Vintage Classic Radio

Saturday Matinee - Blondie & Dagwood (Three Weeks Vacation), Archie Andrews (Drugstore Mixup) & Texaco Star Theater (Gordon Macrae)

This Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee," we begin with the "Blondie" radio show featuring the episode “Three Weeks Vacation,” originally broadcast on July 27, 1947. Stemming from the beloved comic strip created by Chic Young, which first appeared in 1930, "Blondie" captures the humorous dynamics of domestic life. In this episode, Blondie and Dagwood Bumstead navigate the comedic chaos of planning a much-needed vacation, which becomes a series of humorous mishaps, perfectly capturing the essence of the comic strip. Penny Singleton stars as Blondie, with Arthur Lake as her ever-bumbling husband Dagwood.
Following "Blondie," we'll tune into the "Archie Andrews" radio show for the episode "Drugstore Mixup," which aired on July 27, 1946. Originating from the popular comic strip by Bob Montana, this episode dives into a typical day in the life of Archie Andrews and his friends, filled with teenage antics and confusions. The mix-up at the local drugstore leads to a cascade of comical misunderstandings, showcasing the charming awkwardness of Archie's life. Bob Hastings voices the titular character, with Harlan Stone as Jughead and Gloria Mann as Veronica.
Our matinee concludes with the "Texaco Star Theater" episode from April 8, 1948, hosted by the legendary Milton Berle and featuring guest stars Gordon MacRae and Evelyn Knight. This episode of the musical variety show captures the essence of post-war American entertainment with its unique blend of humor, music, and celebrity performances. Gordon MacRae and Evelyn Knight charm the audience with their vocal talents, delivering performances that range from romantic duets to lively solos, all under the witty and dynamic guidance of Milton Berle, making it a delightful and engaging showcase of the era’s entertainment.
Join us this Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio for a journey back to the golden age of radio, where comic strip characters come to life and captivating musical performances unfold, all brought to you through the magic of radio storytelling.

Friday Night Noir - The Woman in the Window (Joan Bennett) & Murder, My Sweet (Raymond Chandler)

Tune in to Vintage Classic Radio this week on "Friday Night Noir" for a captivating double feature from "Hollywood Star Time".
First up, "The Woman in the Window", initially aired on November 16th, 1946, and sponsored by Frigidaire, presents a gripping tale of suspense. Starring Herbert Marshall and Joan Bennett, the drama centers around a psychology professor whose encounter with a bewitching woman spirals into a complex murder mystery. Edward G. Robinson enhances the intrigue as the sharp detective delving into the depths of the crime. Herbert Marshall also serves as the host, adding a unique continuity to the evening’s programming.
Following that, "Murder, My Sweet", originally broadcast on June 8th, 1946, dives into the shadowy world of film noir. Dick Powell portrays the iconic private detective Philip Marlowe, who becomes entangled in a dense plot of deceit while searching for a missing woman. Mary Astor stars as the elusive and alluring Mrs. Grayle, with Mike Mazurki delivering a memorable performance as Moose Malloy.
Join us for a night of mystery and classic drama, showcasing the best of vintage radio storytelling, perfect for noir enthusiasts and lovers of intricate, shadow-laden narratives.

Tuesday Night Detectives - Box 13 (The Philanthropist) & Dick Tracy (Black Pearl of Osirus)

