Welcome to this week’s episode of “Tuesday Night Detectives” on Vintage Classic Radio, where we're celebrating the festive season with two classic detective tales!

First up is "The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes" starring the legendary Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes and Nigel Bruce as Dr. Watson. In the episode “The Adventure of the Christmas Bride,” originally broadcast on December 21st, 1947, Holmes and Watson find themselves in a Yuletide mystery involving a young bride-to-be. The plot thickens when her fiancé receives a series of anonymous letters warning him against the marriage. As Christmas approaches, Holmes and Watson race against time to unravel the truth behind these ominous messages, uncovering a tangled web of old family secrets and hidden motivations. The episode also features Evelyn Ankers as the bride, George Zucco as the mysterious antagonist, and Dennis Hoey in a supporting role.

Next, we journey to the world of “Yours Truly, Johnny Dollar,” with Bob Bailey voicing the iconic insurance investigator. In the episode “How I Played a Santa Claus,” aired on December 24th, 1949, Johnny Dollar takes on a holiday case that's anything but merry. A desperate call on Christmas Eve leads him to a family in turmoil, threatened by a shadow from their past. Dollar must don the hat of Santa Claus to deliver not just gifts but also justice, navigating through a maze of deceit and danger. The cast includes Virginia Gregg as the distressed mother, Howard McNear as the dubious uncle, and John Dehner in a pivotal role.

These timeless radio dramas, filled with mystery and holiday spirit, remind us of the golden age of detective storytelling. Tune in for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, filled with intrigue and festive cheer!

Tune into Vintage Classic Radio's special Christmas holidays variety show, with Christmas songs by Bing Crosby and Railroad Hour, a radio drama called "The Night Before Christmas" and Christmas comedy from Abbott and Costello, as well as Mel Blanc in "Mel Plays Santa Claus" .

Welcome to this week's "Tuesday Night Detectives" on Vintage Classic Radio, where we're celebrating the holiday season with two classic episodes just in time for Christmas!

First up, we revisit "The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes," starring the incomparable Basil Rathbone as Sherlock Holmes and Nigel Bruce as Dr. John Watson. In the episode "The Night Before Christmas," originally broadcast on December 24th, 1945, our intrepid detectives find themselves embroiled in a Yuletide mystery. On Christmas Eve, Holmes and Watson are visited by a worried father whose priceless diamond, the "Blue Carbuncle," has been stolen. As they delve into the case, they uncover a tale of intrigue and deceit, all set against the festive backdrop of Victorian London. This episode also features notable performances by Mary Gordon as Mrs. Hudson, and Edwin Bruce as Inspector Lestrade, among others.

Next, we turn the dial to "Rocky Fortune," starring the legendary Frank Sinatra in the leading role. In the episode "The Plot to Murder Santa Claus," which first aired on December 22nd, 1953, Rocky finds himself in a holiday-themed adventure. Hired as a department store Santa Claus, Rocky stumbles upon a sinister plot to commit a heist during the holiday rush. With his characteristic wit and charm, Rocky navigates the dangerous world of thieves and scoundrels to save Christmas. Alongside Sinatra, the episode features Barney Phillips as Sgt. Hamilton J. Finger and Gloria Blondell in a supporting role.

Join us as we step back in time to experience these thrilling holiday mysteries, filled with suspense, humor, and the spirit of the season. It's a Christmas celebration, detective style, on "Tuesday Night Detectives"!

Welcome to this week’s episode of “Friday Night Noir” on Vintage Classic Radio, where we dive into the thrilling world of suspense-filled radio dramas. As we continue our Christmas holiday celebrations, we have a special double bill lined up from the iconic “Suspense” radio series.

Our first feature is the captivating episode titled "Twas The Night Before Christmas," originally aired on December 21st, 1953. This masterful tale, written by the talented duo of Mort Lewis and David Friedkin, takes us on a gripping journey set against the backdrop of the festive season. In this story, we're introduced to a family whose Christmas Eve takes a turn for the unexpected. The household's tranquil holiday preparations are abruptly interrupted, leading to a series of suspenseful and mysterious events that captivate the listener. The episode’s cast brings the story to life with their compelling performances. The talented ensemble includes Greer Garson, who delivers a remarkable performance, bringing depth and emotion to her character. Accompanying her are Olan Soule, Anne Whitfield, and Howard McNear, each adding their unique flair to the narrative.

