Best Plays

Entertainment Radio

Best Plays was a prestigious radio anthology series that aired on NBC Radio from June 9, 1952, to August 30, 1953, showcasing adaptations of some of the most celebrated theatrical works of the 20th century. Hosted and directed by John Chapman, the drama critic for the New York Daily News, the program aimed to bring the finest Broadway and off-Broadway plays to a national radio audience during a time when radio drama was beginning to wane in the face of television’s rise. The series ran for 52 episodes, each an hour long, and was broadcast on Monday nights at 9:00 PM Eastern Time. The show’s mission was to present “the best plays of the modern American theater,” and it delivered by adapting works from renowned playwrights like Tennessee Williams, Arthur Miller, Eugene O’Neill, and Lillian Hellman. Episodes included classics such as Williams’ The Glass Menagerie (starring Helen Hayes), Miller’s Death of a Salesman (with Thomas Mitchell as Willy Loman), O’Neill’s The Emperor Jones, and Hellman’s The Little Foxes. The series also featured Thornton Wilder’s Our Town, Maxwell Anderson’s Winterset, and Sidney Kingsley’s Detective Story, among others. Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio  https://www.myclassicradio.net/Entertainment Radio | Broadcasting Classic Radio Shows | Patreon Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio

  1. 04/06/2025

    Kiss the Boys Goodbye

    In this episode of Best Plays, host John Chapman introduces the witty comedy "Kiss the Boys Goodbye" by Clare Boothe Luce, featuring Helen Clare. The play, originally a satire on Hollywood's search for a new actress, is also described by the author as a political allegory about fascism in America. The story unfolds on a train heading north from the South, where the characters discuss the potential casting of a new actress, Cindy Lou, for a major film role. The narrative explores themes of Southern pride, Hollywood politics, and the comedic chaos that ensues when ambition meets opportunity. As the plot thickens, Cindy Lou finds herself amidst a whirlwind of Hollywood intrigue, romance, and rivalry. The characters navigate through a series of comedic and dramatic events, including a shooting incident and a surprise engagement. The episode captures the essence of Clare Boothe Luce's sharp wit and satirical edge, offering listeners a delightful blend of humor and social commentary. The performance is brought to life by a talented cast, making this episode a memorable addition to the Best Plays series.  Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio https://www.myclassicradio.net/ Entertainment Radio | Broadcasting Classic Radio Shows | Patreon Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio

    59 min
  2. 04/06/2025

    Ethan Frome

    In this episode of Best Plays, we delve into the dramatic adaptation of Edith Wharton's novel, "Ethan Frome," brought to life by the talented Geraldine Page, Evelyn Varden, and Carl Weber. The play, adapted by Owen and Donald Davis, explores the harsh winter life of New England farmers, focusing on the tragic story of Ethan Frome, his wife Zenobia, and her cousin Mattie. As the narrative unfolds, we witness the emotional and physical struggles of the characters, set against the backdrop of a cold, unforgiving Massachusetts winter. The tension between duty and desire, love and obligation, is poignantly portrayed, leading to a dramatic and heart-wrenching climax. Host John Chapman introduces the play, highlighting the impressive Broadway legacy of playwright Owen Davis and the distinguished performances of the original cast. The episode captures the essence of the New England setting and the complex relationships within the Frome household. As the story progresses, listeners are drawn into the intimate and tumultuous world of Ethan Frome, culminating in a tragic decision that changes the lives of the characters forever. Join us for this compelling adaptation that brings Wharton's timeless tale to the radio stage.  Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio https://www.myclassicradio.net/ Entertainment Radio | Broadcasting Classic Radio Shows | Patreon Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio

    1 hr

About

Best Plays was a prestigious radio anthology series that aired on NBC Radio from June 9, 1952, to August 30, 1953, showcasing adaptations of some of the most celebrated theatrical works of the 20th century. Hosted and directed by John Chapman, the drama critic for the New York Daily News, the program aimed to bring the finest Broadway and off-Broadway plays to a national radio audience during a time when radio drama was beginning to wane in the face of television’s rise. The series ran for 52 episodes, each an hour long, and was broadcast on Monday nights at 9:00 PM Eastern Time. The show’s mission was to present “the best plays of the modern American theater,” and it delivered by adapting works from renowned playwrights like Tennessee Williams, Arthur Miller, Eugene O’Neill, and Lillian Hellman. Episodes included classics such as Williams’ The Glass Menagerie (starring Helen Hayes), Miller’s Death of a Salesman (with Thomas Mitchell as Willy Loman), O’Neill’s The Emperor Jones, and Hellman’s The Little Foxes. The series also featured Thornton Wilder’s Our Town, Maxwell Anderson’s Winterset, and Sidney Kingsley’s Detective Story, among others. Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio  https://www.myclassicradio.net/Entertainment Radio | Broadcasting Classic Radio Shows | Patreon Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio