A scarce program for Frank Zappa and the Mothers of Invention engagement at London’s Rainbow Theatre, a legendary show where a crazed fan attacked and seriously injured Zappa.  Wikipedia explains “In December 1971, there were two serious setbacks. While performing at Casino de Montreux in Switzerland, The Mothers’ equipment was destroyed when a flare set off by an audience member started a fire that burned down the casino, as immortalized in Deep Purple’s song “Smoke on the Water.” After a week’s break, The Mothers played at the Rainbow Theatre in London, with rented gear. During the encore, an audience member pushed Zappa off the stage and into the concrete-floored orchestra pit. The band thought Zappa had been killed—he had suffered serious fractures, head trauma and injuries to his back, leg, and neck, as well as a crushed larynx, which ultimately caused his voice to drop a major third after healing. This accident resulted in him using a wheelchair for an extended period, forcing him off the road for over half a year. Upon his return to the stage in September 1972, he was still wearing a leg brace, had a noticeable limp and could not stand for very long while on stage. Zappa noted that one leg healed “shorter than the other” (a reference later found in the lyrics of songs “Zomby Woof” and “Dancin’ Fool”, resulting in chronic back pain. Meanwhile, The Mothers were left in limbo and eventually formed the core of Flo and Eddie’s band as they set out on their own.”

This program for The Mothers’ shows at the Rainbow is filled with photos, interview excerpts, and period ads. In excellent condition, with a barely noticeable soft crease down the middle. 5 3/4″ x 8″.