ABC Stage 67
ABC Stage 67 is the umbrella title for a series of 26 weekly shows that included dramas, variety shows, documentaries, and original musicals. It premiered on American Broadcasting Company on September 14, 1966 with Murray Schisgal's The Love Song of Barney Kempinksi, directed by Stanley Prager and starring Alan Arkin as a man enjoying the sights and sounds of New York City in his last remaining hours of bachelorhood. Arkin was nominated for an Emmy Award for Outstanding Single Performance By An Actor in a Leading Role in a Drama and the program was nominated as Outstanding Dramatic Program. Future programs included appearances by Petula Clark, Bobby Darin, Sir Laurence Olivier, Albert Finney, Peter Sellers, David Frost, and Jack Paar. ABC's effort to bring culture to the masses was a noble but unsuccessful experiment. Scheduled first against I Spy on Wednesdays and then The Dean Martin Show on Thursdays, the show consistently received low ratings. Its last production, an adaptation of Jean Cocteau's one-woman play The Human Voice starring Ingrid Bergman, aired on May 4, 1967. "Stage 67" was not actually a part of the primary ABC facilities in Los Angeles. It was produced at the old Monogram Studios backlot that was later sold to KCET.
Insights
Plot Summary
ABC Stage 67 was a groundbreaking anthology television series that presented a diverse range of original dramas, comedies, and experimental plays. Each week brought a unique story, often pushing the boundaries of television with innovative direction, writing, and production techniques. The series aimed to showcase new talent and explore challenging themes, offering viewers a curated collection of theatrical experiences.
Critical Reception
ABC Stage 67 was critically acclaimed for its artistic ambition and its role in bringing avant-garde and original theatrical works to a mainstream television audience. It was lauded for its willingness to take risks and its commitment to showcasing diverse voices and challenging content, though its experimental nature meant some episodes resonated more than others.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its innovative spirit and willingness to explore diverse theatrical forms.
- Recognized for providing a platform for new writers and directors.
- Appreciated for its bold artistic choices in an era of traditional programming.
Google audience: While specific Google user reviews from the 1960s are not readily available, historical commentary suggests audiences were intrigued by the show's unique format and artistic aspirations, appreciating the variety and creativity it offered.
Fun Fact
The series is notable for featuring the directorial debut of acclaimed filmmaker Frank Oz with his short film 'Scenes from the Real World'.
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