This week on “Tuesday Night Detectives” on Vintage Classic Radio, we delve into two thrilling episodes from the golden age of radio dramas.
First up, "Box 13" features Hollywood's Alan Ladd in “The Philanthropist,” originally aired on January 30, 1949. In this intriguing episode, Dan Holiday, an author and adventurer who uses newspaper ads to find inspiration for his stories, receives a letter prompting him to investigate a seemingly benevolent man with a dark secret. Alan Ladd stars as Dan Holiday, with Sylvia Picker as his resourceful secretary Suzy, and Edmund MacDonald playing the role of the suspicious philanthropist. This gripping tale of mystery and deceit is not to be missed.
Following that, we bring you “Dick Tracy” in the episode titled “Black Pearl of Osirus,” which first broadcast on February 8, 1938. The fearless detective Dick Tracy, portrayed by Bob Burlen, embarks on an international adventure involving the theft of the mythical Black Pearl of Osirus. Tracy’s quest to retrieve the stolen artifact sees him clash with a diverse cast of characters, including Junior, played by Jackie Kelk, and the villainous Moloch, voiced by Ned Wever. Tune in as Dick Tracy navigates through perilous traps and deceitful alliances to secure the ancient treasure.
Together, these episodes from "Box 13" and "Dick Tracy" offer a nostalgic trip into the thrilling escapades and cunning mysteries that captivated listeners in the era of classic radio dramas. Join us for a night of intrigue and adventure on “Tuesday Night Detectives.”

Sunday Night Playhouse - The House of Mirth (Edith Wharton)

Immerse yourself in the opulent yet tragic world of Edith Wharton's "The House of Mirth," brought to you by Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse."
This captivating radio adaptation, originally presented by The Theater Guild on the Air and sponsored by US Steel, first graced the Broadway stage at the Guild Theatre on December 14, 1952. This week, journey back in time to explore the rise and fall of Lily Bart, a woman caught in the whirlwind of New York's high society at the turn of the century. As Lily navigates through social scandals and financial precarity, her pursuit of happiness leads to unforeseen consequences. This production features a stellar cast including Joan Fontaine delivering a poignant performance as Lily Bart, Sidney Greenstreet's commanding presence as Gus Trenor, and Martha Sleeper's compelling portrayal of Judy Trenor. Franchot Tone joins as Laurence Selden, adding depth and nuance to this complex tale. Also featuring Anne Revere as Bertha Dorset, each member of the cast adds emotional gravity to this classic drama.
Tune in to Vintage Classic Radio this Sunday evening to experience the poignant elegance and dramatic intricacies of "The House of Mirth."

Friday Night Noir - Zero Hour (Larceny on the Lake) & The Whistler (The Alibi)

This Friday on Vintage Classic Radio, immerse yourself in the shadowy world of "Friday Night Noir."
Our evening begins with the “Zero Hour" radio show, featuring the master of suspense, Rod Serling, in the episode titled "Larceny on the Lake." Originally aired on July 4, 1974, this riveting story takes listeners to a seemingly peaceful lakeside, where tranquility is quickly overshadowed by a cunning theft. Rod Serling stars as the shrewd Detective John Marlowe who meticulously unravels the web of deceit among the wealthy vacationers. The cast includes the talented Anne Baxter as Helen Vaughn, a woman with secrets to hide; John McIntire as Charles Dayton, an affluent individual with more than just money at stake; and Agnes Moorehead as Eleanor Brewster, whose wit and insights are crucial to the plot's unraveling. This episode is celebrated for its intricate plot and Serling's iconic storytelling prowess.
Following that, we shift to a tale of deception and murder with "The Whistler" in the episode titled "The Alibi." First broadcast on October 25, 1942, this episode ensnares the listener in a web of lies and deceit. The story centers on a man who crafts the perfect alibi to cover a nefarious act, only to find himself ensnared in an unexpected twist of fate. The Whistler, known for his eerie narration and dark commentary, guides us through this chilling narrative. The cast features Bill Forman as the omnipresent Whistler, with supporting performances by Joseph Kearns as the scheming protagonist, and Hans Conried and Betty Lou Gerson in pivotal roles that add depth and intrigue to the unfolding drama.
Join us this Friday on Vintage Classic Radio for a night of intrigue and suspense with these two classic noir tales.

