Vintage Classic Radio

Sunday Night Playhouse - Ceiling Zero (James Cagney)

In this week's edition of the "Sunday Night Playhouse," presented by Vintage Classic Radio, we're thrilled to bring you a captivating broadcast of the radio play "Ceiling Zero," originally aired by Lux Radio Theatre on February 27, 1939. Dive into the golden age of radio with this classic tale that captures the heart and soul of aviation adventures. "Ceiling Zero" features an outstanding ensemble cast led by the incomparable James Cagney, alongside the versatile Ralph Bellamy. Adding a unique touch to the lineup, James Cagney's sister joins the cast, showcasing the Cagney family's broad range of talents. This radio adaptation brings to life the high-flying drama and camaraderie of pilots, navigating through challenges with wit, courage, and unbreakable bonds. The episode synopsis unfolds with the story of Dizzy Davis, a daring and somewhat reckless pilot, portrayed by James Cagney. His best friend, Jake Lee, played by Ralph Bellamy, runs the aviation company where Dizzy's antics often cause a stir. The plot thickens as professional and personal challenges arise, testing the limits of friendship, loyalty, and the spirit of aviation. The cast also includes notable names such as Stuart Erwin, Julie Bishop, who plays the love interest, and the talented Grace Cagney, James Cagney's sister, contributing to the dynamic and emotional depth of the play. As "Ceiling Zero" takes you on a journey through the clouds, the performances of these actors bring an unparalleled authenticity and emotion to the radio waves, making this episode a must-listen for enthusiasts of classic radio plays and timeless stories of adventure and friendship. Tune into Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse" for an unforgettable experience that will soar beyond your expectations.

Saturday Matinee - Gildersleeve, Burns & Allen, Orange Blossoms Railroad Hour

This Saturday's "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio will kick off with "The Great Gildersleeve,” where the episode "Selling the Drugstore" from February 22nd, 1942, takes us on a humorous journey with Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, a character spun off from "Fibber McGee and Molly." In this episode, Gildersleeve contemplates selling the drugstore he's come to own, leading to a series of comedic events and moral dilemmas. The cast features Harold Peary as Gildersleeve, Walter Tetley as Leroy, Lillian Randolph as Birdie, Earle Ross as Judge Hooker, and Richard LeGrand as Mr. Peavey, among others, contributing to the show's unique blend of humor and heartfelt moments.
Following that, we'll enjoy "The Burns and Allen Show" in the episode "Jack Benny in the Beauty Shop," originally broadcasted on November 2nd, 1943. This episode showcases the unmatched chemistry of George Burns and Gracie Allen in a hilarious mix-up involving Jack Benny at a beauty shop, leading to a flurry of misunderstandings and witty banter. The episode stars George Burns and Gracie Allen themselves, with Jack Benny playing his own notoriously stingy persona, alongside regulars like Bill Goodwin, the announcer, and musicians like Meredith Willson.
To round out our matinee, "The Railroad Hour" presents the musical episode “Orange Blossoms” from February 11th, 1952. This production is a delightful adaptation of the operetta by Victor Herbert, telling a romantic and slightly comedic tale set against the backdrop of the French Riviera. The episode stars Gordon MacRae, bringing his vocal talents to the fore as the lead, with support from Lucille Norman, adding charm and depth to the musical numbers and narrative.
Each show from our lineup offers a unique glimpse into the golden age of radio, from the comedic antics of beloved characters in "The Great Gildersleeve" and "The Burns and Allen Show" to the melodious romance of "The Railroad Hour." Together, they create a Saturday matinee that promises laughter, music, and a touch of nostalgia.

