Vintage Classic Radio

Saturday Matinee - Mrs. Moonlight, Jack Benny Show, Bing Crosby Chesterfield Show

Vintage Classic Radio presents "Saturday Matinee". Tune in every Saturday for a mix of comedy, music or romance from the golden age of radio that will keep you entertained.
Our lineup this Saturday includes:
1. "Mrs. Moonlight" from Lux Radio Theatre (June 26th, 1939):
In this enchanting radio play, Lux Radio Theatre presents a heartwarming story of love, sacrifice, and second chances. Follow the tale of Mrs. Moonlight, a widow who finds herself at a crossroads when an unexpected visitor from her past arrives. Starring a talented cast of actors, this romantic story will keep you captivated from start to finish.
Full Cast:
Mrs. Moonlight: Janet Gaynor
Richard Bower: George Brent
Mr. Hart: Charles Butterworth
Martha: Nella Walker
Henry Bower: Donald Meek
Dr. Adams: Gordon Oliver
Sarah: Virginia Weidler
Edward: Tommy Bupp
Jenkins: Victor Rodman
2. "The Maxwell is Stolen" from Jack Benny Show (October 1st, 1950):
Get ready for laughter and excitement as the legendary Jack Benny takes center stage in this hilarious episode of his popular radio show. When Jack's beloved Maxwell car gets stolen, chaos ensues as he embarks on a quest to recover it. With a stellar cast of comedic talents, this radio play is guaranteed to tickle your funny bone and leave you in stitches.
"The Jack Benny Show" was one of the most beloved and long-running radio programs of the mid-20th century. It starred Jack Benny, a comedic genius known for his impeccable timing, witty humor, and ability to create hilarious situations out of everyday occurrences. The show's blend of comedy sketches, witty banter, and memorable characters made it a fan favorite that entertained audiences for decades.
Full Cast:
Jack Benny: Jack Benny
Mary Livingston: Mary Livingston
Rochester: Eddie Anderson
Don Wilson: Don Wilson
Phil Harris: Phil Harris
Dennis Day: Dennis Day
Frank Nelson: Frank Nelson
Additional voices: Various supporting actors
3. "The Chesterfield Show" with Bing Crosby - Special Guest Stars Ella Fitzgerald and Mills Brothers (November 9th, 1949)
"The Chesterfield Show" was a highly popular radio program that showcased the incredible talents of Bing Crosby, one of the most iconic and beloved entertainers of the 20th century. Bing Crosby's smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence captivated audiences week after week. The show featured a delightful blend of music, comedy, and guest performances, making it a true variety extravaganza.
"The Chesterfield Show" also regularly welcomed esteemed guest stars, and this episode featuring Ella Fitzgerald and The Mills Brothers is a shining example of the incredible talent that graced the program. Ella Fitzgerald, known as the First Lady of Song, brought her mesmerizing vocals and captivating stage presence to the show, while The Mills Brothers added their harmonious blend of voices, creating unforgettable musical moments.

Friday Night Noir - Where the Sidewalk Ends - Dana Andrews & Anne Baxter

In this week's installment of Vintage Classic Radio's "Friday Night Noir," we delve into the dark and gripping world of crime and suspense. Join us as we present the riveting radio adaptation of "Where the Sidewalk Ends," originally broadcasted by Lux Radio Theatre on April 2nd, 1951.
"Where the Sidewalk Ends" is a thrilling noir tale that takes listeners on a journey through the shadowy streets of New York City. The story revolves around Mark Dixon, a tough and relentless police detective played by the legendary Dana Andrews. Known for his unyielding dedication to the law, Dixon is haunted by a past mistake that has left him disillusioned and driven by a desire for redemption.
When Dixon becomes entangled in a murder investigation, he finds himself in a dangerous predicament. As the evidence points to an innocent man, Dixon's instincts push him towards covering up the crime, leading to a treacherous web of deception and moral dilemmas. With time running out, Dixon must confront his own demons while unraveling the truth, putting his own life and the lives of those close to him at risk.
With a taut and suspenseful narrative, "Where the Sidewalk Ends" explores the depths of human nature and the thin line between justice and corruption. As the radio adaptation brings this enthralling story to life, prepare to be captivated by its atmospheric setting, complex characters, and a suspenseful plot that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Full Cast:
Mark Dixon: Dana Andrews
Morgan Taylor: Anne Baxter
Jiggs Taylor: Gene Lockhart
Tommy Scalise: John Dehner
Martha: Cathy Lewis
Ken Paine: Elliott Reid
Lieutenant Thomas: Wilms Herbert
Detective Paul Klein: Herb Butterfield
Detective Michaels: Tony Barrett
Officer Nat Finley: Eddie Firestone
Detective Tom Baker: Jerry Hausner
Detective Dorgan: Jack Kruschen
Cab Driver: Richard Peel
Mrs. Scalise: Gloria Gordon
Vintage Classic Radio presents Friday Night Noir where we bring to life timeless classic detective noir, mystery and suspense from the golden age of radio between the 1930s and the 1960s. 

