On demand
Information Please
Presented by OTRPODS
Rediscover the wit and wisdom of Information Please!—the classic American radio quiz show that captivated audiences from 1938 to 1951. Hosted by the brilliant Clifton Fadiman, a former literary editor, this iconic show brought together an esteemed panel of experts, including Oscar Levant, Franklin P. Adams, and John Kieran, each known for their intellect and humor. Listeners submitted questions in hopes of stumping the quick-witted panel, and with celebrity guests like Groucho Marx and Orson Welles, each episode delivered a unique blend of knowledge and laughter. From poetry and sports to music and history, Information Please! entertained with lively debates, clever puns, and spontaneous humor. Now re-broadcasted for a new generation, this show is perfect for trivia lovers, history buffs, and fans of vintage radio. Tune in and enjoy a true gem from radio’s golden age! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
229 episodes
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April 5, 1943: Courtships and Corsets with Cornelia Otis Skinner and Jan Struther
Jun 25, 2025 · 30 min
In this April 5, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman returns to host a witty and vibrant panel with regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by two sharp and entertaining guests: Cornelia Otis Skinner, actress and co-author of Our Hearts Were Young and Gay, and Jan Struther, creator of Mrs. Miniver. This spirited episode pits the men against the women in a battle of brains and banter. The panel tackles an eclectic mix of questions—from the meanings of “bisque,” “basque,” and “busk,” to the literary nuances of Shakespeare, Chaucer, and Tennyson. Discussions include a whimsical examination of clothing etymology, courtship plot twists in Little Women and Henry Esmond, and the various fates of fictional lovers who failed to keep their dates. Highlights also include playful musical trivia, biblical references, and cultural insights into famous figures like Churchill, Stalin, and Chiang Kai-shek. With humor, charm, and clever repartee, Skinner and Struther shine in their intellectual sparring, ultimately triumphing over their male counterparts. Tune in for a delightful hour of engaging questions, literary wit, and laughter on Information Please!
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March 29, 1943: Philippine Valor and Literary Detectives with Carlos P. Romulo
Jun 24, 2025 · 30 min
In this March 29, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a distinguished panel including Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Colonel Carlos P. Romulo—Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of I Saw the Fall of the Philippines. The panel delves into global geography, historical conflicts, and literary references, with Colonel Romulo providing firsthand insight into the Pacific theater of World War II. Highlights include discussions of famous wartime messages, fictional professions, and symbolic phrases like “soft belly of the Axis” and “unsinkable aircraft carrier.” Romulo recounts heroic missions such as the SS Legaspi’s blockade run and sheds light on Filipino contributions and culture. With lively exchanges and sharp wit, the episode blends wartime commentary, musical trivia, and classic literature. It’s an illuminating and spirited installment of Information Please, where intellect meets entertainment.
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March 15, 1943: Knots, Legends, and Literary Feats with Jan Struther
Jun 22, 2025 · 30 min
In this March 15, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes Jan Struther, the celebrated creator of Mrs. Miniver, as the special guest alongside panel regulars John Kieran, Franklin P. Adams, and Oscar Levant. The panel tackles a lively set of audience questions ranging from the meanings of nautical knots and the quirks of British and American officials, to famous literary references involving colors, hair, and statues. Jan Struther charms the panel with her wit, offering insights into everything from English folk songs to legendary creatures like griffins and harpies. The team sings their way through “Johnny” songs, debates ration stamps for Cinderella and Popeye, and unravels poetic quotations with humorous banter. Highlights include quickfire answers about world leaders and historical battles, classic riddles, and clever wordplay around plants, feet, and movement. Blending spirited trivia, cultural knowledge, and spontaneous laughter, this episode is a delightful testament to the show’s unique blend of intellect and entertainment. Tune in for a memorable hour with Jan Struther and the Information Please team!
