Vintage Classic Radio

Sunday Night Playhouse - Little Women (Louisa May Alcott)

In this week's episode of "Sunday Night Playhouse," brought to you by Vintage Classic Radio, we are thrilled to present a captivating radio play adaptation of "Little Women." This timeless classic, originally broadcasted by Lux Radio Theatre on March 13th, 1950, brings the cherished tale of the March sisters to life. Set against the backdrop of post-Civil War America, "Little Women" follows the endearing stories of Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy as they navigate their journey from childhood to womanhood. Through their adventures, the sisters explore the bonds of family, love, and personal growth, embodying themes that still resonate today.This particular adaptation is notable for featuring four of the original stars from the Metro Goldwyn Mayer 1949 film adaptation, making it a special treat for fans of the story. June Allyson brings her spirited portrayal of Jo, the ambitious and bold sister with dreams of becoming a writer. Peter Lawford adds charm and depth to the character of Laurie, the boy next door who becomes an integral part of the March family's life. Margaret O’Brien delivers a heart-touching performance as Beth, the gentle and kind-hearted sister, while Janet Leigh embodies the role of Meg, the eldest sister navigating her path toward love and responsibility.This Lux Radio Theatre production encapsulates the spirit of Louisa May Alcott's beloved novel, offering listeners a nostalgic journey through the trials, tribulations, and joys of the March sisters. Tune in to Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse" for an evening of warmth, nostalgia, and the timeless lessons of "Little Women."

Saturday Matinee - Our Miss Brooks (Easter Outfit), Mel Blanc Show (Easter Egg Hunt), Redbook Drama

This Easter weekend, Vintage Classic Radio’s “Saturday Matinee” brings a festive lineup starting with “Our Miss Brooks” in “Easter Outfit,” aired on April 17, 1949. Here, Miss Brooks, played by Eve Arden, humorously tries to find a new Easter outfit amidst the quirky antics of her school’s staff and students. The cast includes Gale Gordon as Principal Conklin, Richard Crenna as student Walter Denton, Jane Morgan as Mrs. Davis, and Jeff Chandler as Mr. Boynton, making the Easter theme come alive with laughter.
Next up, “The Mel Blanc Show” episode “Easter Egg Hunt,” from April 8, 1947, features Mel Blanc in a hilarious Easter egg hunt gone awry. Alongside him are Mary Jane Croft as Betty Colby, Joseph Kearns as Mr. Colby, and Earle Ross as the Postman, adding to the Easter fun with their comedic talent.
The night ends with “Redbook Dramas” in “You Have To Have Something” from August 18, 1932. This episode, while not Easter-themed, delves into themes of ambition and the search for meaning, echoing the Easter spirit of hope and renewal.
Together, these shows mix humor, drama, and the essence of Easter, offering a special holiday treat on this “Saturday Matinee.” It’s a perfect way to celebrate Easter weekend with the charm and nostalgia of classic radio.

Friday Night Noir - The Crime Club (Death at 7:10) & The Shadow (Death and the Easter Bonnet)

This Friday on "Friday Night Noir," Vintage Classic Radio takes you back to the golden age of radio with a special Easter-themed presentation that promises suspense and mystery. Our first show of the evening is "The Crime Club," featuring the episode "Death at 7:10," which originally aired on July 3, 1947. In this gripping tale, listeners are taken on a thrilling journey when a seemingly ordinary evening turns deadly at precisely 7:10. The plot thickens with every twist and turn, leading to an unexpected climax that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The cast includes Raymond Edward Johnson, who brilliantly narrates the story, along with a talented ensemble featuring Helen Choate, Barry Hopkins, and Roger DeKoven among others, who bring this chilling mystery to life with their exceptional performances.Following "The Crime Club," we continue our noir night with "The Shadow" radio series, presenting the episode "Death and the Easter Bonnet," originally broadcasted on March 28, 1948. This episode takes a sinister turn when an Easter bonnet, a symbol of joy and renewal, becomes the centerpiece of a dark and deadly mystery. The legendary Orson Welles stars as the enigmatic Shadow, with Agnes Moorehead as his loyal companion, Margot Lane. Together, they navigate through shadows and danger to unveil the truth, demonstrating the timeless appeal of good versus evil. The episode is a masterful blend of suspense and intrigue, showcasing the exceptional writing and production quality that made "The Shadow" a staple of classic radio drama.Join us this Friday for an Easter-themed presentation that pays homage to the dark and mysterious world of noir, featuring two iconic shows that continue to captivate audiences with their timeless tales of mystery and suspense. Don't miss this opportunity to step back in time with Vintage Classic Radio's "Friday Night Noir."