Next, we step back a bit further in time to December 21st, 1950, for the "Christmas for Carole" episode, starring the charming and versatile Dennis Day. This story, penned by the ingenious writer Walter Bazzar, unfolds a touching narrative filled with intrigue and sentiment. Dennis Day shines in his role, portraying a character whose life intertwines with unexpected twists and heartfelt moments. The episode is a beautiful blend of suspense and emotion, making it a perfect listen for the holiday season. Alongside Dennis Day, the cast includes Lurene Tuttle, who delivers a stellar performance. The episode also features the talents of Howard McNear and Joseph Kearns, each contributing to the rich, suspenseful atmosphere that "Suspense" is renowned for.

Both episodes are exemplary representations of the golden age of radio, where storytelling was an art form that relied solely on voice, sound effects, and the listener's imagination. As we revisit these timeless classics, we're not only entertained but also reminded of the sheer power of audio in creating vivid, captivating worlds. Join us for a nostalgic trip down memory lane with these two thrilling episodes from “Suspense,” and experience the magic of radio drama at its finest.

Our special evening begins with the CBS Hallmark "Hall of Fame" adaptation of Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol," originally broadcasted on December 18th, 1954, notable primarily for featuring Lionel Barrymore's final performance as Scrooge. Barrymore, a distinguished actor of his time, had passed away just over a month before the broadcast, on November 15, 1954. This timeless classic, starring Lionel Barrymore as Ebenezer Scrooge, captures the transformation of a miserly old man visited by three spirits on Christmas Eve. The cast also includes Richard Hale as Jacob Marley and Marvin Miller as the Ghost of Christmas Present, with John McIntire, Jeanette Nolan, and Howard McNear completing the ensemble. This heartwarming tale reminds us all of the true spirit of Christmas.

Next, we present "Room for a Stranger," originally aired on December 19th, 1946, as part of CBS Hallmark's "Hall of Fame." In this poignant story, Frank Sinatra stars as a disillusioned war veteran who, on a snowy Christmas Eve, encounters a series of individuals who restore his faith in humanity. The cast features Gloria McMillan, Edmund MacDonald, Lurene Tuttle, Wally Maher, and Joseph Kearns. Sinatra's performance and the touching narrative make this a memorable and uplifting addition to our holiday programming.

Concluding our evening is "Christmas in Connecticut" from the CBS' Screen Guild Theater, originally broadcasted on August 5th, 1946. Starring Ronald Reagan, Jane Wyman, and Leon Belasco, this romantic comedy centers around Elizabeth Lane, a food writer who must create a perfect Christmas for her boss and a war hero, despite her lack of domestic skills. The delightful interplay between Reagan, Wyman, and Belasco offers a charming and lighthearted end to our night of classic radio dramas.

Join us for this wonderful collection of stories on Vintage Classic Radio's "Sunday Night Playhouse." "A Christmas Carol," "Room for a Stranger," and "Christmas in Connecticut" together create a magical tapestry of holiday cheer, reflection, and joy. Tune in for an evening filled with the spirit of Christmas and the unforgettable charm of golden-age radio. Happy holidays, and enjoy the show!

Welcome to another holiday edition of "Saturday Matinee" on Vintage Classic Radio, where we're stepping back in time to relive the golden age of radio with some of the most iconic Christmas broadcasts in history.

Our journey begins with the delightful "Our Miss Brooks" in "The Magic Christmas Tree," originally aired on December 25th, 1949. In this heartwarming episode, the beloved schoolteacher Miss Brooks, played by Eve Arden, finds herself in a whimsical adventure involving a magic Christmas tree that brings unexpected joy and laughter to her and her students. The cast includes Gale Gordon as the irascible Principal Osgood Conklin, Richard Crenna as student Walter Denton, and Jane Morgan as Mrs. Davis, Miss Brooks' endearing landlady.

