Vintage Classic Radio

Friday Night Noir - The Weird Circle (The Doll) & Murder at Midnight (The Ace of Death)

In this week's "Friday Night Noir" double feature, we begin with "The Weird Circle" radio show, featuring the spine-tingling episode titled "The Doll," originally broadcasted in 1944. As the shadows deepen and the eerie atmosphere takes hold, listeners will be transported to a world of mystery and suspense. In "The Doll," a young man stumbles upon an antique doll with an uncanny resemblance to his long-lost love, setting off a chain of events that lead to a chilling revelation.
Following "The Doll," we dive even deeper into the realm of darkness with "Murder at Midnight." In the gripping episode titled "The Ace of Death," suspense and intrigue will keep you on the edge of your seat. When a famous card shark is found murdered in a seedy nightclub, a web of deception, secrets, and deadly games unfolds. Can the detective untangle the clues before it's too late? Tune in to find out.
Get ready for a night of classic radio noir that will send shivers down your spine, only on Vintage Classic Radio's "Friday Night Noir."

Tuesday Night Detectives - Pat Novak for Hire (Mysterious Set of Books) & The Adventures of Frank Race (Hackensack Victory)

In this week's episode of "Tuesday Night Detectives" on Vintage Classic Radio, we dive into the world of gritty mysteries and suspense from the golden age of radio. First up, we present "Pat Novak for Hire," originally broadcasted on August 10th, 1947, in an episode titled "Mysterious Set of Books." In this thrilling tale, Pat Novak, portrayed by the talented Jack Webb, finds himself entangled in a web of intrigue when a mysterious set of books becomes the center of a deadly power struggle. Novak must use his sharp wit and cunning to navigate the dangerous underworld of San Francisco, where secrets and betrayals lurk around every corner. Joining Jack Webb in the cast are Ben Morris, Raymond Burr, and Tudor Owen, bringing to life the colorful characters that populate this atmospheric crime drama.
Following Pat Novak's adventures, we take you on another thrilling ride with "The Adventures of Frank Race." Originally aired in 1949, the episode titled "The Adventure of the Hackensack Victory" unfolds a gripping story as Frank Race, played by the charismatic Tom Collins, is drawn into an international conspiracy involving a stolen cargo ship and a valuable cargo of war surplus materials. With his trusty sidekick Mark Donovan, portrayed by Tony Barrett, Race faces danger on the high seas and treacherous foes in this suspenseful escapade. The supporting cast includes Georgia Ellis and Paul Dubov, who skillfully bring to life a world filled with espionage and intrigue, where Race's resourcefulness is put to the test. Tune in to "Tuesday Night Detectives" for an evening of vintage radio mystery and suspense that will transport you back to a bygone era of thrilling entertainment.

Sunday Night Playhouse - The Day The Earth Stood Still

In this week's episode of Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse," we delve into the timeless world of radio drama with the broadcast of "The Day The Earth Stood Still." Originally penned by acclaimed author Harry Bates, this gripping tale takes us on a journey of extraterrestrial encounters and the profound impact they have on humanity. Lux Radio Theatre first brought this iconic story to the airwaves on January 4th, 1954, captivating audiences with its thought-provoking narrative.
In this radio adaptation, the cast brought the story to life with their exceptional performances. Leading the ensemble was Richard Carlson in the role of Klaatu, the enigmatic visitor from another world. Joining him was Jean Hagen as Helen Benson, the unsuspecting Earthling who forms a deep connection with Klaatu. Billy Gray portrayed Bobby Benson, Helen's young son, while veteran actor Ralph Bellamy took on the role of Tom Stevens, a government official caught in the midst of the extraterrestrial intrigue. Together, they skillfully conveyed the suspense and wonder of this classic science fiction tale.
Tune in to Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse" to experience the magic of "The Day The Earth Stood Still" once more, as we celebrate the enduring legacy of this radio masterpiece. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the golden age of radio drama, as we continue to bring you the finest in vintage entertainment.

