By the early 1950's, sponsors were beginning to abandon radio for television, but nothing on the small screen had the class and sophistication of NBC's The Big Show. Although Mistress of Ceremonies, Tallulah Bankhead and her guests from the world of entertainment were definitely "upper crust", Miss Bankhead's friendly and accessible manner meant that the program was as entertaining in the parlor as it was in the garage.
57 old time radio show recordings
(total playtime 83 hours, 1082 min)
available in the following formats:
Put on your high-flying slippers and pull your oversized armchair to the enormously roaring fire, because this is going to be an extravagant night full of huge laughs and grandiose entertainment.
I've been listening to Tallulah Bankhead's "The Big Show" and I'm surprised that I wasn't previously aware of it. I think it's wonderful. It's a really nice show with something for everyone. I also love how everyone sings the closing song, "May The Good Lord Bless And Keep You."
The Big Show was NBC's attempt to attract a Sunday radio audience using Tallah Bankhead and Meredith Wilson as hosts...also a lot of guest stars...As I recall, it was an hour show about 9 pm a little past my bedtime, but occasionally i would listen...The closing song "May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You" had the actors singing a separate line. I have heard that it was also sung in churches for the boys entering the service.
May the Good Lord...was written by Meredith Willson specifically for the show and was covered (recorded) by many artists over the years. It was actually a 90 minute show usually aired from 6-7:30..
I've had cassette tapes of the Big Show for many years but the sound quality has deteriorated to the point that I know what is being said only because I've just about memorized the dialogue while listening over the years. The MP3 is much clearer and each voice is easily recognized. Tom
A great program with wonderful music and all the great stars of the era. This is real enjoyment by the hour and a half per episode. I'm glad I bought this set. Excellent listening
Hosted by Tallulah Bankhead, "mistress of ceremonies," The Big Show competed against The Jack Benny Program and The Charlie McCarthy Show for the attention of Sunday night radio listeners.
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