Ink signatures of Jackie Gleason and Art Carney on individual 5 x 3 white cards (circa 1980), and 2 wonderfully expressive contact proof sheets containing 23 images of the Honeymooners cast in rehearsals for the touching full hour 1966 special "The Adoption", in which the Kramdens deal with the rarely mentioned subject of adopting a child. This was the very last Honeymooners episode ever filmed in black and white with a live audience. It aired on January 8, 1966 - the first non-sketch episode since 1957. Other than the ABC reunion specials in the late 1970s, this episode also marked Audrey Meadow's only return to the role of "Alice". The first sheet bears a descriptive label and is dated 12/29/65. Shown both in and out of character are Jackie Gleason, Art Carney, Audrey Meadows, as well as Gleason's choreographer June Taylor, writers and other members of the production staff and cast. Although Jackie Gleason often claimed he did not rehearse to preserve spontaneity, he is shown reading and referring to the script several times. Images include both Ralph's and Ed's trademark hats, musical numbers being worked out for the 1966/1967 season, rehearsals in the mock "Kramden kitchen" and many humorous personal moments between Gleason and his stars. In fine condition, with minor edge wear to the contact sheets. R&R COA. Note: Sold as a collectible only. No reproduction rights are offered or implied.