Friday Night Noir - Suspense (The After Dinner Story) & Crime Club (The Sun is a Witness)

This Friday's "Friday Night Noir" on Vintage Classic Radio takes you back to the golden age of radio with two thrilling episodes. We begin the evening with the "Suspense" radio show, presenting the gripping episode "The After Dinner Story," which originally aired on October 26th, 1943. In this chilling narrative, listeners find themselves ensnared in a tale of mystery and revenge, as a wealthy man recounts a harrowing experience that leads to an unexpected and sinister conclusion. The episode showcases the talents of Orson Welles in the lead role, supported by a stellar cast including William Johnstone, Hans Conried, and Agnes Moorehead, under the skilled direction of William Spier. The suspenseful atmosphere is further enhanced by the music of Bernard Herrmann, making "The After Dinner Story" a classic example of radio drama at its finest.
Following that, we dive into the dark and deceptive world of "Crime Club" with the episode "The Sun is a Witness," which first aired on April 3rd, 1947. This episode unfolds a complex mystery where murder casts a long shadow over a seemingly peaceful community. The plot thickens as the detective untangles a web of alibis and motives to reveal the truth hidden beneath the surface. The episode features a compelling cast, including Raymond Edward Johnson in the role of the detective, with support from Berry Kroeger, Helen Shields, and Ted Osborne. Directed by Roger Bower and with music by Cy Feuer, "The Sun is a Witness" offers a riveting journey into the heart of crime and investigation, embodying the essence of the Crime Club series.
Join us for an unforgettable evening of intrigue and suspense on "Friday Night Noir," only on Vintage Classic Radio. Experience the magic of the past as these timeless stories unfold, featuring the incredible talents that defined an era of entertainment.

Tuesday Night Detectives - Philip Marlowe (The Dancing Hands) & Nero Wolfe (The Brave Rabbit)

In this week's episode of "Tuesday Night Detectives" on Vintage Classic Radio, we delve into the gripping world of "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe" with the thrilling installment, "The Dancing Hands," originally aired on March 19th, 1949. Set against the backdrop of 1940s Los Angeles, private detective Philip Marlowe finds himself embroiled in a perplexing case involving a renowned pianist, a missing manuscript, and a trail of deceit. As Marlowe navigates the seedy underbelly of the city, he encounters a cast of characters including the enigmatic pianist, a seductive femme fatale, and a ruthless gangster, each with their own hidden agendas. With his quick wit and keen instincts, Marlowe races against time to unravel the mystery before it's too late. The episode features an ensemble cast including Gerald Mohr as Philip Marlowe, Cathy Lewis as Helen Asher, and Jack Kruschen as Lt. Karger.
Following Marlowe's escapades, the podcast takes listeners on a journey to another era with "The New Adventures of Nero Wolfe" in the episode, "The Brave Rabbit," originally broadcasted on December 1st, 1950. In this installment, the brilliant and eccentric detective Nero Wolfe is confronted with a perplexing case involving a missing heirloom, a daring heist, and a cunning adversary. With his trusty assistant Archie Goodwin by his side, Wolfe employs his unparalleled intellect and deductive reasoning to crack the case wide open. As the investigation unfolds, secrets are revealed, alliances are tested, and the true nature of bravery is put to the ultimate test. The episode boasts a stellar cast including Sydney Greenstreet as Nero Wolfe, Lawrence Dobkin as Archie Goodwin, and Harry Bartell as Saul Panzer. Tune in to "Tuesday Night Detectives" for a double dose of classic mystery and intrigue that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Sunday Night Playhouse - Mr. and Mrs. Smith (Carole Lombard & Bob Hope)

The play is the story of a young married couple who suddenly discover, to their own amazement, that they aren't legally married at all. Carole Lombard and Bob Hope carry on from there, with Carole in the same part she played in the RKO picture, and Bob Hope as her lawyer husband.
June 9th 1941

Saturday Matinee - The Aldrich Family (Valentine’s Day), Jack Benny (NY Symphony Plays Benny’s Song), Abbott & Costello Show (Opening a Marriage Burea...

