Anthology

Anthology is a show of and about poetry. Broadcast in 1954-55, the show was produced by WNBC New York in conjunction with the Poetry Center of the 92nd Street YMCA; it featured interviews and discussions about poetry, as well as poetry readings, sometimes by the poets themselves, other times by such stars as Orson Welles, Agnes Moorehead, and Helen Hayes. Harry Fleetwood, dubbed "Classical Radio's Classic Nightly Voice" by the New York Times, hosted most of the shows.

The host and performers manage to avoid the primary pitfalls facing a show of this nature--it is neither pedantic nor condescending. If you don't think a show about poetry could be enjoyable and interesting, this program may prove you wrong.

As an aside, in the credits, you will hear the announcer say that the show "is brought to you by WRCA." WNBC broadcast as WRCA from 1954 til 1960.

For more information, see the Old Time Radio Catalog.

Series description provided by Frank Bell.