Saturday Matinee - Mel Blanc Show, Fibber McGee and Molly & The Railroad Hour (Whoopee)

In this week's "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio, we're treating you to three delightful shows from the golden era of radio. First up, we have "The Mel Blanc Show" in the episode titled "The Masquerade Ball," originally broadcasted on January 28th, 1947. In this hilarious episode, Mel Blanc finds himself in a comical mix-up as he prepares for a masquerade ball, leading to a series of rib-tickling misunderstandings and mishaps. The full cast for this episode includes Mel Blanc as himself, Mary Jane Croft as Betty Colby, Joseph Kearns as Mr. Colby, and Hans Conried as Professor LeBlanc.
Following that, we have "Fibber McGee and Molly" in the episode titled "Fibber Buys a Puppy," originally aired on January 13th, 1953. In this endearing installment, Fibber McGee's impulsive decision to buy a puppy leads to a cascade of comedic consequences, much to the chagrin of his ever-patient wife, Molly. The talented cast includes Jim Jordan as Fibber McGee, Marian Jordan as Molly McGee, Bill Thompson as Wallace Wimple, and Gale Gordon as Mayor LaTrivia.
Lastly, we present "The Railroad Hour" with a musical extravaganza featuring "Whoopee," originally aired on January 3rd, 1949. This thrilling episode showcases a lively performance of the classic musical "Whoopee," filled with toe-tapping songs and dazzling choreography. The talented cast for this musical treat includes Gordon MacRae as the lead, Lucille Norman as Sally Morgan, and a fantastic ensemble of singers and dancers who bring the magic of "Whoopee" to your ears.
Join us this Saturday for a nostalgic journey back in time with these three timeless radio classics. "The Mel Blanc Show," "Fibber McGee and Molly," and "The Railroad Hour" are sure to entertain and transport you to a bygone era of radio entertainment, so don't miss it!

Friday Night Noir - Pickup on South Street - Thelma Ritter

In this week's "Friday Night Noir" episode of Vintage Classic Radio, we bring you a thrilling radio adaptation of "Pickup On South Street," originally broadcasted on June 21st, 1954, as part of the Lux Radio Theater series. Set against the backdrop of post-war New York City, this gripping tale of crime and espionage unfolds when a seasoned pickpocket named Skip McCoy, portrayed by Stephen McNally, unwittingly lifts a wallet containing stolen government secrets. Thelma Ritter shines as Moe, a streetwise informant, and Terry Moore captivates as Candy, the unsuspecting courier caught between the ruthless spy world and the rough streets of South Street. As the story twists and turns, tensions rise, and loyalties are tested, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats. Tune in this Friday night to experience the suspense, intrigue, and exceptional performances of this classic noir masterpiece on Vintage Classic Radio.

Tuesday Night Detectives - The Adventures of Philip Marlowe (The Long Rope) & Mr. District Attorney (The Case of the Frying Pan Murder)

On this installment of “Tuesday Night Detectives” on Vintage Classic Radio, we immerse ourselves in two classic radio dramas. Our journey begins with "The Adventures of Philip Marlowe" and the episode, “The Long Rope,” originally broadcast on February 5th, 1949. In this episode, the iconic detective Philip Marlowe, brought to life by Gerald Mohr, is thrust into a complex case involving a missing man and a mysterious long rope. His investigation leads him through a maze of intriguing characters and perilous situations. Key players in this episode include Jeff Corey as Lieutenant Barra, Georgia Ellis as Mrs. Kolb, and Tony Barrett as Chester. Each character adds depth and intrigue to Marlowe's investigation, which twists and turns through the seedy underbelly of the city, uncovering secrets and lies at every corner.
Following this, we dive into "Mr. District Attorney" and the episode “The Case of the Frying Pan Murder,” which first aired on March 1st, 1953. Here, David Brian stars as the unflappable Mr. District Attorney, confronting a peculiar and challenging murder case. A seemingly ordinary frying pan becomes the centerpiece of the investigation, as it's linked to a brutal and baffling murder. The episode is enriched by the performances of Jay Jostyn as Mr. Harrington, Vicki Vola as Miss Miller, and Len Doyle as Harrington's assistant. The narrative weaves a captivating tale of mystery, where clues are scarce and every piece of evidence is crucial. As the story unfolds, listeners are drawn into a world of suspense and intrigue, where the pursuit of justice navigates through unexpected revelations and shocking twists.
These episodes from “The Adventures of Philip Marlowe” and “Mr. District Attorney” epitomize the golden era of radio drama, featuring complex stories, rich characterizations, and captivating suspense that continue to enthrall audiences even in today's digital age.