Next, we turn the dial to NBC's "The Jell-O Show starring Jack Benny" for the episode "An Old Fashioned Christmas," which first graced the airwaves on December 20th, 1936. Jack Benny, with his legendary wit, leads an episode filled with humor and nostalgia, depicting a simpler, old-fashioned Christmas celebration. Mary Livingstone, Dennis Day, and Rochester (played by Eddie Anderson) join Benny, adding their own charm and comedy to this festive episode.

Midway through our matinee, we’re treated to a musical interlude with "A Crosby Christmas," featuring Bing Crosby and his family. This medley of Christmas songs showcases Crosby's timeless voice and his family's harmonious accompaniment, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere.

Our festive journey continues with "The Great Gildersleeve" in the episode "Leroy Wants a Motor Scooter," first broadcasted on December 18th, 1946. In this humorous and heartwarming tale, Throckmorton P. Gildersleeve, portrayed by Harold Peary, navigates the challenges of holiday shopping when his nephew Leroy yearns for a motor scooter. The episode also stars Walter Tetley as Leroy, and Lillian Randolph as Birdie, the family's housekeeper.

CBS’s "Birds Eye Open House" presents a holiday special "I'll Be Home For Christmas," originally aired on October 21st, 1943. Starring the legendary Dinah Shore, this episode is a poignant reminder of the era's wartime Christmas, blending humor with heartfelt moments, capturing the essence of longing and hope during the festive season.

Our penultimate feature is from NBC's "The Hall of Fame" show, with "The Christmas Stocking with Walt Disney and Friends," dating back to December 23rd, 1934. This special presentation features Walt Disney himself, alongside his famous cartoon characters, in a magical Christmas narrative that intertwines animation and radio, a true treat for listeners of all ages.

We conclude our "Saturday Matinee" with a return to "A Crosby Christmas," wrapping up our holiday celebration with more enchanting Christmas music from Bing Crosby and his family, leaving our listeners with the warm, joyful spirit of the season.

Join us for this nostalgic trip down memory lane, reliving the magic of Christmas through the voices and stories that defined an era on Vintage Classic Radio's "Saturday Matinee."

Welcome to this week’s episode of “Friday Night Noir” on Vintage Classic Radio, where we continue our festive journey with a thrilling double bill from the renowned “Suspense” radio series, perfect for the holiday season.

Our first feature is the gripping episode "Back for Christmas," starring the incomparable Peter Lorre. Originally broadcast on December 23rd, 1943, this suspenseful tale is a masterpiece of psychological tension. The story revolves around a professor, expertly portrayed by Lorre, who meticulously plans the murder of his domineering wife before leaving for a job in America. His careful plans begin to unravel when he receives a series of unexpected correspondences, leading to a chilling and ironic twist. The episode's screenplay was penned by the talented John Collier, known for his ability to blend wit with macabre themes. Joining Lorre in the cast are Alice Frost as the unsuspecting wife, and William Spier, the noted producer and director of many “Suspense” episodes, who also makes a brief voice appearance.

Our second offering, enhanced by the addition of Larry Haines, is the heartwarming "Yuletide Miracle," originally aired on December 17th, 1961. This episode, contrasting our first story, offers an uplifting narrative befitting the season. Written by Michael Frost, it tells the story of a small-town community coming together to perform a Christmas miracle for a struggling family. Larry Haines shines in his role, contributing significantly to the episode's emotional depth. He is joined by Robert Cummings as the compassionate town doctor, Virginia Gregg as the resilient mother, Joseph Kearns, and Lurene Tuttle. Their combined performances weave a tapestry of community spirit and holiday warmth.

Both episodes showcase the exceptional talent and range of “Suspense,” a series celebrated for its ability to delve into the darker aspects of the human psyche while also capturing the spirit of hope and kindness. “Back for Christmas” and “Yuletide Miracle” together create a perfect balance of thrill and heart, embodying the complex emotions that often accompany the holiday season.

Join us as we travel back in time to experience these captivating stories, brought to life by some of the most talented actors and writers of the golden age of radio. This unique blend of suspense and sentiment is sure to provide a memorable addition to your Christmas celebrations.