Tuesday Night Detectives - Ellery Queen (Number Thirty One) & Bulldog Drummond (Hijackers)

Don't miss Vintage Classic Radio's Tuesday Night Detectives every Tuesday evening, featuring back-to-back episodes of the finest detective radio dramas from the 1930s through the 1960s. Step back in time to the Golden Age of Radio with two thrilling radio plays.
This week, we present two gripping mysteries: "Number Thirty One" from detective radio show, "Ellery Queen", followed by "Hijackers" from detective "Bulldog Drummond". Get ready to embark on a nostalgic journey to the golden age of radio dramas!
Number Thirty One - Ellery Queen
In "Number Thirty One," renowned amateur detective Ellery Queen finds himself caught in a web of deception and murder when he attends a glamorous costume party at a secluded mansion. As the night unfolds, a mysterious crime takes place, and it's up to Ellery Queen to unravel the secrets hidden within the grand estate's walls. With time ticking away, can Ellery use his astute deductive skills to solve the case and unmask the culprit? Tune in to find out!
Full Cast:
Ellery Queen: Hugh Marlowe
Inspector Richard Queen: Santos Ortega
Nikki Porter: Marian Shockley
Jack Packard: Ted Osborne
Rusty Allen: Tony Randall
Various supporting characters: additional actors
Hijackers - Bulldog Drummond
In "Hijackers," the fearless adventurer and ex-British army officer, Bulldog Drummond, embarks on a high-stakes mission to thwart a gang of ruthless criminals. When an innocent airplane ride takes a perilous turn, Drummond finds himself in a fight for survival against a group of dangerous hijackers. With his quick wit and formidable skills, Bulldog Drummond must outsmart the cunning culprits and bring them to justice.
Full Cast:
Bulldog Drummond: Santos Ortega
Captain Denny: George Gunn
Tenny: Gene Marsh
Algy Longworth: Juan Ortega
Inspector McIver: Roger DeKoven
Various supporting characters: additional actors

Sunday Night Playhouse - Rebecca - Daphne du Maurier & Orson Welles

Join Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse" as we bring this timeless tale of love, mystery, and suspense to your ears in an unforgettable radio adaptation of "Rebecca."
This captivating radio adaptation of Daphne du Maurier's renowned novel, "Rebecca." was originally broadcasted by the Campbell Playhouse on December 9th, 1938, this adaptation marked the first time the beloved novel was brought to life in any form. Set in the mysterious world of Manderley, the story delves into themes of love, secrets, and the haunting presence of the enigmatic Rebecca.
The story begins when a young woman, portrayed by Margaret Sullavan, marries the dashing widower Maxim de Winter, played by Orson Welles. The newlyweds settle into Manderley, Maxim's ancestral estate, where the spectre of Rebecca, his deceased first wife, looms large. The memory of Rebecca is perpetuated by Mrs. Danvers, the chilling housekeeper, portrayed by Agnes Moorehead, who remains fiercely loyal to Rebecca's memory and continuously undermines the second Mrs. de Winter.
As the new Mrs. de Winter tries to establish herself in the shadow of Rebecca, she becomes increasingly haunted by the secrets and dark history that surround Manderley. She uncovers the truth about Rebecca's untimely demise and the hidden alliances that threaten her own happiness.
With a rich soundscape and expertly crafted performances, this radio adaptation of "Rebecca" brings du Maurier's atmospheric tale to life, captivating audiences with its suspenseful plot, vivid characters, and hauntingly beautiful setting.
Full Cast:
Margaret Sullavan as the second Mrs. de Winter
Orson Welles as Maxim de Winter
Agnes Moorehead as Mrs. Danvers
George Coulouris as Frank Crawley
Ray Collins as Colonel Julyan
Lurene Tuttle as Beatrice Lacy
Mildred Natwick as Edythe Van Hopper
Everett Sloane as Ben
Georgia Backus as Clarice
William Alland as Favell
Erskine Sanford as Tabbs
Howard Smith as Coroner
Walter Hampden as Coroner
Betty Hanna as Mrs. Van Hopper's maid
Alfred Shirley as William
Peggy French as Girl
Elizabeth Lawrence as Another Girl
Vintage Classic Radio presents the Sunday Night Playhouse, where we bring to life timeless classics from the golden age of radio between the 1930s and the 1960s.

