Vintage Classic Radio

This Sunday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse," we are thrilled to present a double bill holiday special featuring two cherished radio plays. The evening begins with "Christmas in Connecticut" from NBC Author's Playhouse, originally broadcast on December 21, 1941. Starring Ronald Reagan and Jane Wyman, this delightful episode follows a food writer who struggles to live up to her perfect homemaker image when a war hero visits her for a traditional Christmas, leading to a series of humorous misunderstandings and romantic complications. Following that, we'll enjoy "Christmas by Injunction" from CBS Screen Guild Theatre, which originally aired on August 5, 1946. Based on a story by O. Henry, this heartwarming tale is set in the old West and tells the story of a wealthy miner who attempts to orchestrate an elaborate Christmas celebration for his old hometown, only to discover that the true spirit of the season requires more personal sacrifices than he anticipated. Together, these episodes offer a perfect blend of humor, nostalgia, and the timeless joy of the holiday spirit.

This Saturday on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee," we open with "The Life of Riley" in the episode “The Christmas Club,” which first aired on December 23rd, 1949. In this festive episode, Chester A. Riley, portrayed by William Bendix, struggles to hide his Christmas club savings from his family, leading to a series of humorous misunderstandings. The cast includes Paula Winslowe as Peg Riley, John Brown as Digby "Digger" O'Dell, and Wesley Morgan as Junior Riley. Following that, we tune into the "Abbott and Costello Show" for "The Christmas Show," originally broadcast on December 23rd, 1943. Bud Abbott and Lou Costello bring their iconic comedy to the holiday season, involving a hilarious quest to buy a Christmas tree and a mix-up involving Santa Claus himself. The duo is joined by regulars such as Mel Blanc and Arthur Q. Bryan in supporting roles. Our third show features "The Christmas Seals Show," a charity radio special guest starring Frank Sinatra, which highlights the importance of supporting the fight against tuberculosis through the purchase of Christmas Seals stamps. Sinatra lends his voice to both song and story, encouraging listeners to contribute to the cause. He's supported by a lineup of guest stars and a full orchestra, adding to the festive spirit and charitable appeal. We conclude with "Moonlight Serenade," a show starring Glen Miller and his orchestra. In the "Christmas Show," broadcast on December 24th, 1941, listeners are treated to a selection of yuletide classics and big band favorites. This episode offers a warm, musical celebration of the holiday season, showcasing Miller's signature sound that has captivated audiences for decades. Together, these episodes offer a rich tapestry of holiday entertainment, blending comedy, music, and goodwill, perfect for ushering in the festive spirit on Vintage Classic Radio.

Join us this week on Vintage Classic Radio for a special holiday edition of "Friday Night Noir." We kick off with "Escape," featuring the chilling tale "Back for Christmas," originally aired on December 24, 1947. This suspenseful episode follows Professor Herbert Carpenter as he meticulously plans to murder his overbearing wife before a holiday trip, intending to return home alone, but fate has other plans. The stellar cast includes Paul Frees as Herbert Carpenter, Eleanor Audley as his unsuspecting wife Hermione, and William Conrad lending his voice to the role of a curious contractor. Continuing the holiday suspense, we delve into "Suspense" and its episode "Dog Star," which first enthralled listeners on December 22, 1957. A heartwarming yet thrilling story unfolds around James Congreve, a scientist whose life is saved by his loyal dog, Rex, during a laboratory accident. However, when a potential disaster looms, Rex's uncanny abilities are put to the test in an unexpected twist. The episode features George Walsh as James Congreve, Jeanette Nolan as his supportive wife Ellen, and Joseph Kearns portraying Dr. Mason, Congreve's skeptical colleague. Tune in to Vintage Classic Radio this Friday night to experience these captivating stories from the golden age of radio, brought to life by a talented cast that continues to thrill and engage audiences even today.

In this week’s episode of “Tuesday Night Detectives” on Vintage Classic Radio, we dive into the festive spirit with a special feature of classic radio detective shows. First up, we have "Richard Diamond, Private Detective" in the episode titled “A Christmas Carol.” Originally aired on December 21, 1951, this episode follows the suave detective Richard Diamond, played by Dick Powell, as he finds himself under the Christmas tree in a rather unusual manner. It's Christmas Eve, and Diamond stumbles upon a plot to rob a charitable mission. With his quick wit and sharp instincts, Diamond turns the tables on the crooks, ensuring a merry Christmas for all. The episode features a stellar cast including Virginia Gregg, Ed Begley, and Wilms Herbert, bringing to life a story filled with holiday cheer and suspense. Following that, we revisit “Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar” in the episode “Missing Mouse,” which first captivated audiences on December 23, 1956. America’s fabulous freelance insurance investigator, Johnny Dollar—portrayed by Bob Bailey—takes on a peculiar case involving the disappearance of a highly insured lab mouse, leading to unexpected turns and intriguing insurance fraud clues. Alongside Bailey, the episode showcases the talents of Virginia Gregg, playing multiple roles, and features performances by John Dehner and Alan Reed. This episode combines elements of mystery and humor, making it a classic in radio detective lore. Join us as we step back in time and experience the thrilling adventures of two of radio's most beloved detectives, wrapped in the warmth of the holiday season. Whether it’s the charming bravado of Richard Diamond or the meticulous investigations of Johnny Dollar, there’s something in this broadcast for every mystery enthusiast. Tune in and let the intrigue of yesteryears captivate your imagination this Tuesday night.