CBS salutes Bing Crosby on his 20th year in radio.              

Senator Robert A. Taft talk on US foreign policy, says it was a mistake to commit US troops to Korea, doubts outcome of the war.        

Bond program features Private Eddie Fisher, Sgt. John Pitman, (Medal Of Honor winner Korean war) and General Leroy Collins.                       

June 7th, 1952-August 30th, 1952 (NBC)

Jerry Lester, former host of Broadway Open House, emceed this variety hour, a summer replacement for Sid Caesar's "Your Show Of Shows." 

July 27, 1953- September 24, 1954   

Prior to Steve Allen hosting The Tonight Show (Sept. 27, 1954-Jan. 25,1957...originally titled Tonight!) on network T.V. he hosted a similar late night show locally in New York City called The Steve Allen Show Presented by Knickerbocker Beer. It was seen in only three states, New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut (11:20pm-midnight). These Monday through Friday 40 minute telecasts included regulars, Steve Lawrence, Helene Dixon and Bobby Bryne and his orchestra. Sponsor was Knickerbocker beer on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only.  

Sponsored by Knickerbocker Beer (on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only) on NBC Local, it was seen in only three states: New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut from 11:20pm to Midnight, Monday to Friday, 40 minutes long, broadcast from July 27, 1953 to September 24, 1954. "The Steve Allen Show presented by Knickerbocker Beer" on NBC Local was the forerunner of the NBC National broadcast of "Tonight Starring Steve Allen" which began its official debut on September 27, 1954.

Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show.

 This is the oldest known broadcast record of Steve Allen's 14 month local  Pre-Tonight Show run, prior to National Tonight! broadcasts which premiered September 27, 1954.  

NOTE:

Five Steve Allen Knickerbocker COMPLETE TV broadcasts (August 31, September 1, 2, 3, 4, 1953) were originally discovered (NBC 16" ORTHACOUSSIC NBC RADIO-RECORDING DIVISION discs) in 2008. They were for sale in a Burlington County New Jersey store that sold old Gramophones, Victrola's and Edison Cylinder machines. 

A rare discovery for only two kinescopes are known, by this author, Phil Gries, to survive, archived at the NBC Archives (December 30, 1953, and August 31. 1954).                                                                                          

July 27, 1953- September 24, 1954   

Prior to Steve Allen hosting The Tonight Show (Sept. 27, 1954-Jan. 25,1957) on network T.V. he hosted a similar late night show locally in New York City called the The Steve Allen Show Presented by Knickerbocker Beer (11:20pm-midnight). These Monday through Friday 40 minute telecasts included regulars, Steve Lawrence, Helene Dixon and Bobby Bryne and his orchestra. Sponsor was Knickerbocker beer on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday, only.  

This is the 27th broadcast in the series. Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show. Steve Allen, at the piano, sings "Cecilia." Jim Moran, who appears every Tuesday on the broadcast discusses with Allen "Oysters," as the Oyster season begins. Author James Michener joins in and also discusses his latest movie adaptation screenplay for the film "Return To Paradise," about to open in theaters nation wide. This was the first theatrical contribution for Michener in his literary career. 

Incredible relaxed late night television from a bygone era as Steve offers a beer to Mitchener in-between anecdotes. Steve Lawrence, who just turned 18 years of age, sings "C'est si bon."   Bobby Byrne & his orchestra plays "Lover." Sign off, as Steve reminds viewers that this new late night series is on the air every weekday night for 40 minutes, 11:20pm to Midnight. Cast sings theme song "Stay Just A Little While With Me."  

     Sponsored by Knickerbocker Beer (on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only) on NBC Local, it was seen in only three states: New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut from 11:20pm to Midnight, Monday to Friday, 40 minutes long, broadcast from July 27, 1953 to September 24, 1954. "The Steve Allen Show presented by Knickerbocker Beer" on NBC Local was the forerunner of the NBC National broadcast of "Tonight Starring Steve Allen" which began its official debut on September 27, 1954.

Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show.    

  NOTE:

Five Steve Allen Knickerbocker COMPLETE TV broadcasts (August 31, September 1, 2, 3, 4, 1953) were originally discovered (NBC 16" ORTHACOUSSIC NBC RADIO-RECORDING DIVISION discs) in 2008. They were for sale in a Burlington County New Jersey store that sold old Gramophones, Victrola's and Edison Cylinder machines. 

