db/migrations/005-descriptions.sql

@@ -114,52 +114,287 @@ The cast included Roger Dressler as Narrator & Commissioner Matthew White, Linda
 Alien Worlds was enjoyed by millions of fans worldwide and was carried by over 1500 top-rated FM radio stations. Four additional episodes were produced but never aired.
 
 - Alka Seltzer Time [alka-seltzer-time]
+
+Alka-Seltzer Time (also known as The Alka-Seltzer Show) was a 15-minute weekday radio series that aired on CBS Radio and the Mutual Broadcasting System from 1949 to 1954. The show featured baritone Curt Massey and Martha Tilton, also known as "the liltin' Martha Tilton", who performed "informal song sessions" with Country Washburne and His Orchestra. The announcer was Ford Pearson. The show included a variety of popular songs and some theme shows such as "Go West" and "Salute to Hawaii". Martha Tilton was a popular jazz singer who had worked with the likes of Jimmy Dorsey and Benny Goodman, while Curt Massey was a talented musician and composer, best remembered as the composer and singer of the Petticoat Junction TV show theme song. The pair continued to perform together during the late 1950s, even recording an album, "We Sing the Old Songs" (1957).
+
 - All Star Western Theatre [all-star-western-theatre]
+
+All Star Western Theatre was a popular radio show in the mid-1940s, offering listeners a unique blend of adventure, broad humor, and musical variety. Set against a Western backdrop, the show featured performances by "The Riders of the Purple Sage," fronted by Foy Willing. Guest stars like Johnny Mack Brown made appearances in action sketches and humorous skits that provided a light-hearted alternative to more intense radio programs.
+
+Created in Hollywood, the show featured Western swing music, a popular style in that era, and was recorded live in front of a studio audience. The All Star Western Theatre shared a similar format with Roy Rogers' radio show, in which Foy Willing and the Riders of the Purple Sage also performed. Today, 66 out of the 78 produced episodes are available for fans to enjoy, transporting listeners on a nostalgic journey through the entertaining world of Old Time Radio.
+
 - Amos 'n' Andy [amos-n-andy]
+
+"Amos 'n' Andy" was an American radio sitcom that originally aired from 1928 to 1960. Created, written, and voiced by white actors Freeman Gosden and Charles Correll, the show followed the lives of two black characters, Amos Jones (Gosden) and Andrew Hogg Brown (Correll). Beginning as a nightly radio serial, it later transitioned to a weekly situation comedy and then to a nightly disc-jockey program. The show also had a television adaptation on CBS from 1951 to 1953, with black actors taking over the roles.
+
+Gosden and Correll met in 1920 and started their radio careers in Chicago before launching "Amos 'n' Andy" in 1928. Although criticized for relying on racial stereotypes and its blackface origins, the show became a national sensation, particularly during the 1930s. Its nationwide audience was estimated at 40 million, and the show's influence on American entertainment is undeniable. The end of its run coincided with changing perceptions of its portrayal of racial stereotypes.
+
 - An Evening With Groucho [an-evening-with-groucho]
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+An Evening with Groucho is a captivating look at the life of the renowned comedian Groucho Marx and the Marx Brothers, as narrated by Groucho himself. Born Julius Henry Marx in 1890, Groucho started his stage career aged 15 and eventually found success alongside his brothers in the musical comedy, I'll Say She Is. He became famous for his characteristic stooped posture, glasses, cigar, and thick greasepaint mustache and eyebrows.
+
+The show is crafted from three separate performances in 1972: New York's Carnegie Hall, C.Y. Stephens Auditorium at Iowa State University, and San Francisco's Masonic Auditorium. Groucho shares personal stories and performs songs from Marx Brothers' stage shows and movies. The Carnegie Hall show features an introduction by Dick Cavett, and Marvin Hamlisch provides an opening overture and piano accompaniment. The recording was released as a double album by A&M Records, with a limited edition edited single picture disc in 1978 and a compact disc version later available. In 2018, An Evening with Groucho was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress due to its cultural, historical, and artistic significance.
+
 - Arch Oboler's Plays [arch-obolers-plays]
+
+Arch Oboler's Plays was a radio anthology series that aired on NBC Radio from March 25, 1939, to March 23, 1940, and was later revived on Mutual from April 5 to October 11, 1945. Created, written, produced, and directed by Arch Oboler, the show featured original works of fiction that explored the human psyche and were known for their stream-of-consciousness technique. The series was the first to have a writer's name in the title, paving the way for radio as an art form. The show boasted a stellar lineup of leading film actors, such as Ingrid Bergman, James Cagney, Katharine Hepburn, and Peter Lorre.
+
+Oboler, known for his eccentric personality and innovative storytelling techniques, gained popularity for his work on Lights Out which experimented with sound effects and bold narratives that sparked controversies. In his venture, Arch Oboler's Plays, he used some of his scripts in his later series, Everyman's Theater. As a staunch anti-Nazi, he also included anti-Fascist themes in his work, especially during World War II.
+
+In 2020, the November 18, 1939 episode "The Bathysphere" was added to the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry for its cultural, historical, and aesthetic importance.
+
 - Archie Andrews [archie-andrews]
+
+Archie Andrews was an Old Time Radio sitcom adapted from the popular comic strip of the same name. The show's purpose was to target and engage a teenage audience, delivering situation comedy both on air and during live broadcasts. Airing from May 31, 1943, to September 5, 1953, the show was broadcast across Blue Network, Mutual, and NBC at different periods. It was produced by Kenneth W. MacGregor, with music by George Wright and sound effects by Agnew Horine.
