Ernie Kovacs' "Nairobi Trio" Timpani Mallets....

Description

Ernie Kovacs' "Nairobi Trio" Timpani Mallets. It's one of the most bizarre and oddly hilarious comedy acts in the annals of TV history. There are three "gorillas," forming the "Nairobi Trio," sporting derby hats and long coats as they groove to the strains of "Solfeggio." The middle "ape" smokes a cigar and conducts with a banana, the stage left simian thumps on a piano, and the stage right beast brandishes timpani mallets. As the trio performs their weird, robotic concert, the timpani player regularly and mischievously delivers a 'ba-da-BUM" bongo riff on the center simian's head. However, revenge is sweet at the end of "Solfeggio" as the center ape climactically smashes a vase over the timpani player's skull.
Well, Ernie Kovacs was the center Nairobi member, Edie Adams frequently served as the hirsute pianist, and such Kovacs cronies as Frank Sinatra and Jack Lemmon "went ape" as the tormenting timpani player as Kovacs and the gang performed this legendary skit. This lot features no less than those formidable timpani mallets, 19" long with white rubber heads on white painted sticks. It's touching to realize that Edie Adams saved these props, first employed by Kovacs over half-a-century ago, when he was indeed running amok and pounding his chest in the very wild jungles of early TV. True comedy history, in Very Good condition - and ready for use! From The Ernie Kovacs/Edie Adams Estate Archive.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.