Sunday Night Playhouse - Notorious (Ingrid Bergman & Joseph Cotten)

Welcome to a special presentation by Vintage Classic Radio on our "Sunday Night Playhouse." This week, we bring you a captivating radio play titled "Notorious," originally broadcasted by Lux Radio Theatre on January 26th, 1948. Starring the legendary Ingrid Bergman and Joseph Cotten, this thrilling adaptation is based on the screenplay by Ben Hecht, inspired by the 1946 Alfred Hitchcock film of the same name.
In "Notorious," Ingrid Bergman portrays Alicia Huberman, the daughter of a convicted Nazi spy. Recruited by the American government, she embarks on a perilous mission to infiltrate a group of Nazis in post-World War II Brazil. Joseph Cotten takes on the role of Devlin, an American agent assigned to work alongside her. As their mission unfolds, they find themselves entangled in a web of espionage, deceit, and forbidden love. The suspense builds as they must navigate their emotions while striving to ensure the success of their mission. Will their feelings jeopardize the entire operation, or will they emerge victorious in their dangerous endeavor?
Join us as we revisit this iconic tale in audio format, masterfully adapted by Ben Hecht and performed by Ingrid Bergman and Joseph Cotten. This radio play captures all the suspense and romance of the original story, offering a unique and immersive experience for listeners. "Notorious" is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences, and we are delighted to bring it to you this week on our "Sunday Night Playhouse" podcast.
Experience the intrigue and drama of "Notorious" as we transport you back to a bygone era of radio theater. Tune in for a night of espionage, passion, and suspense, and don't miss this opportunity to enjoy the artistry of two legendary actors in a radio adaptation of a Hitchcock classic.

Saturday Matinee - The Aldrich Family, Our Miss Brooks, Philco Radio Time (Bing Crosby, Louis Armstrong)

Welcome to another thrilling edition of "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio! Today, we step back into the nostalgic world of 1949 with three remarkable radio shows.
We kick off with "The Aldrich Family" in the delightful episode "Gildy Goes on a Diet". Originally broadcasted by The Jell-O Family on April 21st, 1949, this episode is a comedic gem that revolves around the lovable character Henry Aldrich, as he finds himself in a series of amusing situations while trying to help his friend Gildersleeve with a diet plan. The talented cast bringing this episode to life includes Ezra Stone as Henry Aldrich, Jackie Kelk as his best friend Homer Brown, and House Jameson and Katharine Raht as his understanding parents, Sam and Alice Aldrich. Norma Jean Nilsson voices Henry's sister Mary, and the episode is peppered with the delightful interactions of the Aldrich family and their friends.
Next, we dive into the warm and witty world of "Our Miss Brooks" in the episode titled "The Heating System", which first aired on January 9th, 1949. This episode is a humorous take on the everyday challenges faced by the beloved high school English teacher, Miss Connie Brooks. Played by the inimitable Eve Arden, Miss Brooks navigates through the trials and tribulations of working in a school with a faulty heating system, providing laughs and relatable moments along the way. The cast also features Gale Gordon as the blustery Principal Osgood Conklin, Richard Crenna as the student Walter Denton, Jane Morgan as Mrs. Davis, and Jeff Chandler as the biology teacher Mr. Boynton, all contributing to the lively and engaging narrative.
Finally, we wrap up our Saturday Matinee with the melodious "Philco Radio Time", a musical radio show hosted by the iconic Bing Crosby. The episode we're showcasing, originally aired on March 16th, 1949, features the legendary Louis Armstrong as a guest. This show is a delightful blend of music and comedy, with Bing Crosby's smooth voice and Louis Armstrong's unique jazz flair creating an unforgettable listening experience. "Philco Radio Time" was known for its high-quality production and stellar guest appearances, and this episode is no exception, highlighting the best of what radio entertainment had to offer during the golden era.
So, sit back, relax, and let us transport you back to 1949 with these timeless classics on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee".

