and the only mentions of gay people were derogatory. Michael’s Thing was also a bona fide news outlet that catered to the specific demographic with good reporting and top-notch arts coverage.
*Vinyl portfolio of nine original Kodachrome 8 x 10 photographs signed on the back “Stephen Schectman 1973,” featuring Midler performing at gay bars. Several include drag queen performers.
*Complete issue of People Magazine, January 7, 1980, with Bette Midler on the cover.
*Movie Stars Magazine, November 1973. “Bette Midler. Why her Hundreds of Lovers Can’t Satisfy Her.” With photo illustrations.
*Rolling Stone Issue No. 128, February 15, 1973. Bette Midler cover. Masthead clipped off.
Photographs and Michael’s Thing are in excellent condition. Normal wear to the other publications.
Everything we sell is guaranteed authentic forever to the original buyer. We also offer a 30-day return policy. If you discover a problem or are dissatisfied with an item, please contact us immediately. Our goal is to please every customer. We are pleased to be members of Preferred Autograph Dealers and sale Houses, The Manuscript Society, The Ephemera Society and the Southern New England Antiquarian Booksellers. [NAS 166]
