Margaret Pellegrini (1923-2013).
In 2003 I was hired to play piano accompaniment for a children's production of "The Wizard of Oz" at JPAS in New Orleans. The day of the opening performance I was invited to go along to a Morning Show television taping with director Rene J. F. Piazza and Margaret Pellegrini, one of the original Munchkins in the 1939 MGM W.O.Z. She was in town to make a special appearance before the show, and to sign autographs.
Before going to the WWL station, we went to for breakfast at La Peniche. Ms. Pellegrini told us stories of the filming of "Wizard", as well as other colorful tales of her life's adventures, such as being hired to "do the ballyhoo" for Sally Rand at one of the World's Fairs. It was extraordinary to sit and talk with her over eggs and coffee. And then, later, to see her come out onstage and answer questions from the audience.
But it wasn't until after the first act, when I came out into the lobby for intermission, that I experienced a truly magical moment. She was sitting at a table signing autographs, and wearing a replica of her Munchkin costume, complete with a flower-pot hat (she was one of the "rub your eyes get out of bed" girls). As I stood there and watched, all of the world's troubles vanished, and the air turned to sugar.Time stood still and it was...magic.
Margaret Pelligrini has left this world, leaving only two Munchkins. Somewhere on an old computer I have a photo from our La Peniche breakfast. I haven't time to search for it today. But for now, I will share this signed photo that she gave to me that day. And I do treasure it.
©️ 2015 Harry Mayronne
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