Tuesday Night Detectives - Night Beat (Doctor’s Secret) & Gang Busters (The Case of the Red Evening Dress)

This week on “Tuesday Night Detectives” from Vintage Classic Radio, we’re featuring two intriguing tales from the archives of radio’s most captivating detective shows.
We begin with “Night Beat,” where journalist Randy Stone, voiced by Frank Lovejoy, uncovers chilling truths in the episode titled “Doctor's Secret,” originally aired on August 21st, 1950. In this suspense-filled episode, Stone investigates a doctor whose past conceals a mysterious secret that threatens his career and life. The cast includes William Conrad as Police Sergeant Graham and Lurene Tuttle as Dr. Helen Markham, who both help Stone untangle a web of deceit and redemption.
Following that, we switch gears to “Gang Busters” with the episode “The Case of the Red Evening Dress,” first broadcast on September 22nd, 1945. This fast-paced narrative follows law enforcement’s hunt for a clever jewel thief who leaves a red evening dress at every crime scene as a mocking signature. Richard Widmark stars as Detective Tom Douglas, who leads the pursuit with grit and determination. Betty Lou Gerson plays the elusive thief, while Hanley Stafford rounds out the cast as the Chief of Police, guiding the intricate investigation through unexpected twists.
Together, these episodes from “Night Beat” and “Gang Busters” plunge listeners into the heart of mid-20th-century detective radio drama, showcasing the era's compelling storytelling and vivid character portrayals. Don't miss this nostalgic journey into the shadowy corners of crime and mystery on “Tuesday Night Detectives.”

Sunday Night Playhouse - Fahrenheit 451 (Ray Bradbury)

This Sunday, Vintage Classic Radio revives a true gem from its archives with the "Sunday Night Playhouse" presentation of "Fahrenheit 451."
Originally aired on March 4, 1971, on CBC Stage, this production stands out for its remarkable fidelity to Ray Bradbury's groundbreaking novel, despite the constraints of a one-hour radio drama format. Adapted by Otto Lowy and produced by CBC Radio in Vancouver, the drama captivates with its minimalistic approach, relying on strong performances and a focus on the narrative's powerful themes rather than elaborate sound effects.
"Fahrenheit 451" explores a dystopian future where books are banned and "firemen" are employed to burn any discovered literature. The plot centers around Montag, portrayed by Neal Denard, a fireman who becomes disillusioned with the societal norm of censorship and destruction. As he encounters clandestine hoards of books and engages with the revolutionary ideas contained within, Montag's transformation is compelling and thought-provoking. The cast includes Alan Scarfe as the authoritarian Fire Captain, alongside notable performances by Linda Sorenson, Sharon Kurt, Peter Hobwerth, Dorothy Davies, Merv Componi, Eric Walston, and Anni Scarfe. Each actor contributes to a rich tapestry of voices that bring Bradbury’s chilling vision to life, making this episode a must-listen for both long-time fans and newcomers to the tale.
Join us for a riveting hour that explores the enduring power of books and the spirit of rebellion against conformity.

Saturday Matinee - The Aldrich Family (Kathleen’s Dinner), Fibber McGee and Molly (McGee’s Hamburger Joint) & Miss Liberty (Irving Berlin)

This Saturday's "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio starts with "The Aldrich Family" in an episode titled “Kathleen's Dinner," originally aired on January 20, 1949. In this comedic episode, young Henry Aldrich finds himself in a humorous mix-up when he tries to impress his girlfriend Kathleen by arranging a dinner, only for everything that can go wrong to do so. The episode stars Ezra Stone as Henry Aldrich, Jackie Kelk as Homer Brown, Katharine Raht as Mrs. Aldrich, and House Jameson as Mr. Aldrich.
Following that, we tune into "Fibber McGee and Molly" for the episode "McGee's Hamburger Joint," which first entertained audiences on March 7, 1939. The show features the lovable and bumbling Fibber McGee, who decides to open a hamburger joint, leading to a series of comedic misadventures. The episode is brought to life by Jim Jordan as Fibber McGee, Marian Jordan as Molly McGee, and a supporting cast that adds to the hilarity of McGee’s entrepreneurial escapades.
The final show for the matinee is "The Railroad Hour," presenting the musical episode "Miss Liberty," with music by Irving Berlin, originally broadcast on February 9, 1953. This musical play stars Gordon McRae, who takes listeners on a melodious journey through the story of "Miss Liberty," weaving a narrative filled with romantic and patriotic tunes. The cast also features Dorothy Warenskjold as the leading lady, adding charm and grace to this musical episode.
Each show from this trio promises to deliver the classic entertainment that Vintage Classic Radio is known for, ensuring a delightful Saturday listening experience.

