Joel Grey’s Personal Collection Achieves Strong Results, Attracts 41% New Buyers at Freeman’s | Hindman

Joel Grey took center stage at Freeman’s | Hindman with Master of Ceremonies: The Joel Grey Collection auction, a curated selection of fine art, decorative objects, and treasured memorabilia from the legendary performer’s New York residence. The nearly 100-lot sale sparked enthusiastic bidding—especially for standout pieces from Cabaret, the role that defined Grey’s career, and other celebrated Broadway productions—ultimately achieving a nearly 110% sell-through rate by value. Notably, 41% of buyers were new to the firm—a testament to the enduring legacy and widespread appeal of the beloved stage and screen icon. Together, these items illuminate Mr. Grey’s deep connections to the artistic community and his remarkable impact on the worlds of theater, film, and New York’s creative life.

“I’m delighted that so many people enjoyed participating in the auction of items from my Manhattan home. To see items related to my performances in Cabaret soar well past their estimates was hugely gratifying, and I’m delighted that works from my collection are going on to worthy new homes. I wish their new owners equal joy with these treasured items.” – Joel Grey

“It was an incredible honor to work with Joel and Jennifer Grey on this sale. The collection offered such a rich window into Mr. Grey’s life—from his friendships, his artistry, and his legacy on stage and beyond. The strong results and wide-reaching interest show just how deeply his work continues to resonate.” – Lauren Colavita, Head of Sale, Master of Ceremonies: The Joel Grey Collection

Top Hat Worn by Joel Grey in the 1972 Film Production of Cabaret Sold for $10,240

Cabaret – The Emcee’s Magic Lives On

Forever synonymous with Cabaret, Joel Grey remains the definitive Emcee of both stage and screen. During the sale, memorabilia from his iconic performances soared past expectations. A highlight was an Original Stage Rendering of Cabaret (1968) by Boris Aronson (Lot 4), which realized $17,920—far surpassing its $300–500 estimate. At the center of the auction was the Emcee’s rhinestone-studded retractable top hat from the 1972 film, directed by Bob Fosse. Worn by Grey during the unforgettable “Money Money” duet with Liza Minnelli, the hat (Lot 6) achieved $10,240 and is poised to become a treasured piece of entertainment history. Also drawing strong interest, a tailcoat worn by Grey in the 1987 Broadway revival (Lot 5) sold for $1,280—more than triple its estimate. Similarly, his cane from the stage production of Cabaret (Lot 7) realized $2,048.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT David Hockney, Portrait of Joel Grey | Sold for $19,200 Al Hirschfeld, George M! | Sold for $10,880

Artists as Friends: Portraits and Personal Gifts

Many of the works offered in the auction reflected Joel Grey’s close relationships with some of the most prominent contemporary artists of his time. A standout was David Hockney’s Portrait of Joel Grey (Lot 88), which achieved $19,200. This intimate ink drawing captures not only Mr. Grey’s likeness but the quiet connection between two longtime friends. It is signed and inscribed by Hockney with trademark wit and humility—"This is not too good / for Joel sitting so long / from David." Though undated, the work likely originated during one of Mr. Grey’s frequent visits to London or Paris to reconnect with fellow creatives. Far from a casual sketch, it stands as a testament to enduring friendship, mutual admiration, and the effortless exchange of creativity.

Other portraits further underscored Mr. Grey’s artistic influence and the deep personal bonds he shared with those who captured him. Jack Ceglic’s evocative Portrait of Joel Grey, three-quarter length, in an interior, 1967 (Lot 87) sold for $2,048.

Mr. Grey’s theatrical legacy was also honored in two Al Hirschfeld drawings, both of which drew strong interest. The first, an energetic rendering of Mr. Grey as George M. Cohan in George M! (Lot 13) realized $10,880—five times its low estimate. With Hirschfeld’s signature fluid lines, the portrait celebrates a transformative moment in his career as he embraced the role of the quintessential song-and-dance man. The second drawing, from The Normal Heart (Lot 15), captures Mr. Grey in a powerful production addressing the early days of the HIV/AIDS crisis in New York. It achieved $4,160, doubling its pre-sale estimate.

Joan Miró, Quelques fleurs pour des amis, 1964 | Sold for $21,760

Additional Highlights

· Lot 19 | A Louis Vuitton Monogrammed Canvas Hardsided Trunk with 'JG' Monogram | Sold for $11,520 

· Lot 44 | Duane Michals, John at Nineteen, 2002 | Sold for $3,200

· Lot 70 | Ray Johnson, Portrait of Michael Arlen, 1980 | Sold for $6,400

· Lot 82 | James Francis Gill, Political Prisoner, c.1968 | Sold for $16,640

 · Lot 97 | Joan Miró, Quelques fleurs pour des amis, 1964 | Sold for $21,760

The success of Master of Ceremonies: The Joel Grey Collection reflects the enduring admiration for Mr. Grey’s remarkable career and artistic legacy. From theatrical memorabilia to fine art and personal treasures, the sale attracted strong interest from collectors and theater fans alike—each piece a testament to the cultural impact of an icon still inspiring audiences today.