+
+The story revolves around Archie Andrews, played by various actors including Charles Mullen, Jack Grimes, Burt Boyar, and Bob Hastings. Other notable characters from the comic book, like Jughead Jones, Betty Cooper, Veronica Lodge, and Reggie Mantle, are part of the radio adventures. Set in post-WWII suburban America, the show portrays a lighthearted atmosphere of friendship, love interests, and school life with Archie and his pals.
+
+Not only did the show bring a beloved comic character to the radio, but it also focused on capturing the essence of being a teenager for its audience. The sitcom played a significant role in shaping American radio programming, catering to the interests and preferences of younger listeners during its time.
+
 - Barrie Craig, Confidential Investigator [barrie-craig-confidential-investigator]
+
+Barrie Craig, Confidential Investigator is a detective drama that aired on NBC radio from October 3, 1951, to June 30, 1955. Featuring William Gargan as the voice of New York detective Barrie Craig, this series stood out for its laid-back lead despite the popular hard-boiled detective trend. Originating in New York and later moving to Hollywood, the show presented typical PI adventures with confidentiality being its specialty.
+
+Barrie Craig worked solo from his Madison Avenue office, and the cast included the likes of Ralph Bell, Elspeth Eric, Parker Fennelly, and others. Don Pardo was the announcer for the series. Among Gargan's other roles, he starred as the similar character Martin Kane, Private Eye.
+
+This unique detective series takes listeners on a journey through New York's crime-ridden streets in the post-war era, providing a mix of humor and intrigue in ten digitally restored and remastered episodes.
+
 - Behind the Mike [behind-the-mike]
+
+Behind the Mike was an Old Time Radio show that aired on NBC's Blue Network from September 15, 1940, to April 19, 1942, providing a behind-the-scenes look at radio broadcasting. The show was hosted by the renowned radio personality, Graham McNamee, and featured interviews with various on-air personalities, technicians, engineers, producers, sound effect artists, actors, musicians, and more.
+
+The program was designed to give radio listeners insights into their favorite radio shows, personalities, and the people working behind them. Typically, each episode covered up to six behind-the-scenes stories and featured a "Correspondence Corner" segment in which the host answered questions from listeners about various aspects of radio production. With music provided by Ernie Watson and his orchestra, Behind the Mike was an entertaining and informative show that every radio fan would enjoy.
+
+After McNamee's death on May 9, 1942, the series changed its name to This is the Truth, then Nothing But the Truth, and continued until June 7, 1942. Another program with the title Behind the Mike also aired on CBS Radio during the 1931-32 season.
+
 - Beulah [beulah]
+
+"Beulah" aired on CBS Radio from 1945 to 1954 and on ABC Television from 1950 to 1953. It was the first sitcom to star an African American actress, becoming ABC TV's first hit situation comedy and the first hit TV sitcom without a laugh track. The show revolved around the character Beulah Brown, a housekeeper and cook for the Henderson family. Initially portrayed by white male actor Marlin Hurt, African American actress Hattie McDaniel took over the role in 1947, becoming the first black woman to star in a network radio program. McDaniel was later replaced by Lillian Randolph and then by Amanda Randolph. The show started as a spin-off of the "Fibber McGee & Molly" series and gained popularity for Marlin Hurt's unique portrayal of a black woman, despite controversy surrounding the caricatures of African Americans.
+
 - The Black Museum [black-museum]
+
+"The Black Museum" is a radio crime-drama series produced by Harry Alan Towers, first broadcast in the USA on the Mutual network in 1952 and later in Europe on Radio Luxembourg in 1953. Based on true-life cases from Scotland Yard's Crime Museum, each episode revolves around an item or evidence connected to a murder. Orson Welles narrates and hosts the show, setting the scene and providing commentary throughout the episodes. With scripts written by Ira Marion and music composed by Sidney Torch, the series takes listeners on a journey through grim tales of homicide, adapting stories from the objects housed in the infamous museum previously closed to the general public.
+
 - Blair of the Mounties [blair-of-the-mounties]
+
+Blair of the Mounties is a syndicated 15-minute radio series chronicling the adventures of Sergeant James Blair of the North-West Mounted Police. Over the course of the 39-episode series, which aired for over twenty years on radio stations in the United States, Canada, and Australia, Blair serves in various Canadian locations with the assistance of Corporal Marshal, played by Jack Abbott. The show was written by Colonel Rhys Davies, who also portrayed Blair and based the series on his own experiences as a Canadian Mountie.
+
+Known for its minimal sound effects, the show has been described as both amateurish and fascinating, with Blair sometimes coming off as a bit stuffy. The series originally aired in 1938, though it may have been on air as early as 1935. It is believed to have inspired the Challenge of the Yukon radio series.
+
 - Blondie [blondie]
+
+Blondie is a situational comedy radio show adapted from Chic Young's long-running comic strip featuring the adventures of the Bumstead family. The show aired on multiple networks from 1939 to 1950, with Arthur Lake starring as Dagwood Bumstead and Penny Singleton as Blondie Bumstead for most of its run. The show's premise centered around the life of married couple Blondie and Dagwood as they navigated their daily lives, with Dagwood often getting into humorous mishaps.