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March 8, 1943: Russian Rivers and Literary Feuds with Gregory Ratoff
Dec 24, 2024 · 29 min
In this March 8, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a lively panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Gregory Ratoff, the Hollywood director and actor. Together, they explore an engaging mix of geography, music, and literary trivia with humor and flair.Highlights include discussions on famous rivers like the Volga and Wabash, literary families that couldn’t get along from Turgenev’s Fathers and Sons to Ibsen’s A Doll’s House, and musical narratives from Scheherazade to Peter and the Wolf. Ratoff’s quick wit and charm shine as he reminisces about Russian culture and entertains the panel with stories from his Hollywood career.Blending cultural trivia, humor, and intellectual banter, this episode offers an engaging and thought-provoking hour. Tune in for a delightful mix of learning and laughter on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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March 1, 1943: Frog Feasts and Fictional Voyages with Will Rogers Jr.
Dec 5, 2024 · 30 min
In this March 1, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a lively panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Will Rogers Jr., congressman and humorist. Together, they explore trivia ranging from literary creatures to historical military codes.Highlights include a debate on what to feed Mark Twain’s Dannel Webster the frog, a journey through Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises, and humorous reflections on military signals like M1 and G2. Rogers adds charm with his quick wit, while Levant impresses with musical knowledge tied to March-themed melodies.With a mix of humor, cultural references, and wartime trivia, this episode offers an entertaining hour of unscripted fun. Tune in for a delightful blend of learning and laughter on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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February 15, 1943: Short Snorters and Feisty Pugs with Fred Allen
Dec 5, 2024 · 29 min
In this February 15, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes Fred Allen, the legendary comedian, to the panel alongside regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant. Together, they explore an eclectic mix of questions and topics, delivering wit, humor, and cultural insights.Highlights include discussions on aviation traditions like the “short snorter,” debates on famous pugilists managed by family members, and a lively examination of literary transitions, from Rip Van Winkle to A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur’s Court. Allen’s humor and sharp comebacks keep the audience laughing, while the panel dives into trivia on American phrases and cultural quirks. With its mix of humor, intellect, and spontaneity, this episode offers an engaging hour of laughter and learning. Tune in for a delightful mix of trivia and wit on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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February 5, 1943: Literary Suns and Unkept Royals with Jan Struther
Nov 30, 2024 · 28 min
In this February 5, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, alongside guest Jan Struther, creator of Mrs. Miniver. The panel navigates an engaging mix of literary, musical, and cultural trivia with wit and charm.Highlights include poetic references to the sun, such as The Walrus and the Carpenter, and debates over royal women who couldn’t keep their men, from Dido’s Aeneas to Lost Horizon’s Lo Tsen. Struther shares her literary insights while the panel identifies interpolated songs in films like Casablanca and recalls characters who struggled with names like Bullfinch and Admiral.With a delightful blend of humor, intellect, and cultural nostalgia, this episode offers an entertaining and thought-provoking hour. Tune in for an engaging installment of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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January 29, 1943: Fashion Flashbacks and Poetic Quips with Emily Kimbrough and Cornelia Otis Skinner
Nov 27, 2024 · 28 min
In this January 29, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and the co-authors of Our Hearts Were Young and Gay, Emily Kimbrough and Cornelia Otis Skinner. Together, they tackle questions on literature, fashion, and culinary trivia with humor and charm.Highlights include discussions on fashion trends returning from grandmothers’ wardrobes, such as snoods and pompadours, and poetic musings on worms and the mysteries of Shakespearean quotes. The panel also debates the culinary origins of dishes like hors d'oeuvres and Bel Paese cheese, bringing wit and cultural depth to the table.Blending sharp intellect and delightful humor, this episode offers a nostalgic hour of cultural trivia and lighthearted fun. Tune in for a charming installment of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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January 22, 1943: Spy Rings and Culinary Quips with Alfred Hitchcock
Nov 20, 2024 · 28 min
In this January 22, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and the master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock. Together, they navigate an array of trivia, blending Hitchcock’s signature wit with a mix of cultural and literary questions.Highlights include tales of spy rings hidden in windmills, memorable movie murder cases, and debates over the culinary uses of tripe, sweetbreads, and giblets. Hitchcock shares insights into his own films, including Foreign Correspondent and Saboteur, while the panel identifies Shakespearean soliloquies and famous operatic compositions like Midsummer Night’s Dream and La Arlésienne.With lively humor, cinematic reflections, and intellectual banter, this episode offers a thrilling hour of unscripted fun. Tune in for a unique blend of trivia and suspense on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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January 15, 1943: Shakespearean Serenades and Musical Requests with Charles Coburn and Deems Taylor
Nov 19, 2024 · 28 min
In this January 15, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a lively panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and two distinguished guests: stage and screen actor Charles Coburn and composer and music critic Deems Taylor. Together, they explore a mix of literary, musical, and historical trivia.The panel debates Shakespearean quotes, solves musical riddles like identifying melodies from Don Giovanni and Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Symphony, and deciphers historical messages from figures like Blondie Ryan. Coburn’s theatrical flair and Taylor’s sharp wit add depth and humor to the conversation.From cultural insights to unscripted laughs, this episode blends intellectual trivia with spontaneous fun. Tune in for an engaging hour of knowledge and wit on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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January 8, 1943: Parachute Calls and Musical Mysteries with Will Rogers Jr.