A rare discovery for only two kinescopes are known, by this author, Phil Gries, to survive, archived at the NBC Archives (December 30, 1953, and August 31. 1954).                                                                              

July 27, 1953- September 24, 1954   

Prior to Steve Allen hosting The Tonight Show (Sept. 27, 1954-Jan. 25,1957) on network T.V. he hosted a similar late night show locally in New York City called the The Steve Allen Show Presented by Knickerbocker Beer (11:20pm-midnight). These Monday through Friday 40 minute telecasts included regulars, Steve Lawrence, Helene Dixon and Bobby Bryne and his orchestra. Sponsor was Knickerbocker beer on Wednesday, Thursday & Friday only.  

    Sponsored by Knickerbocker Beer (on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only) on NBC Local, it was seen in only three states: New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut from 11:20pm to Midnight, Monday to Friday, 40 minutes long, broadcast from July 27, 1953 to September 24, 1954. "The Steve Allen Show presented by Knickerbocker Beer" on NBC Local was the forerunner of the NBC National broadcast of "Tonight Starring Steve Allen" which began its official debut on September 27, 1954.

Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show.   

  NOTE:

Five Steve Allen Knickerbocker COMPLETE TV broadcasts (August 31, September 1, 2, 3, 4, 1953) were originally discovered (NBC 16" ORTHACOUSSIC NBC RADIO-RECORDING DIVISION discs) in 2008. They were for sale in a Burlington County New Jersey store that sold old Gramophones, Victrola's and Edison Cylinder machines. 

A rare discovery for only two kinescopes are known, by this author, Phil Gries, to survive, archived at the NBC Archives (December 30, 1953, and August 31. 1954).                                                                                

July 27, 1953- September 24, 1954   

Prior to Steve Allen hosting The Tonight Show (Sept. 27, 1954-Jan. 25,1957) on network T.V. he hosted a similar late night show locally in New York City called The Steve Allen Show Presented by Knickerbocker Beer. (11:20pm-midnight). These Monday through Friday 40 minute telecasts included regulars, Steve Lawrence, Helene Dixon and Bobby Bryne and his orchestra. Sponsor was Knickerbocker beer on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.  

NOTE:

Five Steve Allen Knickerbocker COMPLETE TV broadcasts (August 31, September 1, 2, 3, 4, 1953) were originally discovered (NBC 16" ORTHACOUSSIC NBC RADIO-RECORDING DIVISION discs) in 2008. They were for sale in a Burlington County New Jersey store that sold old Gramophones, Victrola's and Edison Cylinder machines. 

A rare discovery for only two kinescopes are known, by this author, Phil Gries, to survive, archived at the NBC Archives (December 30, 1953, and August 31. 1954).

    Sponsored by Knickerbocker Beer (on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only) on NBC Local, it was seen in only three states: New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut from 11:20pm to Midnight, Monday to Friday, 40 minutes long, broadcast from July 27, 1953 to September 24, 1954. "The Steve Allen Show presented by Knickerbocker Beer" on NBC Local was the forerunner of the NBC National broadcast of "Tonight Starring Steve Allen" which began its official debut on September 27, 1954.

Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show.                                                                       

July 27, 1953- September 24, 1954   

 Steve starts the show singing, "Tea For Two." Guest is Lyle Fitzsimmons, "Queen of The Coney Island Mardi Gras." The cast does, "Were Your There?" the landing of the Mayflower. Steve and Helene sing a duet to, "Side By Side."

Prior to Steve Allen hosting The Tonight Show (Sept. 27, 1954-Jan. 25,1957) on network T.V. he hosted a similar late night show locally in New York City called The Steve Allen Show Presented by Knickerbocker Beer. (11:20pm-midnight). These Monday through Friday 40 minute telecasts included regulars, Steve Lawrence, Helene Dixon and Bobby Bryne and his orchestra. Sponsor was Knickerbocker beer on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.   

Note: SOME VARIATIONS IN SOUND QUALITY. 