This week's "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio kicks off with "The Aldrich Family" in the episode titled "Valentine's Day", which first delighted audiences on February 11th, 1943. In this heartwarming episode, the Aldrich household is abuzz with the excitement and mixups of Valentine's Day, showcasing the comedic and often poignant adventures of teenager Henry Aldrich and his family. The episode stars Ezra Stone as the well-meaning but often misguided Henry, with House Jameson and Katharine Raht playing his ever-patient parents, Sam and Alice Aldrich. The cast also includes Jackie Kelk as Henry's loyal friend Homer Brown, and Leona Powers, Norma Nelson, and Charita Bauer in supporting roles, bringing the small town of Centerville to life with their charming and relatable performances.
We then dive into "The Jack Benny Program" and the episode where Jack dreams that the New York Symphony plays his song. This episode originally aired on February 17th, 1952. This episode takes listeners on a comedic journey through Jack Benny's dream where the New York Symphony Orchestra performs one of his songs, leading to a series of funny misunderstandings and Benny's trademark vanity and stinginess. Jack Benny leads the cast as himself, supported by Mary Livingstone, Eddie "Rochester" Anderson, Dennis Day, Phil Harris and Don Wilson, each adding their unique flair to the show's blend of comedy and music.
The "Saturday Matinee" closes with "The Abbott and Costello Show" in the episode "Opening a Marriage Bureau", originally broadcasted on April 21st, 1948. This episode finds the comedic duo of Bud Abbott and Lou Costello embarking on a new business venture by opening a marriage bureau. Their attempts to matchmake for their clients lead to a series of hilarious mishaps. Bud Abbott and Lou Costello star as themselves, with support from regulars including Elvia Allman, Iris Adrian and Mel Blanc who contribute to the laughs and timeless humour that the show was known for.

Friday Night Noir - Suspense (Fugue in C Minor) & Inner Sanctum (Birdsong for a Murderer)

This week on "Friday Night Noir" on Vintage Classic Radio, immerse yourself in the chilling depths of suspense and mystery with two iconic radio shows.
First up, we transport you back to June 5th, 1944, with the "Suspense" radio show episode titled "Fugue in C Minor". This episode is a masterclass in tension and atmosphere, featuring the incomparable Vincent Price and Ida Lupino in a story that weaves a haunting melody of love, mystery and a looming sense of dread. Vincent Price plays a widowed organist who marries a woman played by Ida Lupino, only to find their lives enveloped by a dark secret hidden within the walls of his vast estate. Together, they deliver performances that are both mesmerizing and terrifying, underpinned by a musical motif that drives the narrative towards its unforgettable climax.
Following that, we dive into the eerie world of "Inner Sanctum" with the episode "Birdsong for a Murderer", originally broadcasted on June 22nd, 1952. This episode is a quintessential example of the series' ability to blend noir elements with supernatural horror, creating an atmosphere that's as unsettling as it is captivating. The story revolves around a tale of murder and madness, where the haunting melody of a bird song becomes the harbinger of death and dark secrets. The cast features Paul McGrath as the host, better known as "Your Host to the Inner Sanctum", with Larry Haines and Mercedes McCambridge delivering spellbinding performances that draw listeners into the heart of its mystery.
Join us this Friday on Vintage Classic Radio for "Friday Night Noir", and let the shadows of the past envelop you in tales of suspense and horror that have stood the test of time.

Tuesday Night Detectives - The Adventures of Sam Spade (Love Letter Caper) & Bold Venture (Camellias and a Ruby)

In this week's episode of "Tuesday Night Detectives" on Vintage Classic radio, we dive into the thrilling world of detective radio dramas, starting with "The Adventures of Sam Spade" in the "Love Letter Caper" episode, originally aired on March 27th, 1949. In this intriguing episode, Sam Spade, played by Howard Duff, gets embroiled in a mystery when he receives a cryptic love letter that leads him down a dangerous path involving deceit, jealousy and murder. Alongside Spade, Lurene Tuttle stars as his witty and loyal secretary, Effie Perrine, with additional performances by Joseph Kearns, Janet Waldo and John McIntire, creating a web of characters each with their own secrets.
Following that, we explore the exotic and suspenseful "Bold Venture", featuring the iconic duo Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall in the episode "Camellias and a Ruby". Set in the sultry backdrop of Havana, Bogart as Slate Shannon and Bacall as Sailor Duval find themselves caught in a tale of mystery and adventure involving stolen jewels, specifically a priceless ruby, and the delicate scent of camellias leading them to danger and intrigue. The chemistry between Bogart and Bacall, along with the support of Jester Hairston and E. Everett Sloane, brings to life a story of romance and peril on the high seas.
Join us as we unravel the mysteries and dive deep into the adventures of Sam Spade and the bold ventures of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, on "Tuesday Night Detectives" here at Vintage Classic Radio.