Nov 18, 2024 · 30 min
In this January 8, 1943, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a special broadcast from the Academy of Music in Philadelphia. Joining regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant is guest Will Rogers Jr., congressman and former tank destroyer lieutenant. Together, they tackle an array of topics, blending humor, history, and wartime insights.The panel explores curious military terms like “Geronimo” and “bazooka,” debates poetic characters who meet unusual fates, and deciphers musical codes tied to nations in the war effort. Rogers shares anecdotes from his military service, while Levant impresses with his musical expertise, identifying compositions from Sibelius and Tchaikovsky.With lively discussions and patriotic fervor, this episode offers a compelling mix of trivia and camaraderie. Tune in for an hour of wit, knowledge, and wartime spirit on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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January 1, 1943: Matrimonial Mishaps and Musical Masterpieces with Gregory Ratoff
Nov 16, 2024 · 29 min
In this New Year’s Day episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, alongside guest Gregory Ratoff, the dynamic actor, producer, and director. Together, they tackle topics ranging from literary love triangles to classical compositions, all with a witty and celebratory tone.Highlights include debates on famous literary runaways like Anna Karenina, culinary challenges with Victory-themed meals, and humorous reflections on historical figures like Natasha Rostov. Ratoff charms the audience with his humor and sharp insights, while Levant impresses with his musical expertise, identifying pieces like Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite and Enescu’s Romanian Rhapsody.With a blend of intellectual humor and cultural trivia, this episode is the perfect way to start the year. Tune in for a lively mix of laughter, learning, and New Year cheer on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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December 25, 1942: Christmas Quips and Courtroom Tales with Leon Henderson and Judge James Wallace
Nov 15, 2024 · 29 min
In this festive Christmas Day episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a warm and witty panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and guests Leon Henderson, Director of the Office of Price Administration, and Judge James Wallace of the New York Court of General Sessions. Together, they navigate holiday-themed trivia, historical anecdotes, and courtroom humor.Highlights include songs about Christmas gifts, debates on historical figures like Joan of Arc and Little Red Riding Hood, and lively discussions about courtroom salaries and legal trivia. Judge Wallace offers sharp insights with a touch of humor, while Leon Henderson charms the audience with his wartime wit.With a blend of holiday cheer, intellectual banter, and spontaneous fun, this episode captures the spirit of Christmas 1942. Tune in for a nostalgic and entertaining hour on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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December 18, 1942: Literary Lumps and Regal Romances with Ilka Chase
Nov 15, 2024 · 28 min
In this December 18, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a delightful panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and the witty actress and author Ilka Chase. Together, they tackle a variety of topics spanning literature, music, and regal romances.The panel identifies love-struck princesses in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice and the play The Swan, deciphers poetic lines involving honor, and hilariously debates items a lady might keep in her purse—suggested by musical titles like Kitten on the Keys. Ilka Chase adds charm and sharp humor to the lively banter.With topics ranging from African campaign geography to cartoon characters and literary insults, this episode blends wit, culture, and spontaneous fun. Tune in for an engaging and nostalgic hour on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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December 11, 1942: Rivers of Words and Fictional Detectives with William L. Shirer and Christopher Morley
Nov 14, 2024 · 28 min
In this December 11, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes panel regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, along with renowned radio commentator William L. Shirer and literary great Christopher Morley. Together, they tackle an engaging blend of trivia spanning literature, history, and music.Highlights include identifying writers associated with rivers like the Styx and the Yukon, recounting pivotal historical events such as the signing of the Atlantic Charter, and debating famous fictional detectives like Mycroft Holmes and Charlie Chan. With humor and intellectual depth, the panel also dives into poetic first lines and musical excerpts from Scheherazade and Danse Macabre.Blending cultural wit and intellectual banter, this episode offers a nostalgic and thought-provoking hour of trivia and conversation. Tune in for a lively and entertaining installment of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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December 4, 1942: Patriotic Poetry and Boston Brains with Senator Henry Cabot Lodge Jr.