  Sponsored by Knickerbocker Beer (on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only) on NBC Local, it was seen in only three states: New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut from 11:20pm to Midnight, Monday to Friday, 40 minutes long, broadcast from July 27, 1953 to September 24, 1954. "The Steve Allen Show presented by Knickerbocker Beer" on NBC Local was the forerunner of the NBC National broadcast of "Tonight Starring Steve Allen" which began its official debut on September 27, 1954.

Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show.   

  NOTE:

Five Steve Allen Knickerbocker COMPLETE TV broadcasts (August 31, September 1, 2, 3, 4, 1953) were originally discovered (NBC 16" ORTHACOUSSIC NBC RADIO-RECORDING DIVISION discs) in 2008. They were for sale in a Burlington County New Jersey store that sold old Gramophones, Victrola's and Edison Cylinder machines. 

A rare discovery for only two kinescopes are known, by this author, Phil Gries, to survive, archived at the NBC Archives (December 30, 1953, and August 31. 1954).                                                                                                

Sponsored by Knickerbocker Beer (on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only) on NBC Local, it was seen in only three states: New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut from 11:20pm to Midnight, Monday to Friday, 40 minutes long, broadcast from July 27, 1953 to September 24, 1954. "The Steve Allen Show presented by Knickerbocker Beer" on NBC Local was the forerunner of the NBC National broadcast of "Tonight Starring Steve Allen" which began its official debut on September 27, 1954.

Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show.
NOTE:
After a successful fourteen-month local run, THE STEVE ALLEN SHOW became a network show. Beginning September 27, 1954, the show retitled TONIGHT!, and expanded to 105 minutes from 40 minutes. 
 
NOTE: Sound of this Television Audio Air Check is PRISTINE. A rare return to an early television broadcast when Late Night Television was so informal and relaxed with open ended time dedicated to a person, topic, music, or just impromptu  comedy.                      

July 3rd, 1954-September 18th, 1954 (CBS)
October 1st, 1955-September 22nd, 1956 (CBS)      

Musical variety series hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. 
Introduced as a one-hour show in 1954, it was a summer replacement for the Jackie Gleason Show. Gleason resurrected the show in the fall of 1955, trimming it to a half-hour, preceding his own show.  In 1956, comedian Jack Carter became the permanent emcee of the show, which saw both Elvis Presley and Bobby Darin make their national TV debuts.   

Guests: Jack E. Leonard, DeMarco Sisters.              

July 3rd, 1954-September 18th, 1954 (CBS)
October 1st, 1955-September 22nd, 1956 (CBS)      

Musical variety series hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. 
Introduced as a one-hour show in 1954, it was a summer replacement for the Jackie Gleason Show. Gleason resurrected the show in the fall of 1955, trimming it to a half-hour, preceding his own show.  In 1956, comedian Jack Carter became the permanent emcee of the show, which saw both Elvis Presley and Bobby Darin make their national TV debuts.   

Guests: Tony Bennett, DeMarco Sisters.                        

July 3rd, 1954-September 18th, 1954 (CBS)
October 1st, 1955-September 22nd, 1956 (CBS)      

Musical variety series hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. 
Introduced as a one-hour show in 1954, it was a summer replacement for the Jackie Gleason Show. Gleason resurrected the show in the fall of 1955, trimming it to a half-hour, preceding his own show.  In 1956, comedian Jack Carter became the permanent emcee of the show, which saw both Elvis Presley and Bobby Darin make their national TV debuts.   

Guests: Henny Youngman, Jimmy Nelson, Betty Riley, Clark Brothers, The DeMathazzis.                      

July 3rd, 1954-September 18th, 1954 (CBS)
October 1st, 1955-September 22nd, 1956 (CBS)      

Musical variety series hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. 
Introduced as a one-hour show in 1954, it was a summer replacement for the Jackie Gleason Show. Gleason resurrected the show in the fall of 1955, trimming it to a half-hour, preceding his own show.  In 1956, comedian Jack Carter became the permanent emcee of the show, which saw both Elvis Presley and Bobby Darin make their national TV debuts.   

Guest: Jean Carroll.                              

