This is an interesting one.
There’s no place like court. There’s no place like court. There’s no place like court.
Just about a year ago, a blue dress was discovered in a trash bag above the faculty mail slots during a renovation of the Catholic University of America’s Hartke Theater.
It was instantly recognizable as one of six dresses worn by Judy Garland in the classic “The Wizard of Oz.” The faithful Catholic University was prepared to auction off the famous dress for about one million dollars.
The dress had been given to Fr. Gilbert Hartke, who’d founded the drama school at CUA, by actress Mercedes McCambridge decades ago for helping her battle alcoholism. McCambridge co-starred in the movie All The Kings Men. Orson Wells at one time considered her the greatest voice actress in the world. In fact, it is her voice that is the demon’s voice in the classic movie “The Exorcist.”
Fr. Hartke passed away years ago but a niece of his is arguing that the dress was a gift to him personally so it should come to her. CUA is arguing that he’d taken a vow of poverty so whatever gift he received wouldn’t belong to him.
A judge will hold a hearing next week.
Who’da thunk there was a connection between CUA, the Exorcist, and The Wizard of Oz?
May 18, 2022 at 2:32 pm
When I read the title, I thought the post would be about the fact that Dorothy’s outfit is a type of the traditional costume of the BVM: sky blue over white. Which could indicate that Dorothy herself is a type of Mary. Have never read the Wizard of Oz, only seen the movie; perhaps I should read it and see if the whole story is a parable about the fiat mihi.
May 18, 2022 at 5:37 pm
Interesting question.
Let’s ask the Scarecrow. He got his brain at the end of the movie.
May 19, 2022 at 5:37 am
When ever a million dollars is involved you can find a connection if you look hard enough.
May 19, 2022 at 9:38 am
Kristor:
It isn’t.
But it is an entertaining kid’s story.
May 19, 2022 at 10:13 am
If it was given to Fr. Hartke it still wouldn’t belong to CUA, but to the Dominican Province of St. Joseph, of which Hartke was a member.