Tuesday Night Detectives - Crime and Peter Chambers (Old Man Krause’s Newstand) & The Lives of Harry Lime (Murder on the Riviera)

In this week's episode of "Tuesday Night Detectives" on Vintage Classic Radio, we dive into the thrilling world of mystery and suspense with two captivating radio dramas from the golden age of radio. First, we revisit "Crime and Peter Chambers," where in the episode titled “Old Man Krause's Newstand,” originally broadcast on May 11th, 1954, listeners are taken on a suspenseful journey with the suave private detective Peter Chambers, voiced by Dane Clark. Chambers investigates the mysterious circumstances surrounding the death of Old Man Krause, a beloved newsstand owner. The investigation unravels a tangled web of secrets and deceit within the community. The episode also stars Bill Zuckert as Lieutenant Parker, along with supporting performances by Elaine Ross and Fred Collins, who adds to the drama as the announcer.
Following this, we present "The Lives of Harry Lime," starring the legendary Orson Welles in the episode “Murder on the Riviera,” which aired on March 23rd, 1952. This episode transports listeners to the glamorous yet dangerous world of the French Riviera, where Harry Lime finds himself embroiled in a deadly game of cat and mouse involving murder, stolen jewels, and a quest for vengeance. Orson Welles delivers a riveting performance as the charismatic con artist Harry Lime, with additional noteworthy performances by Sebastian Cabot and Barbara Couper, who bring to life the intriguing characters that cross paths with Lime in this high-stakes adventure.
Join us as we explore these tales of intrigue and mystery, featuring some of the most memorable characters and performances from the golden age of radio drama. Whether it's the gritty streets of New York with Peter Chambers or the sun-drenched shores of the Riviera with Harry Lime, suspense and surprise await at every turn.

Sunday Night Playhouse - Peg ’O My Heart (Marion Davies)

In this week's enthralling episode of "Sunday Night Playhouse" brought to you by Vintage Classic Radio, we delve into the golden age of radio with the timeless broadcast of "Peg O' My Heart," originally aired by Lux Radio Theatre on November 29th, 1937. This captivating radio play stars Marion Davies in the lead role, with Brian Aherne alongside her, in a story that has charmed audiences for decades.
"Peg O' My Heart" tells the tale of Peg, a young and spirited Irish woman who inherits a fortune from her late family in America. The catch? She must leave her beloved Ireland to live with her new aristocratic relatives in England. Amidst a backdrop of cultural clashes and societal expectations, Peg's indomitable spirit and pure heart lead her on an adventure of self-discovery, love, and the true meaning of family. Marion Davies shines as the effervescent Peg, bringing to life the character's warmth, humor, and resilience. Brian Aherne's portrayal of Jerry, Peg's charming and supportive love interest, complements Davies' performance perfectly, making for an unforgettable radio experience.
This episode of "Peg O' My Heart" on Lux Radio Theatre not only showcases the exceptional talents of Davies and Aherne but also highlights the radio play's ability to captivate and move its audience through powerful storytelling and stellar performances. As we present this classic piece on Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse," listeners are invited to step back in time and experience the magic and nostalgia of one of the most beloved radio plays of the 1930s. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of "Peg O' My Heart," a story of love, courage, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Saturday Matinee - Aldrich Family (Legal Trouble), Appointment for Love, Jack Benny (Easter Parade)

