Our Broadway babe, Randie Levine-Miller, has come up with some nostalgic treasures.  She’s come up with a 1958 TV version of the hit musical, “Kismet”, as well as a BBC-TV production of the charming musical, “She Loves Me”.  There is a hilarious segment from The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson trading barbs with Joan Rivers; and a charming interview from 1956, with Edward R. Murrow, interviewing Frank Sinatra.

Kismet

From 1967, an Armstrong Theater television version of Broadway’s “Kismet” aired on ABC-TV. It was first produced on Broadway in 1953, and won the Tony Award for best musical in 1954..  This TV production stars:  Jose Ferrer, Anna Maria Alberghetti, Barbara Eden, George Chakiris, and Hans Conreid.. Originally broadcast in color, only this black and white kinescope recording survives.  The still (then) very hunky, Robert Goulet, hosts.

She Loves Me

From 1979, the BBC Television production of Sheldon Harnick and Jerry Bock’s “She Loves Me” with book by Joe Masteroff, which first played on Broadway in 1963. British cast includes Gemma Craven, Peter Sallis, David Kernen, Robin Elllis, Diane Langton. This production also aired on PBS-TV’s Great Performances, and it is, indeed, a great performance with a great cast. Truly one of the sweetest shows ever written…a real treat!

Joan Rivers on “The Tonight Show”

 From 1986, this is a terrific segment of Joan Rivers appearing on “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson.  She is promoting her book, “Enter Talking” and she is truly hilarious.  They reminisce about her career —she is wearing the same outfit she wore 21 years before, when she made her debut with Carson. He always was her best audience, and she dedicated her book to him, “first to Edgar, because I have to as he made the book happen. And to Johnny, for making everything happen!”  And yes, they had an affair!  You can google and find out more!

Frank Sinatra interviewed by Edward R. Murrow

From 1956, Legendary CBS broadcaster, Edward R. Murrow interviews a youngish Frank Sinatra on his popular program, “Person to Person”, in which Ed gives us a tour of Sinatra’s new home. Sinatra comes across as sweet and humble. This was not long after he made his major movie come-back and was on his way back to major stardom. It’s an intimate interview. At that time, Sinatra had been in the business about 20 years, and had experienced ups and downs. At this time, he was on his way up again and of course, we all know that he became the most important man in show business. He credits Bob Hope with getting him back on track!