       Sponsored by Knickerbocker Beer (on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only) on NBC Local, it was seen in only three states: New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut from 11:20pm to Midnight, Monday to Friday, 40 minutes long, broadcast from July 27, 1953 to September 24, 1954. "The Steve Allen Show presented by Knickerbocker Beer" on NBC Local was the forerunner of the NBC National broadcast of "Tonight Starring Steve Allen" which began its official debut on September 27, 1954.

Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show.

After a successful fourteen-month local run, THE STEVE ALLEN SHOW became a network show. Beginning September 27, 1954, the show retitled TONIGHT!, and expanded to 105 minutes from 40 minutes. 
 
NOTE: Sound of this Television Audio Air Check is PRISTINE. A rare return to an early television broadcast when Late Night Television was so informal and relaxed with open ended time dedicated to a person, topic, music, or just impromptu  comedy.                           

      Sponsored by Knickerbocker Beer (on Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday only) on NBC Local, it was seen in only three states: New York, New Jersey, & Connecticut from 11:20pm to Midnight, Monday to Friday, 40 minutes long, broadcast from July 27, 1953 to September 24, 1954. "The Steve Allen Show presented by Knickerbocker Beer" on NBC Local was the forerunner of the NBC National broadcast of "Tonight Starring Steve Allen" which began its official debut on September 27, 1954.

Broadcast theme song, "Stay Just A Little While With Me," opens the show.

NOTE:
After a successful fourteen-month local run, THE STEVE ALLEN SHOW became a network show. Beginning September 27, 1954, the show retitled TONIGHT!, and expanded to 105 minutes from 40 minutes. 
 
NOTE: Sound of this Television Audio Air Check is PRISTINE. A rare return to an early television broadcast when Late Night Television was so informal and relaxed with open ended time dedicated to a person, topic, music, or just impromptu  comedy.                                        

Presented on "MAX LIEBMAN PRESENTS." This was the first of Max Liebman's "Spectaculars," starring Betty Hutton in an original musical comedy vehicle about a romance between a rodeo queen and a writer-photographer who is doing an article about her. No open. Some sound variations.

September 30th, 1954-April 17th, 1958 (CBS)

Shower Of Stars was a once-a-month replacement series for CBS's popular Thursday night entry, "Climax," with host William Lundigan. A wide variety of shows took place including a variety of spectaculars and dramatic shows. The show was first hosted by William Lundigan who was later replaced by Jack Benny.

Guests: Frankie Laine, Marilyn Maxwell, Gracie Allen. Frankie and Marilyn sing a duet, " Love In Blume." 
Gracie Allen does a comedy skit with Jack Benny. Jack does a skit entitled, "The Sportsman."         
William Lundigan does a commercial for Chrysler Corporation.

July 3rd, 1954-September 18th, 1954 (CBS)
October 1st, 1955-September 22nd, 1956 (CBS)      

Musical variety series hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. 
Introduced as a one-hour show in 1954, it was a summer replacement for the Jackie Gleason Show. Gleason resurrected the show in the fall of 1955, trimming it to a half-hour, preceding his own show.  In 1956, comedian Jack Carter became the permanent emcee of the show, which saw both Elvis Presley and Bobby Darin make their national TV debuts.   

Guest: Frank Fontaine, who sings "When You're Smiling" and performs a skit based on the character John L.C. Savonne. The Savonne character preceeded Fontaine's "Crazy Guggenheim" character in the "Joe The Bartender" skits he performed on The Jackie Gleason Show. 

September 30th, 1954-April 17th, 1958 (CBS)

Shower Of Stars was a once-a-month replacement series for CBS's popular Thursday night entry, "Climax," with host William Lundigan. A wide variety of shows took place including a variety of spectaculars and dramatic shows. The show was first hosted by William Lundigan who was later replaced by Jack Benny.

Guest: Morey Amsterdam does a standup comedy routine. 

September 30th, 1954-April 17th, 1958 (CBS)

Shower Of Stars was a once-a-month replacement series for CBS's popular Thursday night entry, "Climax," with host William Lundigan. A wide variety of shows took place including a variety of spectaculars and dramatic shows. The show was first hosted by William Lundigan who was later replaced by Jack Benny.

The Andrew Sisters sing a medley of songs.                       

September 27th, 1954- January 25th, 1957 (NBC)

Starring Steve Allen. 