In this week's edition of Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee," we begin with "The Aldrich Family" in the episode titled "Legal Trouble," which first aired on March 11, 1943. This episode finds young Henry Aldrich embroiled in a comedic series of misunderstandings that lead to a humorous encounter with the legal system. The charm of the episode lies in Henry's naive attempts to navigate through his troubles, often making situations hilariously worse. The cast features Ezra Stone as the lovable Henry Aldrich, with House Jameson and Katharine Raht playing his ever-patient parents, Sam and Alice Aldrich. The episode is peppered with the talents of Jackie Kelk as Henry's best friend, Homer Brown, and Leona Powers as his teacher, Miss Eggleston, adding to the fun.
Following "The Aldrich Family," we dive into the "Screen Director's Playhouse" for "Appointment for Love," originally broadcasted on August 26, 1949. This episode brings to life a romantic comedy where a successful playwright, portrayed by Charles Boyer, marries a no-nonsense doctor played by Margaret Sullavan. Their unconventional marriage, devoid of the usual romantic trappings, leads to amusing and touching attempts to navigate their love for each other. Directed with flair, this episode showcases the director's unique voice, making it a highlight of the evening.
Lastly, we'll enjoy "The Jack Benny Program" in the "Easter Parade" episode, which aired on April 10, 1955. As we gear up for Easter next weekend, this episode captures the Easter festivities with Jack Benny's signature comedic style, as he and the cast prepare for the annual Easter parade. The humor escalates with Jack's vain attempts to outshine his cast in terms of fashion, resulting in a series of comic mishaps. Jack Benny leads the charge with his unparalleled wit, supported by Mary Livingstone, Eddie Anderson as Rochester, Dennis Day, and Don Wilson, creating an unforgettable Easter-themed spectacle.
This Saturday's "Saturday Matinee" promises a delightful journey through comedy, romance, and seasonal celebration, featuring episodes from "The Aldrich Family," "Screen Director's Playhouse," and "The Jack Benny Program." Each show brings its unique flavor to the fore, from the innocent mishaps of Henry Aldrich to the romantic entanglements in "Appointment for Love," and concluding with the festive hilarity of "Easter Parade" on "The Jack Benny Program" as we eagerly anticipate the coming Easter weekend. Together, they offer a rich tapestry of entertainment that encapsulates the golden era of radio.

Friday Night Noir - Suspense (The Dunwich Horror) & CBS Radio Mystery Theater (Trilby)

Welcome to this Friday's "Friday Night Noir" on Vintage Classic Radio, where we dive deep into the shadows of classic suspense and mystery.
Our journey through the darkened corridors of the past begins with the "Suspense" radio show and the chilling episode "The Dunwich Horror," originally aired on November 1, 1945. This adaptation brings to life H.P. Lovecraft's tale of unnameable horror in the secluded town of Dunwich, Massachusetts. The story unfolds around Wilbur Whateley, a sinister character born into a family with a mysterious past, and his quest to acquire an ancient and powerful tome, The Necronomicon. As strange events plague the town, the locals grow increasingly terrified of the Whateley family and the indescribable entity lurking on their property. The episode's cast featured Ronald Colman as the Narrator, adding a layer of gravitas and suspense to the story. His performance, alongside a talented ensemble cast, brought the eerie tale to life, making it a memorable entry in the "Suspense" catalog.
Following "The Dunwich Horror," our noir night continues with a journey into the world of the "CBS Radio Mystery Theater" and the episode titled "Trilby," which first enthralled listeners on September 30, 1977. "Trilby" is based on the novel by George du Maurier, where a young and impressionable artist's model, Trilby O'Ferrall, falls under the spell of the enigmatic Svengali, a man with the mysterious power to control minds. Set against the backdrop of Bohemian Paris, this tale of manipulation, obsession, and the power of the human will captivates with its exploration of artistic life and the dark influences that can drive it. The episode featured a stellar cast, including Mercedes McCambridge as Trilby and Ian Martin as Svengali, whose performances breathed life into these complex characters and their haunting narrative.
Both episodes are exemplary instances of their respective series' ability to capture the imagination and hold listeners in rapt attention with stories of intrigue, mystery, and the supernatural. Join us this Friday on Vintage Classic Radio for "Friday Night Noir" to experience these masterpieces of the airwaves once again.

Tuesday Night Detectives - Let George Do It (Roundabout Murders) & Casey, Crime Photographer (Fog)

In this week's thrilling episode of "Tuesday Night Detectives" on Vintage Classic Radio, we dive into the shadowy corners of mystery and crime, starting with "Let George Do It" in the episode titled "The Roundabout Murder". Originally aired on March 7th, 1949, the story follows the astute detective George Valentine as he unwinds the complex web surrounding a murder that's as puzzling as it is deadly. With the help of his loyal assistant, Claire Brooks, often called Brooksie, and the occasional input from Lieutenant Riley, Valentine tackles this case with his usual mix of cunning and bravado. Bob Bailey stars as the unflappable George Valentine, with Virginia Gregg lending her voice to Brooksie, and Wally Maher portraying the ever-skeptical Lieutenant Riley.
Following that, we immerse ourselves in the murky atmosphere of "Casey, Crime Photographer" in the episode entitled "Fog", which first captivated audiences on March 11th, 1948. This episode sees the intrepid Casey stumbling upon a crime scene shrouded in fog, where visibility is as scarce as clues. With his trusty camera and the assistance of the sharp-witted Ann Williams, Casey delves into the mystery, proving once again why he's not just a photographer but a detective at heart. Staats Cotsworth stars as the eponymous Casey, with Jan Miner playing the resourceful Ann Williams, and John Gibson as Ethelbert, the bartender who often provides more than just drinks.
Together, these episodes offer a glimpse into the golden age of radio, where every shadow hid a secret and every voice told a story. Join us as we relive these classic tales of intrigue and investigation.