+
+Blondie and Dagwood first appeared together on radio in an episode of The Pepsodent Show starring Bob Hope in 1938, and later got their own show in 1939. Throughout its broadcast years, the show was sponsored by companies such as Colgate-Palmolive, Pepsodent Toothpaste, and Camel Cigarettes. The cast featured an array of talented actors and actresses, with Singleton, Ann Rutherford, Alice White, and Patricia Lake all playing the role of Blondie at different times.
+
+The radio show, characterized by light-hearted humor, captured the essence of the comic strip and charmed audiences across America. The show even spawned a successful film series, which ran from 1938 to 1950, with Singleton and Lake reprising their roles as Blondie and Dagwood. Eventually, the radio show ended in 1950, the same year as the Blondie film series.
+
 - Bob and Ray [bob-and-ray]
+
+Bob and Ray were an American comedy duo consisting of comedians Bob Elliott and Ray Goulding, popular for their satirical and deadpan humor. They began their careers as radio announcers in Boston, and their impromptu, pleasant banter led to their own show on WHDH, "Matinee with Bob and Ray," in 1946. This show featured completely improvised and irreverent humor, with the duo showcasing their wit and versatility. A recurring feature was soap opera parodies, such as "The Life and Loves of Linda Lovely". Bob and Ray's later routines were more carefully scripted and timed, allowing them to create classic characters like Wally Ballou, Roving Reporter, and sketch parodies like "Mr. Trace, Keener than Most Persons." Their career spanned over five decades, and this collection showcases their comedic genius, especially during their most polished period of mid-1950s radio.
+
 - Bold Venture [bold-venture]
+
+Bold Venture was a syndicated radio adventure series starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall that aired from 1951 to 1952. Its premise revolved around hotel and boat owner Slate Shannon, played by Bogart, and his ward, Sailor Duval, played by Bacall. Set in the sultry setting of Havana, Cuba, this duo frequently found themselves entangled in adventure, intrigue, and mystery while navigating the Caribbean waters.
+
+Combining elements from Bogart and Bacall's past on-screen collaborations, the show had music by David Rose and scripts by Morton Fine and David Friedkin. Calypso singer King Moses (Jester Hairston) provided musical bridges by threading plot situations into the lyrics of his songs. A total of 57 episodes are now known to exist out of the original 78 episodes produced.
+
+Bold Venture was later brought to television in 1959, produced by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, with a change of setting from Cuba to Trinidad due to unstable conditions in Cuba. The series starred Dane Clark as Slate Shannon, Joan Marshall as Sailor Duval, and Bernie Gozier as King Moses.
+
 - Boston Blackie [boston-blackie]
+
+Boston Blackie is a fictional detective character created by author Jack Boyle. Initially portrayed as a safecracker and jewel thief, he eventually became a detective known as the "enemy to those who make him an enemy, friend to those who have no friend." The character appeared in Columbia Pictures films with Chester Morris playing the lead role between 1941 and 1949.
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+The Boston Blackie radio series began on June 23, 1944, on NBC as a summer replacement for The Amos 'n' Andy Show, starring Chester Morris. Richard Kollmar took over the title role in the series, which was syndicated by Frederic W. Ziv from April 11, 1945, to October 25, 1950. Over 200 episodes were produced during this time, featuring Lesley Woods as Blackie's girlfriend Mary Wesley, Maurice Tarplin as Inspector Farraday, and Jan Miner as Mary in the ZIV syndicated series.
+
+The show followed a formulaic pattern where someone gets into trouble, there is a murder, and Blackie is framed for it. He then escapes police custody, solves the mystery, hands over the criminals to Inspector Farraday, and charms the girl. With light-hearted humor and high production values, the radio series became very popular and has a lasting appeal among fans of detective fiction.
+
 - Box 13 [box-13]
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+Box 13 was a syndicated radio drama that aired in various cities in the United States from October 1947. It starred Alan Ladd as Dan Holiday, a newspaperman turned mystery novelist seeking ideas for his fiction. He placed an ad in the newspaper reading "Adventure wanted, will go anywhere, do anything – write Box 13, Star-Times." Responding to the letters he received, Holiday found himself in various adventures involving crime-solving and mystery. The show was produced by Mayfair Productions and featured Sylvia Picker as Holiday's secretary Suzy and Edmund MacDonald as police Lt. Kling. Several guest actors appeared on the show, and the series was known for its high adventure and storytelling that didn't always involve a murder each week.
+
 - Bright Star [bright-star]
+
+Bright Star, also known as The Irene Dunne and Fred MacMurray Show, was a 30-minute radio comedy-drama that aired for one season from 1952-1953. The show featured renowned film stars Irene Dunne and Fred MacMurray, with Harry von Zell and Wendell Niles as announcers. The storyline focused on the struggles of Susan Armstrong (Dunne), editor of the struggling Hillsdale Morning Star newspaper, and her idealistic star reporter George Harvey (MacMurray). The two often conflicted over stories but had excellent comedic rapport. As a charming show with talented leads, Bright Star is sure to delight fans of Irene Dunne and Fred MacMurray.