Sunday Night Playhouse - After The Thin Man (William Powell & Myrna Loy)

In this week’s captivating episode of "Sunday Night Playhouse," presented by Vintage Classic Radio, we journey back to the golden age of radio with the classic radio play, "After the Thin Man," originally broadcasted by Lux Radio Theatre on June 17th, 1940. This timeless masterpiece, a sequel to the beloved "The Thin Man," invites listeners into a world of mystery, charm, and wit, following the iconic detective duo, Nick and Nora Charles, as they delve into a new intriguing case.
As Nick and Nora Charles, portrayed by the talented William Powell and Myrna Loy, return to their San Francisco home after solving a case in New York, they are quickly swept into a web of family drama, missing persons, and murder. The plot thickens with a series of unexpected twists and turns, showcasing the couple's impeccable banter, keen observation, and unmatchable detective skills. This radio adaptation captures the essence of Dashiell Hammett's original characters, bringing to life the sparkling chemistry and sophisticated world of the Charleses.
The Lux Radio Theatre's production boasts a stellar cast, including William Powell reprising his film role as the charming and witty detective Nick Charles, and Myrna Loy as his equally savvy and stylish wife, Nora Charles. The episode also features a full list of supporting cast members who bring depth and intrigue to the story. Each actor delivers a compelling performance, making "After the Thin Man" a must-listen for fans of mystery, drama, and classic radio plays.
Join us for this enchanting broadcast on Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse." Relive the magic of old-time radio theatre with "After the Thin Man," a captivating tale of mystery, romance, and adventure that continues to enchant audiences decades after its original airing. Don't miss this exquisite blend of suspense and humor, a true testament to the enduring appeal of Nick and Nora Charles, and a highlight of radio's golden era.

Saturday Matinee - Our Miss Brooks (Telegram for Mrs. Davis), Brief Encounter, Nat King Cole Trio, Stage Door

This Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee," listeners are in for a treat with a diverse lineup of classic radio shows. The broadcast begins with "Our Miss Brooks" featuring the episode "Telegram for Mrs. Davis," which originally aired on July 10th, 1949. In this episode, the ever-resourceful English teacher Connie Brooks, portrayed by Eve Arden, finds herself embroiled in a comedic mix-up over a telegram intended for Mrs. Davis. The confusion leads to a series of humorous events that showcase Miss Brooks' wit and charm. The cast also includes Gale Gordon as Principal Osgood Conklin, Richard Crenna as student Walter Denton, Jane Morgan as the scatterbrained Mrs. Davis, and Jeff Chandler as the dashing Mr. Boynton.
Following this comedic gem, the "Academy Award" radio series captivates with "Brief Encounter," an adaptation of the poignant film, originally broadcasted on November 20th, 1946. This episode delves into the story of two strangers who meet in a train station and the deep, albeit doomed, connection they form. The emotionally charged narrative is brought to life by the outstanding performances of its cast, making it a memorable listening experience.
The evening continues to enchant with the "The Nat King Cole Trio" musical radio show from February 1st, 1947. This episode features the smooth, velvety voice of Nat King Cole accompanied by Oscar Moore on guitar and Johnny Miller on double bass, delivering a setlist of jazz standards and captivating melodies. The trio's impeccable chemistry and musicianship offer a soulful journey through some of the era's most beloved tunes.
Concluding the matinee is "The Colgate Theater of Romance" with the episode "Stage Door," aired on July 18th, 1944. This dramatic presentation takes listeners behind the scenes of a New York theater boarding house, exploring the ambitions, dreams, and realities of the aspiring actresses living there. With a cast including Judith Evelyn, June Havoc, and Angela Lansbury, the episode beautifully captures the hopes and hardships of the theatrical world, making it a fitting finale to the day's programming.
This Saturday's lineup on Vintage Classic Radio promises a rich blend of comedy, drama, music, and emotion, transporting listeners back to the golden age of radio with stories and songs that continue to resonate today.