The following are excerpts from Steve Allen Tonight Shows of March 6th, 7, 8, 9, 12, 1956

Highlights: 

Orchestra plays "Mambo The Most." 

Steve Lawrence and Doc Severinsen "Young Man With a Horn" 

Eydie Gorme sings "Too Close For Comfort"

Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme sing "A Fine Romance"

Joe Bushkin plays on piano "Hallelujah" from his album "Midnight Rhapsody"

Bushkin also plays "September Song"

"The Mouth Mansfield Blues" Skitch Henderson and Orchestra 

Pat Kirby sings "Young Love"

Andy Williams sings "Caprice in May" 

Meg Miles sings "13 Men and Only One Gal in Town" and "Can't Help Loving Dat Man" on program of March 7th, 1956. 

Andy Williams sings "I'll Never Smile Again" 

Blues and jazz saxophonist Sam "The Man" Taylor plays "Harlem Nocturne" and "Cloud Burst"

March 6th, 1956- Woody Herman and his Orchestra play "The Square Circle "

Steve Allen and Woody Herman talk about drummer Will Bradley Jr.
and Bill Harris, Jr.

Victor Feldman playing vibes

Woody Herman sings "Stars Fell On Alabama" 




                                                                                      

      Stage Show with Jimmy and Tommy Dorsey. Guest headliners are all musical. Singer Dick Haymes, song stylist, Roberta Sherwood, in a return engagement, and the Hines Brothers...all perform to music by the Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey Brothers orchestra.       

Commercials included in this TV Audio Air Check are, Jergens Woodbury beauty bar, Crosley and Bandix Home Appliances, Crosley radio and Television, and Viceroy Cigarettes.



 Premiere broadcast.



 June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.             

July 3rd, 1954-September 18th, 1954 (CBS)
October 1st, 1955-September 22nd, 1956 (CBS)      

Musical variety series hosted by Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey. 
Introduced as a one-hour show in 1954, it was a summer replacement for the Jackie Gleason Show. Gleason resurrected the show in the fall of 1955, trimming it to a half-hour, preceding his own show.  In 1956, comedian Jack Carter became the permanent emcee of the show, which saw both Elvis Presley and Bobby Darin make their national TV debuts.   

Guest: Comedian Wally Brown.                  

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Guest: Andy Griffith chats with Steve about upcoming movie "A Face In The Crowd," which begins filming in August with Elia Kazan. 
Griffith also does a monologue.                     

A bachelor account executive with an advertising agency,thinks he has the perfect set-up with three girlfriends. But his secretary Marion is devoted to him and will do anything for him. Music and lyrics by Steve Allen. Program begins with Allen's signature song, "This Could Be The Start Of Something Big." Directed by Joseph Cates.                                                                           

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Guests: The Four Lads, sing, "Standing On The Corner."                                     

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Dixieland jazz music.                                             

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Guests: Smith and Dale, Steve Lawrence.
Satire on early radio announcers.                                          

Brooklyn Dodger pitcher Sal Maglie, acquired from the Cleveland Indians, pitches a 5-0 shutout no-hitter vs. the Philadelphia Phillies at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn. Maglie retires Phillie first baseman Marv Blaylock on a ground out to end the game and join baseball immortality. Play begins in the top of the ninth inning with Al Helfer at the television microphones and the Dodgers leading 5-0. Helfer announces that Happy Felton's "Talk To The Stars" program will follow the game. When the game ends, Helfer proclaims " Ladies and Gentlemen, a no-hitter for Sal Maglie." Maglie becomes the oldest pitcher to toss a no-hitter since Cy Young in 1908.

Brooklyn Dodger pitcher Sal Maglie, acquired from the Cleveland Indians, pitches a 5-0 shutout no-hitter vs. the Philadelphia Phillies at Ebbets Field in Brooklyn. Maglie retires Phillie first baseman Marv Blaylock on a ground out to end the game and join baseball immortality. Play begins in the top of the ninth inning with Al Helfer at the television microphones and the Dodgers leading 5-0. Helfer announces that Happy Felton's "Talk To The Stars" program will follow the game. When the game ends, Helfer proclaims " Ladies and Gentlemen, a no-hitter for Sal Maglie." Maglie becomes the oldest pitcher to toss a no-hitter since Cy Young in 1908.