+
 - Broadway is My Beat [broadway-is-my-beat]
+
+Broadway is My Beat is a radio crime drama that aired on CBS from February 27, 1949, to August 1, 1954. Set in New York City, the show follows Detective Danny Clover, played by Anthony Ross and later by Larry Thor, as he solves crimes in the bustling Times Square area. Known for its gritty dialogue and authentic city sound effects, the show captivates audiences with its realistic portrayal of life and crime on the "Great White Way." Directed by John Dietz and later by Elliott Lewis, Broadway is My Beat is a hard-boiled detective drama featuring a talented supporting cast and memorable performances. The vivid descriptions and melancholy monologues about the city further enhance the show's appeal to mystery fans.
+
 - Buck Rogers [buck-rogers]
+
+Buck Rogers in the 25th Century was a pioneering science fiction radio drama series, airing from 1932-1936, 1939, 1940, and 1946-1947. Based on the popular novel and comics series, the show followed the thrilling adventures of Buck Rogers, a man from the 20th century who awakens in the 25th century after being trapped in suspended animation. He teams up with brilliant scientist Dr. Huer and Space Corp Lieutenant Wilma Deering to battle evil forces led by the cunning Killer Kane and Ardala Valmar. The series was notable for teaching important life lessons and reflecting the virtues of the American Way.
+
+The show was directed by Carlo De Angelo and Jack Johnstone, and starred a rotating cast of actors including Matt Crowley, Curtis Arnall, Carl Frank, and John Larkin as Buck Rogers. The sound effects were created by Ora Daigle Nichols, and scripts were written by comic strip writer Dick Calkins.
+
+Buck Rogers in the 25th Century was a memorable radio serial that captivated audiences and paved the way for future science fiction programming. Apart from offering exciting space adventures, the show also resonated with the political climate of the time, as it took on an added significance during the tumultuous years leading up to and during World War II. This series has lived on as an essential piece of radio and science fiction history.
+
 - Bulldog Drummond [bulldog-drummond]
+
+Bulldog Drummond is a classic American radio crime drama that aired on Mutual from April 13, 1941, to March 28, 1954. The show's central character, Bulldog Drummond, was created by British author H.C. McNeile and portrayed a relentless British investigator with a knack for crime detection and apprehending criminals. Drummond and his sidekick Denny (played by various actors over the years) solved many murder cases and dealt with radium thieves to counterfeiters. The show was initially set in Great Britain but later moved to the United States.
+
+The series was known for its opening sequence, created by producer-director Himan Brown, featuring foghorn, footsteps, shots, and police whistles. The characters were played by notable actors such as George Coulouris, Santos Ortega, Ned Wever, Cedric Hardwicke, Everett Sloane, Luis van Rooten, and Rod Hendrickson. The show was written by Allan E. Sloane, Leonard Leslie, Edward J. Adamson, and Jay Bennett, with distribution handled by Mutual Broadcasting System and syndication by Chartoc-Coleman company.
+
+Bulldog Drummond was later revived in 1953, with Sir Cedric Hardwicke in the lead role. However, this version of the show ran from January 3, 1954, to March 28, 1954, before it ended. Overall, the show was popular for its crime-solving and thrilling adventures in a wartime atmosphere.
+
 - Calling All Cars [calling-all-cars]
+
+Calling All Cars was a pioneering old-time radio police drama that aired from November 29, 1933, to September 8, 1939, on CBS West Coast and the Mutual-Don Lee networks. Created by writer-director William N Robson, the show featured true crime stories from the Los Angeles Police Department, showcasing how each case was solved and justice served. Sgt. Jesse Rosenquist, a police dispatcher, was part of the entire series run.
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+The show was sponsored by the Rio Grande Oil Company and featured introductory remarks by officers of the Los Angeles Police Department. As a precursor to future police dramas, such as Dragnet, Calling All Cars helped improve law enforcement's public image by portraying them as dedicated public servants. The series later found syndication through different sponsors across the United States, further expanding its reach and influence on the radio drama genre.
+
 - Can You Imagine That [can-you-imagine-that]
+
+Can You Imagine That is an entertaining old time radio show that shares strange and surprising stories from newspaper columns around the country. Designed to provoke thought and conversation, the show presents a mix of docudrama sketches and vignettes about odd news items and historical oddities. Written, directed, and hosted by Lindsay MacHarrie, it aired on West Coast Radio.
+
+Some of the fascinating stories featured include a boy attacked by a 10 ft bird, a 92-year-old woman growing a third set of teeth, and a man falling 15,000 feet from an airplane and surviving. The show's format teases several oddities before presenting them in a 15-minute episode, often concluding with a vignette about an old or popular song of the era.
+
 - Candy Matson, YUkon 2-8209 [candy-matson-yukon-2-8209]
+
+Candy Matson, YUkon 2-8209, is a captivating Old Time Radio show that aired from March 1949 to May 1951 on NBC West Coast. Created by Monty Masters, the show featured his wife Natalie Parks in the title role of a smart, tough, and fearless female private investigator, Candy Matson. Set in San Francisco, the show followed Candy as she solved cases in the Bay Area, often working with her police detective love interest, Lt. Ray Mallard, played by Henry Leff, and her flamboyant best friend and assistant, Rembrandt Watson, voiced by Jack Thomas.
+
+The show's opening featured a ringing telephone, with Candy answering, "Candy Matson, YU 2-8209" before the theme song "Candy" played. The series was praised for its strong female lead and use of actual San Francisco locations in its storylines. Despite its popularity, the show never gained a national audience or a permanent sponsor, remaining a West Coast favorite. Candy Matson concluded with a twist ending as Ray proposed to Candy, leading to their marriage and Candy's retirement from detective work.
