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Audio from Internet Archive · Logs from the Old Time Radio Researchers. Goldie does not own the recordings.

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← All The Big Show episodes

To the men and women in service all over the world on this Christmas Eve, through the cooperation of the Associated Services of the Armed Forces, you are about to be entertained by some of the biggest names in show business. For the next hour and 30 minutes, this program will present in person such bright stars as Jimmy Durante, Burt Lowe, Robert Merrill, Marvito Bryan, Edith Piaf, Brian Warren, Edwin, Merida Paulson, and my name darlings is Tallulah Bankstead. The National…

Transcript

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Synopsis

On a heartwarming Christmas Eve, The Big Show takes center stage, hosted by the effervescent Tallulah Bankhead. The program is dedicated to the men and women in service, aiming to bring a slice of holiday joy to those stationed far from their loved ones. With a lineup featuring stars like Jimmy Durante, Robert Merrill, and Ed Wynn, the atmosphere is filled with laughter and festive spirit as they prepare to entertain the audience.

Cast›

Bert Lahr

Ed Wynn

Jimmy Durante

Margaret O'Brien

Robert Merrill

Tallulah Bankhead

Sponsors & network

Featured in playlists›

Goldie Originals that include this night

Holiday Broadcast

Christmas and winter specials on the air.

24 episodes

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Shared stars, moods, and themes across the catalog

Suspense

Sorry, Wrong Number

An invalid woman overhears a chilling conversation about a planned murder while struggling with a malfunctioning telephone. As she fights to alert the authorities, the stakes rise with each passing moment.

Ep 43 · Tuesday, May 25, 1943 · 29:38

Cavalcade of America

Juliet in Pigtails

In Juliet in Pigtails, a young Mary Anderson passionately pursues her dream of becoming an actress in 1875 Louisville, despite the skepticism of theater owner Barney McCauley. With a canceled performance of Romeo and Juliet, she boldly offers to take on the role of Juliet herself.

Ep 671 · Tuesday, October 24, 1950 · 27:07

Lux Radio Theatre

Music for Millions

A wartime story about an expectant woman, her husband away at war, and "Little Mike." See cat. #44904 for a rehearsal of the broadcast version, see cat. #83248 for a network, spon

Ep 529 · Monday, May 27, 1946 · 53:18

Dr. Kildare

Dr Carew's Fat Wife

Dr. Carew seeks help from Dr. Kildare and Dr. Gillespie to help his overweight wife lose 20 pounds before a benefit performance. The stakes are high as her health and the success of the event hang in the balance.

Ep 17 · Wednesday, May 24, 1950 · 26:55

Claudia

Rogers Surprise

Claudia and David face unexpected news about a piece of land they were interested in, leading to a humorous exchange with Claudia's mother and Mr. Tucker. The mystery of who bought the land unfolds as they navigate their feelings about the situation.

Ep 389 · Thursday, March 24, 1949 · 14:18

More from The Big Show

Same series — shared cast and standout nights

The Big Show

Louis Calhern, Jack Carter

Tallulah Bankhead hosts a star-studded episode of The Big Show, featuring performances from notable entertainers like Jimmy Durante and Louis Calhern. The show combines humor, music, and theatrical sketches, all while Tallulah navigates the challenges of early rehearsals.

Ep 11 · Sunday, January 14, 1951 · 85:44

The Big Show

Fred Allen, Danny Thomas

The glamorous Tallulah Bankhead hosts a star-studded episode of The Big Show, featuring comedy and music from legends like Fred Allen and Danny Thomas. The performers engage in witty banter and showcase their talents, promising an entertaining hour and a half.

Ep 10 · Sunday, January 7, 1951 · 88:17

The Big Show

Fred Allen, Eddie Cantor

The episode features a star-studded lineup including Fred Allen and Eddie Cantor, hosted by the glamorous Tallulah Bankhead. The show promises a mix of humor, music, and lively banter among its famous guests.

Ep 12 · Sunday, January 21, 1951 · 86:11

The Big Show

Fred Allen, Jack Carson

The show features a star-studded lineup including Fred Allen and Jack Carson, who engage in witty banter about the entertainment industry and the novelty of a show train bringing an audience to the performance.

Ep 16 · Sunday, February 18, 1951 · 86:17

The Big Show

Fred Allen, Robert Cummings

In this episode of The Big Show, host Tallulah Bankhead introduces a star-studded lineup featuring Fred Allen, Robert Cummings, and Judy Holliday among others. The lively banter and comedic skits promise an entertaining hour and a half of classic radio variety.

