This wasn't just another drama series; it was Columbia Presents Shakespeare, a beacon of high-quality programming that still resonates with us today.
In an era often dominated by popular variety shows and comedies, CBS made a bold move. Recognizing the power of radio to educate and uplift, they dedicated their prime summer replacement slot to the Bard.
The goal was wonderfully simple yet profound: to make Shakespeare's magnificent plays accessible, stripping away any perceived elitism and presenting these universal stories of love, tragedy, comedy, and ambition to the widest possible audience. It was a testament to the belief that great art belonged to everyone with a radio dial.
And how did they draw listeners into these classic tales? With star power that positively crackled through the airwaves! Imagine the thrill of tuning in to hear actors who were already legends – or destined to become them – breathing life into iconic roles. We're talking about titans of stage, screen, and radio lending their immense talents to this unique project.
Consider the casting: the formidable Edward G. Robinson, often known for his tough-guy screen persona, taking on the complex, brooding depth of Hamlet. Picture a young Humphrey Bogart, before his legendary run as a Hollywood leading man, tackling the passionate tragedy of Othello.
The celebrated Tallulah Bankhead brought her unique charisma to Viola in Twelfth Night, sparring delightfully with none other than the prodigious Orson Welles as the pompous Malvolio. The roster didn't stop there; luminaries like the great John Barrymore and the ever-versatile Hans Conried also graced the series, adding further layers of distinction.
Running for just a handful of weeks, from its debut with Much Ado About Nothing on July 19th to the closing performance of Twelfth Night on August 30th, 1937, the series made an indelible mark. Produced in CBS's Hollywood studios, these weren't fleeting live broadcasts but carefully crafted recordings, allowing for a level of polish and performance that captured the nuance of Shakespeare's language and drama for the radio medium.
Columbia Presents Shakespeare was more than just a summer show; it was a statement. It helped solidify CBS's reputation as a network committed to quality and cultural enrichment. More importantly, it succeeded in its mission, introducing countless listeners to the magic of Shakespeare, perhaps for the very first time, proving that these centuries-old stories held an enduring power that transcended the stage.
For us, as lovers of Old Time Radio, there's wonderful news. While not all episodes survived the passage of time, a precious five of the original eight broadcasts are extant! These recordings are more than just historical artifacts; they are portals back to that ambitious summer, allowing us to hear these incredible talents tackle the Bard. Seeking them out is a rewarding treasure hunt for any OTR enthusiast. (but you won't need to hunt - because I'll be adding them to RUSC over the coming days!)
I've even added a brand new Shakespeare quiz for you, to test your knowledge of the Bard after you've listened.
So, let's raise a glass (or perhaps adjust our imaginary headphones) to Columbia Presents Shakespeare. It stands as a shining example of radio's potential, a reminder of a time when networks dared to blend popular entertainment with profound art, and a legacy that continues to inspire.
What a joy it is that we can still listen in and appreciate this remarkable chapter in the golden age of radio.
Happy listening!