+
 - Case Dismissed [case-dismissed]
+
+"Case Dismissed" is a classic legal drama that aired on WMAQ Chicago, an NBC station, from January 30, 1954, to April 24, 1954. Created by the Chicago Bar Association, the show features everyday situations where individuals encounter legal challenges, showcasing the importance of consulting an honest lawyer. The 12 available episodes were delivered by local Chicago talent, with Dean John Fitzgerald of the Loyola University Law School as host. Despite its limited broadcast and age, "Case Dismissed" remains an engaging series that offers valuable insight into the American legal system during the 1950s.
+
 - Casey, Crime Photographer [casey-crime-photographer]
+
+Casey, Crime Photographer, also known as Flashgun Casey and Crime Photographer, aired on CBS radio from July 7, 1943, to April 22, 1955, with a total of 431 episodes. The character, originally created by novelist George Harmon Coxe, appeared in Black Mask magazine and various other media formats.
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+Jack "Flashgun" Casey was a crime photographer for the fictional Morning Express newspaper. He worked alongside reporter Ann Williams, solving crimes and recounting their adventures at their favorite tavern, The Blue Note. Various actors portrayed the characters, with Staats Cotsworth and Jan Miner being the most prominent as Casey and Ann Williams, respectively.
+
+The show, sponsored by brands like Anchor-Hocking Glass, Toni Home Permanents, and Philip Morris Cigarettes, managed to find success on radio despite its B-grade status. However, it did not fare well on television, with its short-lived run never being re-ran due to poor reception.
+
 - CBS Radio Mystery Theater [cbs-radio-mystery-theater]
+
+CBS Radio Mystery Theater, also known as Radio Mystery Theater and Mystery Theater, was a radio drama series that aired on CBS Radio Network affiliates between 1974 and 1982, and later in the early 2000s on NPR satellite feed. Created by Himan Brown, the show followed a format similar to classic Old Time Radio programs like The Mysterious Traveler and The Whistler. E.G. Marshall hosted the show from January 1974 until February 1982 and introduced episodes with insightful commentary, inviting listeners into the world of the macabre.
+
+The series encompassed a wide variety of genres, including horror, science fiction, historical drama, comedy, and seasonal dramas during the Christmas season. It featured classic adaptations, stories from famous writers, and original tales. With 1,399 original episodes, the series attracted a diverse array of talent, including renowned actors from stage, film, and TV, as well as notable voices from the golden age of radio.
+
+Recorded in New York, CBSRMT captured the nostalgia of Old Time Radio, appealing to both older and younger audiences. The program's spine-chilling atmosphere and engaging storytelling made it a popular late-night treat for many listeners.
+
 - CBS Radio Workshop [cbs-radio-workshop]
+
+The CBS Radio Workshop, an experimental dramatic radio anthology series, aired from January 27, 1956, until September 22, 1957. Known as "radio's distinguished series to man's imagination," it was a revival of earlier Columbia Workshop broadcasts, bringing back some of the original writers and directors. The series was one of the last efforts by American network radio to attract and retain the audience that had transitioned to television after World War II.
+
+The show premiered with a two-part adaptation of Aldous Huxley's Brave New World, narrated by Huxley himself. The series was known for its unique approach to sound effects and featured music by composers like Bernard Herrmann, Jerry Goldsmith, Amerigo Moreno, Ray Noble, and Leith Stevens. Many renowned writers' works were adapted for the series, including pieces by John Cheever, Robert A. Heinlein, Sinclair Lewis, H. L. Mencken, Edgar Allan Poe, Christopher Isherwood, Frederik Pohl, James Thurber, Mark Twain, and Thomas Wolfe.
+
+Created by William Froug, the series successfully attracted attention from radio personnel and listeners, leading to alternating productions between the west and east coasts. The CBS Radio Workshop showcased a wide variety of genres and offered cutting-edge writing, music, and sound, making it a unique collection of radio shows at the end of the radio era.
+
 - Challenge of the Yukon [challenge-of-the-yukon]
+
+"Challenge of the Yukon," also known as "Sergeant Preston of the Yukon," was a long-running radio adventure series created by George W. Trendle, the station owner of Detroit's WXYZ. A Northern genre story, the series began airing on February 3, 1938. The show followed Sergeant William Preston of the Northwest Mounted Police and his loyal Alaskan husky, Yukon King, as they fought evildoers in the Northern wilderness during the 1890s Gold Rush. The action-packed stories featured the duo helping injured trappers, catching smugglers, and saving people from wild animals.
+
+The show experienced various name changes, first known as "Challenge of the Yukon," then "Sergeant Preston of the Yukon" in the 1950s. Many actors played the role of Sgt. Preston over the years, with Paul Sutton being the most prominent. The talented animal sound effects artists, Dewey Cole and later Ted Johnstone, provided Yukon King's barks and howls.
+
+Aired on numerous networks and re-formatted as it evolved, "Challenge of the Yukon" entertained audiences with engaging storylines, lively music, and strong heroes both human and canine.