Ep 14 · Sunday, February 4, 1951 · 85:51

The Big Show

Bob Hope, Phil Harris

The episode features a star-studded lineup including Bob Hope, Phil Harris, and Tallulah Bankhead, as they engage in witty banter and musical performances. The stakes rise as the show's chaotic energy culminates in a humorous mix-up during the closing segment.

Ep 7 · Sunday, December 17, 1950 · 88:12

Cozy›

Same mood, other nights on the dial

An Evening With Groucho

London Stories - Churchill & 2nd World War

Groucho Marx shares humorous anecdotes about Winston Churchill during World War II, highlighting the lighter side of a serious historical figure.

Ep 16 · Saturday, May 6, 1972 · 2:05

Little Orphan Annie

Joe And Annie's Plan

Annie and Joe take on a new responsibility by helping out at Jake's Emporium after school. Their commitment to the store comes at a time when Jake is ill and needs assistance.

Ep 920 · Friday, October 25, 1935 · 14:02

Ports of Call

Denmark

The episode explores Denmark, highlighting its rich history, culture, and modern charm as a vibrant nation with a strong maritime heritage. It emphasizes the significance of Copenhagen as a bustling port and its contributions to global trade.

Ep 8606 · Tuesday, December 1, 2099 · 29:51

Suspense

Yuletide Miracle

A man encounters a mischievous ghost named Sir Benjamin while trying to escape a parole officer during Christmas, facing a dilemma to fulfill a dying boy's wish to deliver Christmas presents to his family.

Ep 905 · Sunday, December 17, 1961 · 23:39

Ranger Bill

Cotton and Candy

Ranger Bill and his friends visit a sick girl named Candy in the hospital, hoping to lift her spirits. They bring along a wounded rabbit, Cotton, to help show her the importance of caring and healing.

Ep 126 · Wednesday, September 6, 1961 · 28:20

Roy Rogers

Song - Good Day (AFRTS)

Roy Rogers and his friends investigate the mysterious disappearance of a friend's valuable jewels, facing suspicions of theft along the way.

Ep 76 · Thursday, July 7, 1955 · 23:40

Romance›

More stories in this vein

Dangerously Yours

The Highwayman

In The Highwayman, a daring outlaw confronts a wealthy coachman while seeking romance with the landlord's daughter, Bess. The stakes rise as love and danger intertwine under the moonlit sky.

Ep 1 · Sunday, July 2, 1944 · 29:39

Escape

Sire De Maletroit's Door

In 1429 Paris, a young cavalier finds himself lost and pursued by soldiers, leading him to a mysterious house where he encounters the enigmatic Sire de Maltois and a beautiful woman named Blanche. The stakes rise as he navigates the dangers of love and honor amidst the chaos of war.

Ep 5 · Monday, August 4, 1947 · 29:33

Gunsmoke

Chester's Rendezvous

Chester develops a crush on Em Feeney, a newcomer in Dodge City, but complications arise when her brother is a wanted deserter from the army.

Ep 476 · Sunday, May 21, 1961 · 23:23

The Mel Blanc Show

The New Radio

Mel tries to win over his girlfriend's father, Mr. Colby, after a mishap with a new radio. The stakes rise as Mel navigates his comedic misadventures to gain acceptance.

Ep 10 · Tuesday, November 5, 1946 · 24:07

Ports of Call

Norway

The episode explores the rich history and culture of Norway, focusing on its legendary figures and stunning landscapes. It highlights the tales of King Harold and the Lady Giver, setting the stage for a journey through Norway's fjords and traditions.

Ep 8970 · Tuesday, November 23, 2106 · 24:11

The Devil and Mr O

Where Are You

A young couple on their honeymoon in New York City experiences a day filled with wonder and existential reflection atop the Empire State Building. As they navigate their love amidst the backdrop of a world at war, they ponder the future and the possibility of starting anew.

Ep 4 · Friday, October 8, 1971 · 29:52

← PreviousBob Hope, Phil HarrisNext →Vivian Blaine, Jose Ferrer

Credits

  • Audio from Internet Archive (OTRR_The_Big_Show_Singles). Curated by OTRR. Goldie does not claim ownership of this broadcast.
  • Cast and sponsor data from RadioGold Index (J. David Goldin / UMKC Libraries).
  • Historical context from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).

