MGM acquired a large number of little people, primarily through the efforts of Leo Singer, the proprietor of Singer's Midgets, to cast the iconic Munchkin characters in the 1939 film, The Wizard of Oz.
The sheer number of little people required for the elaborate Munchkinland scenes was unprecedented for its time. To achieve this, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) largely relied on Leo Singer, who was renowned for his organized troupe and acted as a key agent in facilitating the recruitment of most of the dwarfs hired for the production.
Reports from the era, including a Daily Variety news story from August 17, 1938, indicated that 124 dwarfs had been signed for these roles. Modern historical accounts generally place the final number of little people involved in the film as either 122 or 124, making it one of the largest assemblies of little people in cinematic history.
The Casting Process
The centralized recruitment approach, leveraging an existing network like Singer's Midgets, was crucial for assembling such a significant cast. Many of the performers already possessed experience in various forms of entertainment, such as vaudeville, circuses, or other traveling shows. This background meant they were accustomed to performing and traveling for work, simplifying the logistics for the studio.
Key Aspects of Munchkin Casting
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Recruiter | Leo Singer, proprietor of Singer's Midgets |
| Number of Actors | Between 122 and 124 little people |
| Acquisition Method | Majority acquired through Singer's established network and personal connections |
| Historical Note | A 1938 Daily Variety news report confirmed 124 signings |
| Significance | Essential for creating the vibrant and memorable world of Munchkinland |
Impact of the Munchkin Cast
The vibrant and numerous Munchkin characters were fundamental to the film's iconic opening sequence in Oz. Their collective presence helped to immediately establish the whimsical, fantastical, and visually rich world that Dorothy had entered. The dedicated performance of these actors contributed significantly to the movie's enduring legacy as a timeless classic of American cinema, making a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.