Saturday Matinee - His Girl Friday (Cary Grant), The Great Gildersleeve, Hancock’s Half Hour

Vintage Classic Radio presents "Saturday Matinee". Tune in every Saturday for a mix of comedy, music or romance from the golden age of radio that will keep you entertained.
Our lineup this Saturday includes:
1. "His Girl Friday" - Screen Guild Theater (Broadcast Date: March 30th 1941)
Step into the fast-paced world of newspaper reporting with "His Girl Friday." Adapted from the hit 1940 film, this comedy-drama revolves around the life of Hildy Johnson, a talented and determined newspaper reporter. When her ex-husband and editor, Walter Burns, learns that Hildy is planning to leave the newspaper business and marry another man, he sets out on a mission to win her back. Prepare for witty banter, romantic entanglements, and a thrilling race against time as Hildy finds herself caught up in a high-stakes story that could change her life.
Full Cast:
Hildy Johnson: Rosalind Russell
Walter Burns: Cary Grant
Bruce Baldwin: Ralph Bellamy
Mrs. Baldwin: Abigail Adams
Sheriff Hartwell: Clarence Kolb
Murphy: John Qualen
Bensinger: Edwin Max
Duffy: Charles Seel
Peggy Grant: Janet Waldo
Williams: Paul Dubov
McCue: Tyler McVey
Reporter #1: Norman Field
Reporter #2: Frank Nelson
2. "Fishing Trip to Lake Hackmatack" - The Great Gildersleeve (Broadcast Date: August 30th, 1942)
Join the lovable and comical Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve on a memorable fishing trip to Lake Hackmatack. Gildersleeve, a bachelor and water commissioner, takes his nephew Leroy and housekeeper Marjorie along for a weekend getaway. However, things don't go exactly as planned when Gildersleeve's attempts at fishing are met with hilarious misadventures and unexpected challenges. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the humorous escapades that unfold in this delightful episode of The Great Gildersleeve
Full Cast:
Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve: Harold Peary
Leroy: Walter Tetley
Marjorie: Lurene Tuttle
Birdie: Lillian Randolph
Judge Hooker: Earle Ross
Floyd Munson: Arthur Q. Bryan
Peavey: Richard LeGrand
Mrs. Munson: Bea Benaderet
Charlie Anderson: Bill Goodwin
Announcer: Ken Carpenter
3. "The Radio Ham" - Hancock's Half Hour (Broadcast Date: June 9th, 1961)
Prepare for laughter and chaos as Tony Hancock, the iconic British comedian, takes center stage in "The Radio Ham." In this hilarious episode, Hancock becomes obsessed with amateur radio and dreams of making contact with someone from a distant land. However, his attempts are constantly thwarted by interference, technical difficulties, and his own comedic mishaps. With his loyal sidekick, Sid James, by his side, Hancock's ambitious pursuit of communication leads to uproarious situations that will leave you in stitches.
Full Cast:
Tony Hancock: Tony Hancock
Sid James: Sid James
Bill: Bill Kerr
Hattie Jacques: Hattie Jacques
Kenneth Williams: Kenneth Williams
Announcer: John Snagge

Friday Night Noir - Inner Sanctum (The Tell Tale Heart) & Mysterious Traveller (The Man Who Knew Everything)