50-12-24_ep08_Jimmy_Durante_Robert_Merrill.mp3

The Big Show, Episode 8

Jimmy Durante, Robert Merrill

Sunday, December 24, 1950 · 87:43

The Big Show, Episode 8

Jimmy Durante, Robert Merrill

Sunday, December 24, 1950 · 87:43

Summary

On Christmas Eve, The Big Show brings together a star-studded cast to entertain the troops and their families with festive humor and music. Tallulah Bankhead leads the celebration, aiming to create a memorable Christmas experience for a young girl named Margaret.

  • Cozy
  • Romance
  • Survival
  • Psychological
  • Drama
  • Comedy
  • Mystery

Sponsor breaks

›

RCA Victor

Sponsor

N

NBC net

Network

Detective Desk

Private eyes, hardboiled and soft.

24 episodes

Date Night Dial

Shared listening with a little spark.

24 episodes

Rainy Afternoon

Long-form comfort for gray windows.

24 episodes

Family Mystery Lite

Puzzles without nightmares.

24 episodes

Drama Desk

Character, craft, and living-room stage plays.

24 episodes

Cozy Only

Warmth first — thrills optional.

24 episodes

Romance on the Air

Hearts, complications, soft landings.

24 episodes

The Mel Blanc Show

Mel Plays Santa Claus

Mel plays Santa Claus for a young boy named Bobby while trying to keep his girlfriend Betty from thinking he's with another woman. The stakes rise as Mel juggles his secret mission and his relationship.

Ep 17 · Tuesday, December 24, 1946 · 23:24

Little Orphan Annie

The Tin Box

Annie eagerly awaits the arrival of her friends, the twin brothers Peter and Paul, as they prepare for a fun day together. Mr. Silo, their caretaker, juggles chores while the children anticipate their adventures.

Ep 7829 · Friday, June 1, 1934 · 14:13

Academy Award Theater

One Sunday Afternoon

Biff Grimes, a small-town dentist, reflects on his past love for Virginia Brush while dealing with his current life and relationships. The story unfolds on a Sunday afternoon, revealing themes of nostalgia and unrequited love.

Ep 23 · Wednesday, August 28, 1946 · 29:38

The Big Show

Clifton Webb, Jimmy Durante

The episode features Tallulah Bankhead hosting a star-studded lineup, including Clifton Webb and Jimmy Durante, as they engage in witty banter and musical performances.

Ep 6 · Sunday, December 10, 1950 · 88:20

The Big Show

Judy Holliday, Carmen Miranda

The episode features a star-studded lineup including Judy Holliday and Carmen Miranda, promising an entertaining mix of music and comedy. Tallulah Bankhead hosts the show, filled with lively performances and humorous banter.

Ep 21 · Sunday, March 25, 1951 · 87:44

21st Precinct

The Giver

In The Giver, the 21st Precinct deals with a complaint about a neighbor allegedly running a business from his apartment, leading to confusion and unexpected revelations about the situation.

Ep 76 · Wednesday, December 22, 1954 · 27:55

Dragnet

The Big Little Jesus

Detectives Joe Friday and Frank Smith investigate the theft of a religious statue from a historic church in Los Angeles just before Christmas. They face challenges in tracking down the missing piece of art and restoring hope to the community.

Ep 279 · Tuesday, December 21, 1954 · 27:20

Ranger Bill

The Raging Rapids

Ranger Bill and his friends embark on a canoe trip, navigating dangerous waters while teaching important life lessons. The stakes rise as they face unexpected challenges and the need for teamwork and courage becomes essential.

Ep 129 · Monday, October 2, 1961 · 29:03

Suspense

Two Came Back

In the jungle, a love triangle complicates a dangerous expedition for gold, as tensions rise between a husband, his wife, and her lover. The stakes escalate when survival becomes a question of life and death.

Ep 856 · Sunday, June 5, 1960 · 23:17

That night in history

Headlines

  • 1950 — Korean War: General Walton Walker dies in a jeep accident and is replaced by General Matthew Ridgway in the Eighth United States Army.
  • 1950 — The Stone of Scone, traditional coronation stone of British monarchs, is taken from Westminster Abbey by Scottish nationalist students. It later turns up in Scotland on April 11, 1951.

On the air that night›

  1. Dimension XThe Green Hills of Earth (Rebroadcast of 50-06-10)Episode 32
  2. EscapeThe CaveEpisode 138
  3. Incredible but TrueThe Baming SpiritEpisode 52
  4. The Big ShowJimmy Durante, Robert MerrillCurrently listeningEpisode 8
  5. The Jack Benny ProgramBeavers Come over to Jack's for ChristmasEpisode 751
  6. WhistlerThree Wise GuysEpisode 447