Sunday Night Playhouse - Is Zat So (James Cagney)

This week on Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse," we delve into the golden era of radio drama with the timeless classic, "Is Zat So," originally aired by Lux Radio Theatre on September 7th, 1936. In this compelling narrative, listeners are treated to a rich tapestry of humor, intrigue, and human emotion, making it a perfect selection for those who cherish the art of storytelling.
"Is Zat So" is set against the backdrop of the Roaring Twenties, encapsulating the era's unique blend of optimism and upheaval. The story centers on Hap Smith, portrayed by James Cagney, a charismatic and quick-witted con man whose schemes are as elaborate as they are entertaining. Hap's life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with McAllister, a role brought to life with wit and depth by Robert Benchley. Together, they embark on a series of misadventures that challenge their wits and test their friendship.
As the plot unfolds, Hap and McAllister find themselves entangled in a complex scheme involving Robert Parker, a wealthy but troubled businessman played by Lionel Barrymore, and George MacFarland, Parker's cunning adversary, portrayed by Frank Morgan. Central to the drama is Mary Brennan, played by Rosemary DeCamp, whose relationship with the protagonists adds a layer of emotional complexity to the story. The ensemble is rounded out by Louise Beavers as Ella, who provides moments of humor and warmth, and Thomas Mitchell as Jim Conover, whose involvement deepens the intrigue.
"Is Zat So" is a captivating exploration of friendship, loyalty, and redemption, set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world. The play's sharp dialogue, engaging plot twists, and rich character development make it a standout piece of radio drama.
As Vintage Classic Radio presents this historic broadcast, we invite listeners to immerse themselves in the captivating world of "Is Zat So." Join us for this week's "Sunday Night Playhouse" to experience the magic of Lux Radio Theatre's storytelling, brought to life by a cast of legendary performers. It's an evening of classic entertainment that promises to engage, entertain, and evoke the spirit of a bygone era.

Saturday Matinee - Family Doctor, Abbott & Costello, Sally musical (Jerome Kern)

This Saturday's "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio begins with the "Family Doctor" episode titled "False Witness," originally broadcasted in 1932. In this gripping episode, Dr. Grant Adams, affectionately known as the family doctor in the small town of Cedarton, finds himself embroiled in a tense situation when he must navigate the murky waters of local gossip and a wrongful accusation that threatens the harmony of the community. The cast features the calming presence of Grant Adams as the Family Doctor, showcasing his wisdom and dedication to truth and justice amidst the small-town dynamics.
Following the contemplative drama, we lighten the mood with the "Abbott and Costello Show," presenting the hilariously chaotic episode "The Missing Script," which first aired on March 9, 1944. In this episode, comedy duo Bud Abbott and Lou Costello are in a frenzy over a missing script right before their broadcast, leading to a series of slapstick misadventures and misunderstandings. The episode is made even more memorable by the guest appearances of Blondie and Dagwood, adding a delightful crossover flair. The cast is headlined by Bud Abbott as himself, Lou Costello as himself, with Penny Singleton as Blondie, and Arthur Lake as Dagwood, among others, providing a rollercoaster of laughter and timeless comedy.
The finale of our matinee is the "Railroad Hour" featuring the musical "Sally," originally aired on December 13, 1948. This enchanting episode takes listeners on a melodious journey with songs by Jerome Kern, telling the story of Sally, a dishwasher who dreams of a better life and finds herself masquerading as a famous Russian ballerina. The show is a splendid mix of comedy, romance, and heartwarming melodies. The cast showcases the talents of Gordon MacRae in the lead role, with support from a talented ensemble that brings this charming musical to life.
Together, these episodes from "Family Doctor," "Abbott and Costello Show," and "Railroad Hour" offer a diverse palette of entertainment, from the thoughtful dilemmas of small-town life and uproarious comedy to the dreamy tunes of Broadway, ensuring a captivating afternoon for all listeners of Vintage Classic Radio.