REMEMBERING DEANNA DURBIN

Originally broadcast on WNIB
Saturday, July 25, 1998

LUX RADIO THEATRE (4-18-38) “Mad About Music” starring Deanna Durbin in the radio ver-sion of her 1938 Universal film. Joining Deanna (age 15) are other members of the original screen cast: Herbert Marshall, Gail Patrick, William Frawley, Jackie Moran. A comedy with music about a spirited American girl in a Swiss boarding school, neglected by her mother, so she creates a make-believe father. Deanna sings “Ave Maria,” “Chapel Bells,” and “Serenade to the Stars.” Guest host is Walter Huston, announcer is Melville Ruick. Lux Soap, CBS. (23:20; 12:34; 22:37)

COMMAND PERFORMANCE #140 (9-30-44) Deanna Durbin is hostess for this variety show featuring Jack Benny, James Cagney, Ginger Rogers, Martha Tilton, and Tommy Dorsey and the orchestra featuring Ziggy Elman, Lionel Hampton, Les Paul and Buddy Rich. Don Wilson announces. AFRS. (28:25)

TEXACO TOWN (1-3-37) Eddie Cantor stars with guest Al Jolson, plus regulars Deanna Durbin, Harry Einstein as Parkyakarkus, Sidney Fields, Jacques Rennard and the orchestra, announcer James Wallington. Deanna (age 141 sings “Kiss Me Again.” Cantor sings “Mammy,” Jolson sings “Margie” and Eddie and Al join up for “Dinah.” Texaco, CBS. (28:201

LUX RADIO THEATRE (2-7-44) “His Butler’s Sister” starring Deanna Durbin who repeats her screen role in the radio version of her 1943 Universal film. Co-stars are Pat O’Brien (also from the film) and Robert Paige. Cecil B. DeMille hosts this comedy about a hopeful singing star who tries to get an audition with a noted theatrical impressario. Deanna (age 22) sings “Embraceable You” and “In the Spirit of the Moment.” Lux Soap, CBS. (18:42; 18:20; 19:00)