The magic of the Lollipop Guild! Who can resist the charm of these endearing characters from the classic 1939 film "The Wizard of Oz"? As we delve into the fascinating world of the Lollipop Guild, you'll discover some surprising and delightful facts about these beloved actors.
The Birth of the Lollipop Guild
The Lollipop Guild was created by the famous MGM Studios as a way to showcase the talents of three actors who were part of the studio's roster of "little people." The trio consisted of Jerry Maren, Victor Kilian, and Meinhardt Raabe, each with their own unique personality and charm.
Fact #1: The Lollipop Guild Members Were Not Just Actors, But Also Skilled Dancers
Before being cast in "The Wizard of Oz," Jerry Maren, Victor Kilian, and Meinhardt Raabe were all accomplished dancers. They had honed their skills in various stage productions and had even performed in musicals and revues. Their dance background served them well in the iconic "Lollipop Guild" scene, where they showcased their talents in a memorable and entertaining way.
The Making of the Iconic "Lollipop Guild" Scene
The "Lollipop Guild" scene was filmed over several days, with the actors rehearsing their choreography and perfecting their timing. The scene was directed by King Vidor, who worked closely with the actors to ensure that their performances were flawless.
Fact #2: The Lollipop Guild Members Were Paid a Meager $50 Per Week
Despite their talents and the enduring popularity of the film, the Lollipop Guild members were paid a relatively small salary. Jerry Maren, Victor Kilian, and Meinhardt Raabe each earned $50 per week, which is approximately $900 in today's dollars.
The Legacy of the Lollipop Guild
The Lollipop Guild has become an integral part of pop culture, inspiring countless imitations, parodies, and references in film, television, and music. Their iconic performance has been viewed by millions of people around the world, cementing their place in the hearts of audiences everywhere.
Fact #3: Jerry Maren Was the Last Surviving Member of the Lollipop Guild
Jerry Maren passed away in 2018 at the age of 98, marking the end of an era. He was the last surviving member of the original Lollipop Guild and had spent his later years attending fan conventions and sharing his memories of working on "The Wizard of Oz."
The Lollipop Guild's Connection to the Wizard of Oz
The Lollipop Guild's performance in "The Wizard of Oz" was more than just a memorable scene – it was also a pivotal moment in the film's narrative. The guild's song and dance number served as a welcome to Dorothy and her friends as they entered the Land of Oz.
Fact #4: The Lollipop Guild's Song Was Written by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg
The Lollipop Guild's song was written by the renowned songwriting duo Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg. The pair had previously collaborated on other successful musicals and went on to win numerous awards for their work on "The Wizard of Oz."
The Lollipop Guild's Impact on Popular Culture
The Lollipop Guild's influence can be seen in various aspects of popular culture, from music and film to advertising and fashion. Their iconic performance has been referenced and parodied countless times, cementing their status as cultural icons.
Fact #5: The Lollipop Guild Members Were Not Just Limited to Acting
In addition to their acting talents, the Lollipop Guild members were also skilled in other areas. Jerry Maren was a talented artist, while Victor Kilian was an accomplished musician. Meinhardt Raabe was a gifted writer and had published several books.
The Lollipop Guild's Enduring Appeal
So, what makes the Lollipop Guild so endearing to audiences? Their charm, charisma, and undeniable talent have all contributed to their enduring appeal. As we look back on their iconic performance, it's clear that the Lollipop Guild will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.
Fact #6: The Lollipop Guild Members Had a Special Bond
Despite their differences, the Lollipop Guild members formed a strong bond during the filming of "The Wizard of Oz." They remained close friends throughout their lives and often reunited for special events and reunions.
Fact #7: The Lollipop Guild's Performance Has Been Preserved in the National Film Registry
In 1989, the Library of Congress selected "The Wizard of Oz" for preservation in the National Film Registry, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance. The Lollipop Guild's performance is an integral part of this iconic film, ensuring their legacy will be preserved for generations to come.
Who were the original members of the Lollipop Guild?
+The original members of the Lollipop Guild were Jerry Maren, Victor Kilian, and Meinhardt Raabe.
What was the name of the song written by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg for the Lollipop Guild?
+The song written by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg for the Lollipop Guild was not specifically titled, but it is commonly referred to as the "Lollipop Guild" song.
What is the significance of the Lollipop Guild's performance in the Wizard of Oz?
+The Lollipop Guild's performance serves as a welcome to Dorothy and her friends as they enter the Land of Oz, marking a pivotal moment in the film's narrative.
We hope you've enjoyed this journey into the world of the Lollipop Guild! Share your thoughts and favorite memories of this iconic trio in the comments below.