Friday Night Noir - The Crime Club (Mr. Smith’s Hat) & Sears Radio Theater (Then There Were None)

Welcome to Vintage Classic Radio's "Friday Night Noir," where the shadows run deep and the mysteries keep you on the edge of your seat. Tonight, we're diving into a double feature of classic radio suspense and intrigue.
First up, we have "The Crime Club," with the enthralling episode "Mr. Smith's Hat," originally broadcasted on January 23rd, 1947. In this gripping tale, we're pulled into a world of mystery when Mr. Smith's hat becomes the central clue in a puzzling murder case. The story twists and turns as Detective Inspector McKee takes on the challenge of solving a crime where the only lead is an ordinary hat. The talented cast bringing this story to life includes Raymond Edward Johnson as the Narrator, Helen Shields as the mysterious Mrs. Williams, Barry Thomson as Detective Inspector McKee, and Roger De Koven in the role of the enigmatic Mr. Smith. Supporting cast members include Carl Frank, Julie Stevens, and Bryna Raeburn, each adding their unique flair to this classic tale of crime and suspense.
Following "The Crime Club," we'll journey into the world of "Sears Radio Theater" with the episode "Then There Were None." This intriguing episode, a nod to Agatha Christie's famous novel, brings us a tale of a group of strangers invited to an isolated island. As they start to uncover the dark secrets of their past, they realize that a vengeful hand is orchestrating their fate. The ensemble cast features top talents including Vic Perrin, Mary Jane Croft, Howard Culver, and Shepard Menken, with Lurene Tuttle giving a standout performance. The suspense thickens as each character confronts their past, leading to a climax that will leave you breathless.
So, turn down the lights, sit back, and let the shadows of "Friday Night Noir" envelop you. Whether it's a detective unraveling the mystery of a simple hat or a group of strangers facing their darkest secrets, tonight's episodes are sure to captivate and thrill. Stay tuned as we step into the world of vintage crime and mystery, right here on Vintage Classic Radio.

Tuesday Night Detectives - The Adventures of Sam Spade (Stopped Watch Caper) & 21st Precinct (The Mark)

In this week’s episode of “Tuesday Night Detectives” on Vintage Classic Radio, we dive into the riveting world of vintage detective dramas. The show opens with "The Adventures of Sam Spade," featuring the episode “Stopped Watch Caper,” originally aired on April 10th, 1949. This episode plunges listeners into a complex plot where Sam Spade, voiced by Howard Duff, embarks on an investigation after a seemingly innocuous stopped watch is discovered at a murder scene. As Spade delves deeper, he uncovers a tangled web of familial strife, financial troubles, and deceitful alliances, all revolving around the enigmatic timepiece. The suspense thickens when Spade realizes the watch is a key piece in a much larger, more dangerous puzzle involving high stakes and hidden identities. Alongside Spade, Lurene Tuttle stars as his sharp-witted secretary Effie Perrine, with Joseph Kearns, Janet Waldo, and William Conrad adding depth to the story with their compelling performances.
The episode then transitions to “21st Precinct” and the episode “The Mark,” first broadcasted on October 27th, 1954. Here, listeners are taken to the gritty streets of New York City with Captain Frank Kennelly, portrayed by Everett Sloane. Kennelly, along with his team of officers played by Ken Lynch, Harold Stone, and Jack Kruschen, tackles the case of a slick con artist whose scams leave a string of troubled victims. The episode is a testament to the authenticity of police work and the moral dilemmas officers face daily.
This installment of “Tuesday Night Detectives” is a tribute to the golden age of radio, with "The Adventures of Sam Spade" and "21st Precinct" epitomizing the intrigue and drama of the era. The brilliant voice acting and intricate storytelling in these episodes capture the essence of classic radio detective dramas, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in a world of mystery and suspense.