Nov 13, 2024 · 28 min
In this December 4, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates an exceptional panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and guest Senator Henry Cabot Lodge Jr., live from Symphony Hall in Boston. The audience, composed entirely of war bond purchasers, contributes to the war effort with over $4 million raised in bonds.The panel tackles questions about Boston’s history, literary poetry such as Wordsworth’s The Solitary Reaper, and imaginative trivia like which baseball teams Adolf Hitler might dislike. Senator Lodge’s sharp wit and knowledge shine as he delves into military ranks, bugle calls, and the economic impact of war.Blending patriotic fervor, cultural trivia, and humor, this special live broadcast offers an engaging hour of historical insight and lively conversation. Tune in for a memorable installment of Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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November 27, 1942: Ration Recipes and Subversive Songs with Leon Henderson and Wilma Lord Perkins
Nov 12, 2024 · 10 min
In this November 27, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman hosts a unique panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, alongside guests Leon Henderson, Director of the Office of Price Administration, and Wilma Lord Perkins, editor of the Fannie Farmer Cookbook. Together, they explore wartime rationing, culinary creativity, and musical trivia with humor and insight.The panel delves into Mother Goose-inspired ration adjustments, creative uses for cabbage, and recipes like sauerkraut and clam bakes. Musical interludes add humor as the group speculates which government agency would challenge subversive songs like “I Didn’t Raise My Boy to Be a Soldier.”With a perfect blend of cultural nostalgia, wartime practicality, and unscripted wit, this episode offers a delightful hour of engaging conversation. Tune in for a mix of culinary tips, trivia, and laughter on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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November 20, 1942: Literary Marches and Nocturnal Variations with Louis Bromfield
Nov 11, 2024 · 29 min
In this November 20, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and celebrated novelist Louis Bromfield as the guest of the evening. Together, the panel navigates questions ranging from Shakespeare to scientific riddles with their characteristic wit and charm.Highlights include lively debates on literary characters named March from Little Women and Middlemarch, musical trivia tied to Bach’s Goldberg Variations, and discussions on naval strongholds like Buna and Guadalcanal. Bromfield’s literary insights and humor shine as he engages with topics spanning poetry, science, and geopolitics.With an engaging blend of cultural trivia, historical references, and unscripted laughter, this episode offers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of radio. Tune in for an hour of thoughtful exploration and spontaneous brilliance on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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November 6, 1942: Wartime Wit and Naval Quips with Hanson W. Baldwin
Nov 7, 2024 · 29 min
In this November 6, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a lively panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and Oscar Levant, joined by special guest Hanson W. Baldwin, military editor of The New York Times. Together, they navigate trivia spanning literature, naval history, and military tactics.Highlights include questions about Romeo and Juliet’s Friar Laurence, riddles on forgotten passwords in Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves, and musical clues tied to military branches like the Navy and Cavalry. Baldwin provides insightful commentary on current wartime strategies, including the critical role of air power and tank superiority in the British campaigns.Blending humor, intellect, and wartime context, this episode offers a fascinating hour of cultural trivia and historical reflections. Tune in for a thoughtful and entertaining journey through knowledge on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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October 30, 1942: Poetic Reds and Literary Beards with Carl Sandburg and Christopher Morley
Oct 31, 2024 · 28 min
In this October 30, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a panel featuring regulars Franklin P. Adams and John Kieran, joined by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Carl Sandburg and celebrated author Christopher Morley. Together, they tackle trivia spanning poetry, history, and literature.Highlights include witty debates on poetic references to the color red, literary depictions of beards, and the marital challenges of fictional characters like Ham Peggotty and Little Emily. Sandburg’s poetic insights and Morley’s literary charm shine as they discuss historical anecdotes and Lincoln lore.With a delightful mix of cultural trivia, humor, and thoughtful reflections, this episode offers a nostalgic journey through history and literature. Tune in for an engaging hour of intellectual banter and literary exploration on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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October 9, 1942: Russian Humor and Ragamuffin Royals with Gregory Ratoff