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Guests: Abbott and Costello perform their "Who's On First?" routine.                              

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Steve Allen Pays Tribute To James Dean On The First Anniversary Of His Death.                                    

Various personalities question members of the Republican party.
Personalities include actress Helen Hayes, Admiral Thomas F. Connolly and Dr. Norman Vincent Peale.                        

Rebels say Russian troops launched an attack in Budapest, they urge the United Nations to send paratroops, Imre Nagy tells Russians to begin withdrawing from the country as fighting continues.                                      

October 5th, 1951- July 31st, 1959

Live Anthology series featuring both drama and comedy. The title was shortened to Schlitz Playhouse in the fall of 1957. It was hosted for several seasons by Irene Dunne and later by Robert Paige. 
This episode starred James Dean in "The Unlighted Road." Originally broadcast on May 6th, 1955, it was Dean's last dramatic appearance on television.                                     

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Guests: The Bickerson's, Lew Parker, Betty Keane.                                 

Hemo comes from the Greek word for blood and tonight's one-hour film is about our blood, how it circulates and what its functions are. One way of showing these things will be through the use of animated cartoons and cartoon characters such as Hemo himself, Professor Anatomy and the pacemaker. There will also be special medical films, and the whole show will be tied together through the appearance of Dr. Research and The Fiction Writer, as they try to visualize our circulatory system. 
The show will open with a Chronicle of  man's knowledge about blood. Then animated sequences will show the heart pumping blood, the lungs slipping oxygen into it and other organs in the system functioning. The intricate system of tubes, arteries, capillaries, and veins, that conduct the blood on its errands, is geographically presented. A theory is offered to account for the presence of blood in man, and microscopic film shots show the capillaries in action. We see what happens to the blood in a knockout and in a state of shock.
Dr. Research is played by Dr. Frank Baxter, who performed the same role in "Our Mr. Sun." Actor Richard Carlson plays The Fiction Writer. Written and directed by Frank Capra. Educational film from Bell Laboratories. 

September 30th, 1954-April 17th, 1958 (CBS)

Shower Of Stars was a once-a-month replacement series for CBS's popular Thursday night entry, "Climax," with host William Lundigan. A wide variety of shows took place including a variety of spectaculars and dramatic shows. The show was first hosted by William Lundigan who was later replaced by Jack Benny.

This episode stars Tallulah Bankhead, Ed Wynn, Jack Benny, and Bert Lahr.                         

Baseball personalities on this television special ushering in the start of the 1957 baseball season include Johnny Antonelli of the New York Giants, Don Larsen, Bob Friend, Billy Pierce, Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Joe DiMaggio, Mel Allen, and Ed Gardner. Mel Allen recreates Don Larsen's perfect game. Gene Kelly is the host. 
Highlights:
Gene talks to Don Larsen about his no windup pitching approach.
Also, Gene in conversation with Billy Pierce, Johnny Antonelli, and Bib Friend. Kelly introduces Ed Gardner...comedy routine about Baseball's greatest pitchers.  

In a brief segment,  Mel Allen states his dream outfield. Gene Kelly talks with Stan Musial, who states that his favorite ball player was Mel Ott, Ted Williams, chairman of the Jimmy Fund  states that his favorite baseball player was Joe DiMaggio, and DiMaggio's favorite ball player was Frank Lefty Odeul. Gene Kelly mentions that his favorite Baseball Player of all time was Babe Ruth. 

NOTE: An almost complete air check of this program is archived in the ATA collection.                                                 

Baseball personalities on this television special ushering in the start of the 1957 baseball season include Johnny Antonelli of the New York Giants, Don Larsen, Bob Friend, Billy Pierce, Ted Williams, Stan Musial, Joe DiMaggio, Mel Allen, Ernie Banks, George Kell, Harvey Kuenn, Ted Kluszewski, Ed Matthews, 
Don Newcombe, Pee Wee Reese, Robin Roberts, Herb Score, Harry (Suitcase) Simpson, Eddie Yost, and Happy Felton and his Knothole Gang. Mel Allen recreates Don Larsen's perfect game. Show Business guests include: comedians Ed "Archie" Gardner, Paul Winchell, Jerry Mahoney, Frank Fontaine, singers Tony Bennett, Pat Marshall, and Bill Hayes, Singer-comedienne Janis Paige, actors Robert Alda and Robert Strauss. Also participating are baseball commissioner Ford Frick, sportscaster Mel Allen, and baseball Hall Of Fame members Joe DiMaggio, Pie Traynor, Lefty Grove, and Gabby Hartnett. Gene Kelly is the host. 