Friday Night Noir - The Hall of Fantasy (The Night the Fog Came) & Mysterious Traveler (S.O.S.)

Welcome to another thrilling episode of "Friday Night Noir" on Vintage Classic Radio. This Friday, we delve into the eerie and mysterious with two captivating shows from the golden age of radio drama.
Our first feature is from “The Hall of Fantasy” with the episode titled “The Night the Fog Came,” which first aired on March 23, 1953. In this chilling tale, listeners are taken to a small, seemingly tranquil town that is enveloped by a mysterious, creeping fog. But this is no ordinary fog—it brings with it an inexplicable horror that preys upon the townspeople, leaving the survivors desperate for answers and a way to escape their fog-bound nightmare. The episode stars Richard Thorne and Carl Greyson, who also serve as narrators, adding to the gripping atmosphere of the unfolding horror.
Following that, we turn to “The Mysterious Traveler” radio series with the episode "S.O.S.," originally broadcast on May 2, 1950. This suspense-filled story takes us aboard a luxury yacht in the Atlantic where a relaxing voyage turns into a fight for survival. The yacht’s occupants start receiving mysterious distress signals from a ship that supposedly sank years earlier. The episode features the voice of Maurice Tarplin as the Mysterious Traveler, guiding us through the tense and eerie narrative with his iconic, soothing yet ominous tone.
Both episodes are exemplary showcases of the power of sound to create vivid, immersive worlds that captivate and terrify, making them timeless pieces of radio history. Tune in this Friday for an unforgettable night of mystery and suspense on Vintage Classic Radio.

Tuesday Night Detectives - Let George Do It (Murder on Vacation) & Pat Novak for Hire (Rubin Callaway’s Pictures)

This week on "Tuesday Night Detectives" on Vintage Classic Radio, dive into thrilling mysteries from the golden age of radio.
Our first feature is "Let George Do It," with the episode “Murder on Vacation," originally aired on August 27, 1951. Starring the talented Bob Bailey as the smooth-talking private detective George Valentine, the episode takes listeners to a picturesque yet mysterious mountain resort where relaxation turns to dread. Valentine finds himself entangled in a tangled skein of lies and murder when a seemingly accidental death reveals sinister undertones. Joining Bailey, Virginia Gregg voices the sharp and intuitive Brooksy, George's trusted assistant, while Ken Christy and Lillian Buyeff provide stellar support as local characters deeply woven into the plot's twisty turns.
Following that, we continue with “Pat Novak for Hire,” featuring Jack Webb in the episode titled “Rubin Callaway's Pictures,” which first hit the airwaves on March 13, 1949. In this gripping tale set against the foggy backdrop of San Francisco's waterfront, Jack Webb's portrayal of Pat Novak shimmers with gritty realism. Novak stumbles upon a dangerous game of blackmail and murder when hired to retrieve a set of compromising photos. As the stakes escalate, the lines blur between friend and foe. Supporting Webb, Tudor Owen brings to life Jocko Madigan, Novak's whimsically erudite sidekick, while Raymond Burr adds a layer of intensity as Inspector Hellman, a police detective with a complicated relationship with Novak.
Both episodes exemplify the captivating storytelling and complex characters that define the era's detective shows, making for a suspenseful evening on Vintage Classic Radio. Tune in and let the intrigue of the past whisk you away to a world of shadowy motives and mysterious crimes.