Oct 10, 2024 · 29 min
In this October 9, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman welcomes a lively panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and special guest Gregory Ratoff, the Hollywood director known for his quick wit and colorful anecdotes. Together, they dive into trivia spanning literature, cuisine, and music.The panel debates culinary delights like Eggs Benedict and Chicken Tetrazzini, recalls literary depictions of ragamuffins and shepherds, and identifies fictional characters who went on unusual quests. Ratoff’s humor shines as he spins tales of Russian generals and imparts wisdom on blending whiskey and vodka.With witty banter, cultural insights, and a touch of theatrical flair, this episode promises an engaging mix of humor and intellectual fun. Tune in for an hour of spontaneous brilliance on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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October 2, 1942: Historical Quizzes and Musical Fawns with Robert St. John and Deems Taylor
Oct 3, 2024 · 27 min
In this October 2, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and guests Deems Taylor, celebrated music critic, and Robert St. John, NBC London commentator and author. Together, they navigate an eclectic mix of topics blending history, literature, and music.Highlights include identifying cities like Oslo and Stalingrad by their former names, discussing the fateful leg injury of Benedict Arnold, and exploring operatic deaths, from Verdi’s Othello to Cavalleria Rusticana. Deems Taylor offers musical insights, while Robert St. John shares perspectives from war-torn Europe.With witty debates on kings, composers, and the afternoon musings of fauns, this episode offers a delightful hour of cultural exploration. Tune in for an engaging blend of humor, history, and trivia on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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September 25, 1942: Wartime Quips and Musical Trivia with Leon Henderson
Sep 26, 2024 · 29 min
In this September 25, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and guest Leon Henderson, baritone and director of the Office of Price Administration. Together, they navigate an array of topics blending humor, cultural insight, and wartime trivia.Highlights include questions about percentages in wartime news, poetic references to military ranks, and memorable moments in literature and song. Henderson’s wit shines as the panel discusses rationing, scrap metal slang, and beloved musical compositions like Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony.With a mix of intellectual debates, humor, and cultural nostalgia, this episode offers a captivating hour of lively conversation and unscripted brilliance. Tune in for a thoughtful and entertaining exploration of wartime culture on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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September 18, 1942: Shakespearean Sorcery and Fictional Detectives with Christopher Morley and Orson Welles
Sep 19, 2024 · 29 min
In this September 18, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman moderates a panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, and special guests Christopher Morley, literary critic and novelist, and Orson Welles, the multitalented director and actor. Together, they tackle a variety of topics, blending wit, culture, and theatrical flair.Highlights include debates over Shakespearean tragedies, such as Othello and Macbeth, discussions about famous fictional detectives like Father Brown and Arsène Lupin, and humorous recollections of Welles’ infamous Martian broadcast. Christopher Morley shares his literary insights, while Orson Welles captivates with his sharp humor and theatrical expertise.This episode offers a delightful mix of highbrow trivia, humor, and cultural depth. Tune in for an unforgettable hour of unscripted brilliance and lively banter on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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September 11, 1942: Literary Quips and Musical Birds with Alva Johnston
Sep 12, 2024 · 29 min
In this September 11, 1942, episode of Information Please, Clifton Fadiman leads a lively panel featuring Franklin P. Adams, John Kieran, Oscar Levant, and guest Alva Johnston, the celebrated author and humorist. Together, they tackle a mix of Shakespearean riddles, musical trivia, and historical insights.Highlights include discussions on Shakespeare’s answers to moonlit promises, the birds of famous melodies like The Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square, and the paradox of the Purple Heart. Alva Johnston brings his sharp wit to debates about famous in-law relationships and literary alliances.Blending humor, intellect, and cultural nostalgia, this episode offers an engaging mix of lively trivia and spirited banter. Tune in for a captivating hour of unscripted brilliance on Information Please! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.