+
 - Charlie Chan [charlie-chan]
+
+The Adventures of Charlie Chan is an intriguing collection of radio episodes featuring the fictional detective Charlie Chan, created by Earl Derr Biggers. Airing on four networks from 1932 to 1948, the show starred Walter Connolly and serialized adaptations of Biggers' novels. Charlie Chan, a Chinese-Hawaiian detective based in Honolulu, embarks on global journeys filled with thrills, excitement, comedy, and pearls of wisdom. Despite his busy career, Chan maintains a strong family life, with his 14 children, including Numbers 1 and 2 sons, often assisting him in solving cases. Known for his exotic wit and wisdom, Charlie Chan's adventures are a rare gem in the world of radio detective shows, with complete serial recordings being scarce, and the full storylines often incomplete. Tune in to experience the wit and charm of this modern Chinese sage!
+
 - Chick Carter, Boy Detective [chick-carter-boy-detective]
+
+Chick Carter, Boy Detective was a popular American old-time radio crime drama series for youth, aired on the Mutual Broadcasting System from July 5, 1943 to July 6, 1945. The show featured 15-minute episodes, centered around Chickering "Chick" Carter, the adopted son of and assistant to Nick Carter of Nick Carter, Master Detective fame. As a spinoff of the elder Carter's show, both programs were products of the Street and Smith publishing company and aimed to engage fans of all ages in their crime-solving pursuits. Episodes ended in cliffhangers, urging young listeners to stay tuned for the next installment.
+
+The show's cast included Bill Lipton, Leon Janney, Jean and Joanne McCoy, Gilbert Mack, Bill Griffis, and Stefan Schnabel. Fritz Block directed the program and was also one of the writers, along with Walter B. Gibson, Ed Gruskin, and Nancy Webb. Charles Michelson acted as the producer.
+
+Fans of the show could join the Inner Circle Club to receive exclusive background information on the casts of the two Carter shows. Chick Carter, Boy Detective inspired a film serial, Chick Carter, Detective (1946) and a comic strip that ran in Shadow Comics Magazine.
+
 - Classic Baseball MLB [classic-baseball-mlb]
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+Major League Baseball radio broadcasts have been an integral part of American sports media and society since the early 20th century. Serving as the soundtrack for many generations of baseball fans, these broadcasts have not only provided live game commentary but also cultivated a strong emotional bond between the audience and their favorite teams. The iconic voices of legendary broadcasters such as Vin Scully, Ernie Harwell, and Red Barber have transcended time and continue to hold a special place in the hearts of baseball enthusiasts.
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+With the advent of radio, baseball broadcasts became an affordable and accessible means for fans to follow the play-by-play action, forging a sense of community and shared experience across geographical barriers. This remarkable innovation not only transformed the way people consumed the sport but also significantly contributed to the popularity and growth of Major League Baseball in America.
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+Feel the nostalgia and excitement through our collection of classic MLB radio broadcasts. Relive the history, amazing feats of athleticism, and iconic moments as we journey back in time to offer you a unique listening experience. Tune in and experience firsthand the vibrant memories and passion that have forever been etched in the fabric of American culture.
+
 - Claudia [claudia]
+
+Claudia, also known as Claudia and David, is an old time radio soap opera based on a series of short stories by Rose Franken and William Brown Meloney, which first appeared in Redbook magazine. The show follows the lives of newlyweds David and Claudia Naughton as they navigate the ups and downs of married life. Claudia first aired as a skit on The Kate Smith Hour in 1941, and later expanded into a summer series starring Patricia Ryan and Richard Kollmar. The success of the books and films based on the stories led Coca-Cola to sponsor a 15-minute syndicated weekday radio program in the 1947-48 season, starring Kathryn Bard and Paul Crabtree. The charming and lighthearted show offers an excellent glimpse into the daily life of a 1940s American household.
+
 - Cloak and Dagger [cloak-and-dagger]
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+Cloak and Dagger is a captivating NBC radio series that aired from May 7 to October 22, 1950. Based on the book by Corey Ford and Alistair McBain, the show follows the thrilling missions of OSS agents during World War II, as they embark on dangerous assignments behind enemy lines. The 22-episode series stands out with its gripping, real-life stories, adapted directly from authentic Washington files, and adds an element of unpredictability, as not all missions end in success.
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+The series is hosted by Corey Ford and boasts an exceptional cast, including Raymond Edward Johnson, Everett Sloane, and Jackson Beck. Directed by Sherman Marks, the show features a talented production team of Alfred Hollander, Louis G. Cowan, Jack Gordon, Winifred Wolfe, and John Gart. With tense, action-packed stories and a stellar cast, Cloak and Dagger delivers a thrilling look into the secret world of espionage during WWII.
+
 - Club Car Special [club-car-special]
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+Club Car Special was an engaging old-time radio show brought to you by the Hearst Newspaper Syndicate. The show offers a sneak peek into the content of the upcoming Sunday newspaper, providing listeners with an entertaining preview during mid-week radio broadcasts. Listeners are treated to sketches adapted from cartoons and short reviews of humorous articles written by some of America's most renowned humorists, including O.O. McIntyre, Will Rogers, George Eads, Stan Hilman, Arthur 'Bugs' Bayer, Milt Gross, and Damon Runyon. Join the Club Car Special for an enjoyable and witty journey through the pages of Hearst's Sunday newspapers.
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 - Comic Weekly Man [comic-weekly-man]
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+Comic Weekly Man aired from 1947 to 1954 and was a one-of-a-kind radio show where the Comic Weekly Man delivered dramatic readings of popular Sunday comic strips, complete with sound effects and music. This format provided an immersive and entertaining experience for both adults and children, who would follow along with a print copy of the comics while listening to the show.