Vintage Classic Radio presents Friday Night Noir where we bring to life timeless classic detective noir, mystery and suspense from the golden age of radio between the 1930s and the 1960s.
Episode Description:
Inner Sanctum - "The Tell Tale Heart" (August 3rd, 1941)
In our first radio play, we delve into the sinister world of Edgar Allan Poe's macabre tale, "The Tell Tale Heart," as brought to life by the masterful actors of the Inner Sanctum.
In this chilling adaptation of Poe's classic short story, we meet a disturbed and unnamed narrator plagued by his own guilt. Tormented by the relentless beating of his victim's heart, the narrator confesses his crime to an unsuspecting audience. As his paranoia grows, so does the relentless pulsation of the telltale heart, driving him to the brink of insanity.
Notable Cast and Roles:
- Narrator: Paul McGrath
- The Old Man: Santos Ortega
- Police Sergeant: Karl Swenson
- Police Lieutenant: Richard Widmark
- Medical Examiner: Maurice Tarplin
Mysterious Traveler - "The Man Who Knew Everything" (October 9th, 1951)
Our next radio play, "The Man Who Knew Everything," is a mind-bending tale brought to you by the captivating performers of the show, Mysterious Traveler.
In "The Man Who Knew Everything," we follow the story of a brilliant but enigmatic man named Dr. Malcolm Monroe. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Monroe possesses an uncanny ability to uncover the secrets of the universe. When a desperate woman seeks his assistance to find her missing husband, Monroe's intellect and unparalleled deduction skills are put to the ultimate test. As the truth unravels, secrets are revealed, and nothing is as it seems.
Notable Cast and Roles:
- Dr. Malcolm Monroe: Maurice Tarplin
- Martha Carter: Ann Shepherd
- Paul Carter: Unknown

Tuesday Night Detectives - Richard Diamond Private Detective (Fifty Thousand Dollar Diamond Heist) & Broadway Is My Beat (The Dr. Robbie McClure Case)

Don't miss Vintage Classic Radio's Tuesday Night Detectives every Tuesday evening, featuring back-to-back episodes of the finest detective radio dramas from the 1930s through the 1960s.
Step back in time to the Golden Age of Radio with two thrilling radio plays. In the first episode, "Richard Diamond Private Detective: Fifty Thousand Dollar Diamond Heist," originally broadcasted on November 12th, 1949, renowned private detective Richard Diamond finds himself entangled in a dangerous case of stolen diamonds worth a fortune. Follow Diamond as he navigates the treacherous criminal underworld to recover the precious gems before it's too late. Packed with suspense, intrigue, and classic detective storytelling, this radio play will keep you on the edge of your seat.
"Richard Diamond Private Detective: Fifty Thousand Dollar Diamond Heist" (November 12th, 1949) Cast:
Richard Diamond: Dick Powell
Helen Asher: Virginia Gregg
Lieutenant Walt Levinson: Ed Begley
Sam: Wilms Herbert
Additional Voices: William Conrad, Herb Butterfield, Lawrence Dobkin
In the second episode, "Broadway is My Beat: The Dr. Robbie McClure Case," originally broadcasted on August 4th, 1949, we join Detective Danny Clover on the streets of New York City's bustling Broadway. When a renowned physician, Dr. Robbie McClure, becomes a murder suspect, Clover must unravel the web of secrets and lies that surround the case. With his keen instincts and relentless determination, Clover dives into the heart of the city's vibrant theater district, uncovering the truth while navigating the complexities of human nature.
"Broadway is My Beat: The Dr. Robbie McClure Case" (August 4th, 1949) Cast:
Detective Danny Clover: Larry Thor
Sergeant Gino Tartaglia: Charles Calvert
Dr. Robbie McClure: Unknown
Dr. Sandor: Unknown
Additional Voices: Jack Kruschen, Jeanette Nolan, Ted de Corsia
Join us for an auditory journey into the past as we bring these classic radio plays to life, transporting you to a bygone era of mystery and suspense.