Highlights:
Gene talks to Don Larsen about his no windup pitching approach.
Also, Gene in conversation with Billy Pierce, Johnny Antonelli, and Bob Friend. Kelly introduces Ed Gardner...comedy routine about Baseball's greatest pitchers.  

In a brief segment,  Mel Allen states his dream outfield. Gene Kelly talks with Stan Musial, who states that his favorite ball player was Mel Ott, Ted Williams, chairman of the Jimmy Fund  states that his favorite baseball player was Joe DiMaggio, and DiMaggio's favorite ball player was Frank Lefty Odeul. Gene Kelly mentions that his favorite Baseball Player of all time was Babe Ruth. 

Other Highlights: 

"This Is The Year" Ensemble
1956 Most Valuable Players: Mickey Mantle, Don Newcombe
Sketch: "Rookie Of The Year" Robert Alda
Song: Janis Paige
World Series Film: Gene Kelly
Interview: Don Larsen, Gene Kelly
" Know-How" Kelly, Paige, Tony Bennett, Paul Winchell, Jerry Mahoney, Robert Alda
Knothole Gang- Happy Felton
Dugout Sketch- Paul Winchell, Jerry Mahoney
Song- Tony Bennett 
Pitchers Interview- Gene Kelly
"Two-top Gruskin" Ed Gardner, Robert Alda
Baseball Medley- Ensemble
Song- Pat Marshall
Dream Outfield- DiMaggio, Williams, Musial
Waite Hoyt's Tribute To Babe Ruth- Gene Kelly
Old-Timer's Film- Mel Allen
Rock-'n'Roll Number- Bill Hayes
Comedy Interview- Robert.Alda
Commissioner's Message: Ford Frick
Hall Of Fame Sequence- Gene Kelly
Finale- Ensemble 
                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr. Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Steve Allen's guests are Mickey Rooney and Joey Forman and The Muppets.                                                                             

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr. Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Steve Allen's guests are the Will Mastin Trio with Sammy Davis Jr.                                                                                         

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr. Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Guest: Don Adams. A baseball routine about umpires is performed.                                                                                                               

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr. Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Guests: Abbe Lane, Meg Miles, Erin O'Brien.    

Highlights: "Where's The Happy Ending?"- Erin O'Brien
"All Of You," -  Abbe Lane and Meg Miles - "Melancholy Baby."                                                                                                                                

June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr. Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.    

Guest: Meg Myles who sings "My Melancholy Baby,"                                                                                                                             

Commercials included in this TV Audio Air Check are, Jergens Woodbury beauty bar, Crosley and Bandix Home Appliances, Crosley radio and Television, and Viceroy Cigarettes.


June 24, 1956-December 27, 1961.
The multi-talented Steve Allen- musician, composer, singer, comedian,author- was the star of this live weekly variety series that bore a strong resemblance to his informal, late-night Tonight! Show. Although the program had elements of music and serious aspects, comedy was far and away its major component. Steve had with him one of the most versatile and talented collections of improvisational comics ever assembled. Among the features that were used at one time or another on a semi-regular basis were: "Letters to the Editor," "The Allen Report to the Nation," "Mad-Libs," "Crazy Shots," "Where Are They Now," "The Question Man," "The Allen Bureau of Standards," and "The Allen All Stars." The most frequently used feature, and by far the most memorable, was the "Man on the Street Interview." It was here that the comics on the show developed their  best-remembered characters: Louis Nye as suave, smug Gordon Hathaway, Tom Poston as the man who can't remember his own name, Skitch Henderson as Sidney Ferguson, Don Knotts as the extremely nervous and fidgety Mr Morrison, Pat Harrington as Italian golf pro Guido Panzini, and Bill Dana as shy Jose Jimenez.      

Steve's guests are Bob Hope, George Jessel, and former New York City Mayor Jimmy Walker (on film). A tribute is given to Walker.