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+The show featured a variety of well-known comic strips including Blondie, Beetle Bailey, Hi and Lois, Flash Gordon, Roy Rogers, Scamp and the Paint, and Little Iodine. Over the years, different actors took on the role of the Comic Weekly Man, with Lon Clark being one of the notable talents to portray the character. Through its unique premise, Comic Weekly Man created a memorable and engaging way for listeners to enjoy their favorite Sunday comics.
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 - Command Performance [command-performance]
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+Command Performance was a radio show broadcast on the Armed Forces Radio Network (AFRS) between 1942 and 1949, specifically designed to entertain U.S. troops during WWII. The show featured top performers of the day such as Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, and Judy Garland, who volunteered their talents, putting on a show based on requests from service members. The AFRS recorded and shipped these programs to the troops stationed overseas. Command Performance's success helped pave the way for the creation of other similar shows, such as Request Performance and G.I. Journal.
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+Command Performance was primarily intended for the U.S. troops serving overseas during WWII, and therefore, with few exceptions, it was not broadcast to the general public over domestic U.S. radio stations. The purpose was to boost the morale of the service members while keeping that exclusive connection between the performers and the troops. In fact, it was considered the "best program that the American Public never heard." Only in a rare instance, such as on Christmas Eve 1942, did the War Department allow a broadcast of Command Performance for domestic listeners in order to forge a link between the servicemen abroad and the folks on the Home Front.
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 - Complete Broadcast Day - D-Day [complete-broadcast-day-d-day]
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+Radio broadcasting in the 1940s played a pivotal role in communication, entertainment, and information dissemination. It was the golden age of radio, with millions of households tuning in to their favorite programs, news bulletins, and music. The significance of radio during this era cannot be overstated, as it was an essential source of information and connection for millions of people during World War II.
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+During the war, radio stations actively coordinated with governments and military agencies, providing accurate and timely news about the major events and battles that unfolded during the tumultuous years of 1939 to 1945. On D-Day, June 6, 1944, radio broadcasting played a crucial role in keeping the public informed of the massive allied invasion of Normandy, France. These historic broadcasts not only provided real-time updates to eager listeners but also served as a means of boosting morale, maintaining unity, and fueling the public's determination to see the conflict through.
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+This collection of audio files presents a comprehensive compilation of the full broadcast day on D-Day, encapsulating the significance of radio broadcasting in the 1940s and providing an auditory window into this monumental day in world history. Step back in time and experience the tension, triumph, and commitment of journalists, broadcasters, and military personnel as they relay the story of one of the most important days of World War II, and the impact it would have on the world for generations to come.
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 - Crazy Hillbillies [crazy-hillbillies]
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+Crazy Hillbilly Show was a 1930s radio broadcast originating in New York City, sponsored by the Crazy Hotel, a health spa in Mineral Wells, Texas, known for the curative properties of its mineral waters. Created by Carr P. Collins and Hal Collins, the show featured Old Timey music, a precursor to Bluegrass, with roots in folk music from the British Isles, Europe, and Africa, played on stringed instruments and harmonica. The show's advertising promoted the benefits of Crazy Water, a mineral water that was eventually turned into mineral salts to be more easily shipped and reconstituted with tap water. Though the claims made by the Collins brothers about the benefits of Crazy Water were not as extreme as some patent medicine salesmen, their claims eventually caught the attention of the Federal Government when the Pure Food and Medicine regulations were enacted. The Crazy Hillbilly Show's mix of music and promotion for Crazy Water made it a unique and entertaining radio show of its time.
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 - Crazy Water Crystal Program [crazy-water-crystal-program]
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+The Crazy Water Crystal Program, a 15-minute commercial for a Patent Medicine elixir, aired regionally and on NBC networks between 1935-1940 from the lobby of the Crazy Water Hotel in Mineral Wells, Texas. The show's host promoted Crazy Crystals, a snowy residue originating from the Crazy Well, believed to have healing properties. In exchange for the advertisement, listeners enjoyed early Country Western and Bluegrass music played by mostly country and hillbilly groups. The program contributed to a booming tourist industry in Mineral Wells, based on the alleged health benefits of the local waters. Actress Mary Martin featured on the show before achieving fame on Broadway and in Hollywood. A large Crazy Water Crystal sign was displayed during the 1992 Grand Ole Opry opening, and a photo of Hank Snow singing on the program is exhibited in the museum.
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 - Crime and Peter Chambers [crime-and-peter-chambers]
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+Crime and Peter Chambers is an American old-time radio detective program that aired on NBC from April 6, 1954, to September 7, 1954. The show was based on the character Peter Chambers, a hard-hitting private detective created by author Henry Kane, who also wrote the scripts and directed the show. Unlike many private detectives on radio, Chambers coordinated his work with the police and had a close relationship with his best friend, Lt. Louis Parker, played by Bill Zuckert.
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+The series starred Dane Clark as Peter Chambers, a playboy detective with an eye for solving crime and a taste for beautiful women. The show was known for its glib dialogue that played into Clark's reputation as a screen tough guy. A total of 21 episodes from the series are available. Other actors involved in the show include Fran Carlon, Roger DeKoven, and William Griffis, among others. Crime and Peter Chambers was short-lived, lasting only five months; however, it remains a notable piece of radio detective history.
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 - Crime Classics [crime-classics]
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+Crime Classics is a historical true crime radio docudrama series that aired on CBS Radio from June 15, 1953, to June 30, 1954. Produced and directed by Elliott Lewis, the episodes were co-written by Morton Fine and David Friedkin, and featured music by Bernard Herrmann. Hosted by Thomas Hyland, played by Lou Merrill, the show investigates true crime stories from various eras and locations, narrated with a wry, cool-blooded tone.
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+Cases range from famous assassinations, like those of Abraham Lincoln and Julius Caesar, to obscure crimes like the story of Bathsheba Spooner, the first woman tried and executed in America. The show is notable for its factual accuracy, its attention to sophistication and mood, and its tasteful sound effects.
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 - Cruise of the Poll Parrot [cruise-of-the-poll-parrot]
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+Cruise of the Poll Parrot is a syndicated children's radio serial launched in 1937 to promote Poll Parrot Shoes, a children's shoe line by International Shoe Company. Set in 1858 in New Bedford, Massachusetts, the show follows Captain Roy Dalton (voiced by Marvin Miller) and his crew as they embark on a whaling voyage aboard the ship, Poll Parrot. The adventure-filled and well-researched stories are both entertaining and educational, providing factual information about the whaling industry.
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+The show's main voice, Miller, was a talented actor who went on to work in numerous radio shows, films, and the 1950s TV series, "The Millionaire". Cruise of the Poll Parrot was designed to be sold to local radio stations and shoe stores, with the series available in blocks of 13, 26, or 39 episodes. This unique marketing approach helped boost shoe sales for International Shoe Company as they competed against Buster Brown, the leader in children's shoes at the time.
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 - Danger, Dr. Danfield [danger-dr-danfield]
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+Danger, Dr. Danfield aired from August 18, 1946 to April 13, 1947 and consisted of 26 episodes. It starred Michael Dunn as Dr. Danfield, an obnoxious unlicensed private investigator/criminal psychologist, and JoAnne Johnson as Rusty Fairfax, his secretary. The series, written by Ralph Wilkinson and produced by Wally Ramsey, was often criticized for its poor acting and writing. The show followed a formula where the crime was committed in the first third, solved in the second third, and then explained by Dr. Danfield to Rusty in the conclusion. The characters were generally one-dimensional, but the show remains enjoyable for light, casual listening.
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 - Dangerous Assignment [dangerous-assignment]
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+Dangerous Assignment was an action-packed Old Time Radio show airing from 1949 to 1953, featuring film actor Brian Donlevy as Steve Mitchell, a US special agent tasked with getting in and out of dangerous situations. Herb Butterfield co-starred as the Commissioner, who assigns missions to Mitchell, while Betty Moran played The Commissioner's secretary. The show took place in various exotic locations, with atmospheric music and skilled voice actors adding drama and suspense.
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+Dangerous Assignment was also adapted into a syndicated television series and an Australian radio series. While not as iconic as shows like Escape and The Third Man, Dangerous Assignment had a solid fan base and set the stage for future spy novels and films, such as Ian Fleming's first James Bond novel, Casino Royale, in 1952.
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 - Dangerously Yours [dangerously-yours]
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+Dangerously Yours was a captivating Old Time Radio show sponsored by Vicks that initially aired in 1944. Featuring Hollywood star Victor Jory as the leading man, this romantic adventure series ran for a total of sixteen episodes, with eleven of them available for collectors today. Focused heavily on romance, the show often spotlighted tender moments between lovers, with action and adventure serving as a backdrop. In late 1944, Dangerously Yours was rebranded as Vicks Matinee Theater, which went on to broadcast an additional twenty-five episodes—including repeats from earlier episodes—with twenty-two of them still known to exist. Listeners would tune in each Sunday to indulge in a half-hour of romance and adventure, brought to you by the Vic Chemical Company's popular nose drops, vapor rubs, and other products.
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 - Dark Fantasy [dark-fantasy]
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+Dark Fantasy was an American radio supernatural thriller anthology series that aired on NBC from 1941 to 1942. Set in a chilling and suspenseful universe, this horror drama series was created by renowned writer Scott Bishop, known for his work on The Mysterious Traveler and The Sealed Book. The show originated from WKY radio station in Oklahoma City and was broadcast on Friday nights to avoid young audiences.
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+With a focus on horror, murder mysteries, and science fiction, Dark Fantasy delved into the unknown, keeping listeners on the edge of their seats. Despite its short run of 31 episodes, the series gained significant popularity and showcased stories way ahead of their time. Scott Bishop crafted each spine-tingling episode, and Keith Paynton served as the announcer. Though it only aired for one year, Dark Fantasy has remained an enduring example of excellent horror storytelling in the realm of old-time radio shows.
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 - Dear Adolf [dear-adolf]
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+Dear Adolf is a unique Old Time Radio show from 1942, featuring six narrative letters written by Americans to Adolf Hitler during World War II. These letters offer a glimpse into American opinions on Hitler and the Nazi regime. Created as a "fight-talk program" to bolster public support for the war, the series was written by Stephen Vincent Benét and produced in cooperation with the Council for Democracy. The letters, penned by a diverse range of Americans - including a farmer, mother, businessman, laborer, US soldier, and an Austrian-born naturalized US citizen - express their sentiments and disdain towards Hitler in powerful, creative ways. The show aired on the NBC Red network, showcasing the strength of American support and resistance against Nazi Germany.
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 - Delmore Brothers [delmore-brothers]
 - Democracy in America [democracy-in-america]
 - Dimension X [dimension-x]