Sunday Night Playhouse - Dinner at Eight - Orson Welles & Lucille Ball

Every Sunday night, Vintage Classic Radio presents the Sunday Night Playhouse, where we bring to life timeless classics from the golden age of radio between the 1930s and the 1960s
Episode Description:
Step back in time to 1930s Hollywood with Vintage Classic Radio's Sunday Night Playhouse. In this episode of the Campbell Playhouse, we bring you a captivating radio adaptation of the classic play "Dinner at Eight," broadcasted on February 18th, 1940.
As the Great Depression casts a shadow over the nation, the lives of New York's high society intersect in the countdown to a lavish dinner party. Mrs. Oliver Jordan, a well-to-do socialite, anxiously prepares for the event, determined to impress her guests. Yet, behind the facade of wealth and privilege, secrets, scandals, and unexpected twists unfold, revealing the true nature of the characters' relationships.
Led by the legendary Orson Welles as director and host, the cast of "Dinner at Eight" delivers a brilliant performance, immersing listeners in a world filled with opulence, witty dialogue, and dramatic confrontations. Join us on Vintage Classic Radio's Sunday Night Playhouse to experience this enthralling tale of high society's unraveling, as alliances are tested, and ambitions clash.
Full Cast:
Orson Welles: Director and Host
Marjorie Main: Carlotta Vance
Hedda Hopper: Millicent Jordan
Shirley Booth: Kitty Packard
Madeleine Carroll: Mrs. Oliver Jordan
Errol Flynn: Dr. Wayne Talbot
Charles Butterworth: Larry Renault
Walter Huston: Dan Packard
Agnes Moorehead: Hattie Loomis
Alan Reed: Max Kane
Carl Frank: Eddie
Frank Readick: Mr. Fitch
Ray Collins: Ed Loomis
Richard Wilson: Mr. Hatfield
William Alland: Waiter
Joseph Cotten: Radio Announce

Saturday Matinee - Abbott & Costello Show, The Mel Blanc Show, The Railroad Hour

Introducing "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio. Tune in every Saturday for a mix of comedy, music or romance from the golden age of radio that will keep you entertained.
Our debut lineup this Saturday includes:
1. "Bud and Lou are in a Play" - Abbott & Costello Show (Broadcast Date: June 21, 1945)
Comedy icons Bud Abbott and Lou Costello navigate through a series of hilarious mishaps and misunderstandings as they find themselves unexpectedly involved in a theatrical production. A classic blend of slapstick and wordplay, this episode is an emblem of their timeless humor.
Cast: Bud Abbott, Lou Costello, Elvia Allman, Mel Blanc, and Sharon Douglas
2. "The Cake Contest" - The Mel Blanc Show (Broadcast Date: September 17, 1946)
In this fun-filled episode, Mel Blanc, famous for his various cartoon character voices, finds himself in a fix as he enters a cake baking contest. The catch? He doesn't know the first thing about baking! Brace yourself for laughs, surprises, and a few baking disasters along the way.
Cast: Mel Blanc, Mary Jane Croft, Joseph Kearns, Hans Conried, and Jim Backus
3. "Anything Goes" - The Railroad Hour
"Anything Goes" is a 1934 musical by Cole Porter, set on an ocean liner from New York to London. It follows the comedic exploits of stowaway Billy Crocker as he attempts to win the heart of engaged heiress Hope Harcourt, with the help of notable characters Reno Sweeney and “Moonface” Martin. Since its Broadway debut, this beloved musical, renowned for hits like "Anything Goes," "You're the Top," and "I Get a Kick Out of You", has been revived many times and was even adapted for "The Railroad Hour", a popular radio series that aired on ABC and NBC from 1948 to 1954
Cast: Gordon MacRae, Lucille Norman, and supporting cast

Friday Night Noir - Strangers on a Train - Ray Milland & Patricia Hitchcock

Step back in time with Lux Radio Theatre as we bring you a captivating radio adaptation of the iconic thriller "Strangers on a Train." Based on Patricia Highsmith's gripping novel, this episode originally aired on December 3rd, 1951.
Episode Description:
In "Strangers on a Train," two strangers with troubled lives find themselves entangled in a sinister pact. Guy Haines, a successful tennis player played by Ray Milland, meets the charming but unstable Bruno Anthony, portrayed by Frank Lovejoy. During their chance encounter on a train, Bruno suggests an unthinkable plan: each of them should commit a murder for the other, eliminating any suspicion of motive. Guy dismisses it as a joke, but Bruno is dead serious.
As the story unfolds, Guy's life takes a dark turn when Bruno carries out his part of the bargain, expecting Guy to reciprocate. Caught in a web of deception and murder, Guy must find a way to outwit Bruno while protecting himself and his loved ones.
Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of "Strangers on a Train" broadcasted on December 3rd, 1951:
Guy Haines: Ray Milland
Bruno Anthony: Martin Gabel
Anne Morton: Jane Wyman
Senator Morton: Frank Lovejoy
Miriam Haines: Mary Lansing
Barbara Morton: Patricia Hitchcock
Jeff: Joseph Kearns
Ruth Roman: Jeanette Nolan
The Judge: Charles Lung
The Commissioner: Eddie Marr
Dr. Tolliver: Herb Vigran