Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: 1st Nighter 1948-01-01 The One In The Middle
Release Date: June 16, 2025

Introduction

Harold's Old Time Radio presents a nostalgic journey back to the Golden Age of Radio with its episode titled "1st Nighter 1948-01-01 The One In The Middle." Hosted by Harold's Old Time Radio, this episode features a captivating radio play set in the vibrant ambiance of Times Square's Little Theater on New Year's Eve. The story revolves around Peter Randolph, a recently returned veteran, and his interactions with the charming students at Randolph Seminary for young ladies.

Characters

• Peter Randolph: A newly returned veteran assigned to teach astronomy at Randolph Seminary.
• Franny (Frances Emerson): A young and spirited student with a keen interest in Peter.
• Tabby Benedarit: Peter's sister, assisting in managing the school's affairs and supporting Franny.
• Jean Taylor: The assistant principal and Peter's sister, overseeing the school's operations.
• Marty Dexter: Another student involved in the unfolding drama.
• Larry Keating & First Nighter Orchestra: Provide narration and musical interludes, enhancing the theatrical experience.

Plot Summary

Act 1: A New Beginning

Timestamp: [01:54] – [08:44]

The play opens with Peter Randolph arriving at Randolph Seminary, a prestigious institution struggling to retain its female students. Jean Taylor explains to Peter that the school is facing declining enrollment and believes that his presence as the Navy's gift to the seminary might rejuvenate interest.

Key Scene:

• Peter's Reluctant Acceptance: Despite his lack of expertise in astronomy, Peter reluctantly agrees to teach the subject, believing it's crucial for the school's revival.

  [06:20] Peter: "Oh, no, I'm not. Tabby, you're a very nice sister and I'm extremely fond of you, but you're not that nice and I'm not that fond."

Timestamp: [07:13] – [08:44]

Peter attempts to engage his students but quickly realizes the challenge ahead as he struggles to teach a subject he's unfamiliar with. The students, particularly Franny, show admiration for Peter, setting the stage for budding romantic tensions.

Act 2: Rising Tensions and Confessions

Timestamp: [09:47] – [17:35]

As Peter navigates his new role, the frustrations mount. The students’ enthusiasm for Peter leads to playful interactions, especially between him and Franny. Tabby schemes to win Peter's affection, sensing an opportunity amidst the school's troubles.

Key Scenes:

• Peter's Classroom Struggles: Peter tries to maintain order and teach astronomy but faces distractions from the charming students.

  [11:09] Peter: "Yes, thank you. Now, much as I dislike doing this, I shall have to make an example of you, Franny."

• Tabby's Schemes: Tabby manipulates situations to create opportunities for Peter and Franny to interact, hinting at her affection.

  [16:33] Tabby: "Isn't it a swell day? I bet you're dying for a game of tennis."

• Comedic Relief: Larry Keating and the First Nighter Orchestra interject with advertisements and humorous commentary, adding a light-hearted touch to the unfolding drama.

Climax: The Fire Drill and Confessions

Timestamp: [17:35] – [27:53]

Tensions reach their peak during a staged fire drill orchestrated by Tabby to force Peter into a moment of heroism. The plan backfires when Peter panics, leading to chaos and heightened emotions among the characters.

Key Scenes:

• The Fire Drill: Tabby and the girls simulate a fire to make Peter act heroically, believing it will reveal his true feelings.

  [22:15] Tabby: "We must be losing our grip. We've worked on him now for three weeks."

• Peter's Panic: Overwhelmed by the situation, Peter's inability to respond appropriately causes distress among the students.

  [28:06] Peter: "What? Smoke."

• Accusations and Reveal: Jean discovers the girls' plot and orders a meeting, leading to Tabby’s confession and the revelation of Peter's departure from the school.

  [29:34] Tabby: "I did it, Miss Randolph. Really, I did."

Resolution: Farewells and New Beginnings

Timestamp: [27:53] – [32:53]

In the aftermath of the fire drill, Peter confronts his feelings and the repercussions of the night's events. A heartfelt farewell ensues as Peter decides to leave the school, leaving the students to reflect on their emotions and the future.

Key Scenes:

• Peter's Valedictory Address: Struggling to express his feelings, Peter bids farewell to the students, inadvertently acknowledging the romantic undercurrents.

  [30:03] Peter: "Young ladies, what I have to say can be summed up in one word. Goodbye."

• Tabby's Heartfelt Moments: Tabby expresses her disappointment and lingering affection for Peter, solidifying the emotional climax.

  [31:00] Tabby: "Oh. Oh, how could you?"

• Finale: The play concludes with a promise of future stories and resolutions, maintaining the charm and allure of classic radio dramas.

  [32:15] First Nighter: "The curtains. Now, ladies and gentlemen, on the final act of a new play..."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Peter on Acceptance:

   [06:20] Peter: "Oh, no, I'm not. Tabby, you're a very nice sister and I'm extremely fond of you, but you're not that nice and I'm not that fond."

2. Tabby on Peter's Preference:

   [16:33] Tabby: "Isn't it a swell day? I bet you're dying for a game of tennis."

3. Peter's Farewell:

   [30:03] Peter: "Young ladies, what I have to say can be summed up in one word. Goodbye."

4. Tabby's Confession:

   [29:34] Tabby: "I did it, Miss Randolph. Really, I did."

5. Final Emotional Plea:

   [31:23] Peter: "Well, I just thought everyone should know which one it is. And has been all the time."

Conclusion

"The One In The Middle" offers a delightful glimpse into post-war America, highlighting the societal dynamics and romantic entanglements of the time. Through engaging characters and witty dialogues, the play captures the essence of community, love, and personal growth. Harold's Old Time Radio successfully revives the magic of classic radio plays, making this episode a must-listen for enthusiasts yearning for the charm of bygone eras.

Insights and Reflections

• Post-War Adjustments: The story subtly explores the challenges veterans face when reintegrating into civilian life, mirrored by Peter's struggle to adapt to his new role.

• Gender Dynamics: The interactions between Peter and the female students reflect the societal expectations and romantic pursuits prevalent in the late 1940s.

• Community and Support: Tabby's efforts to support her sister and the school's revival underscore the importance of community and familial bonds.

Final Thoughts

For listeners unfamiliar with this episode, "The One In The Middle" promises an engaging narrative enriched with humor, romance, and the timeless appeal of classic radio storytelling. Dive into this episode to experience a heartfelt tale that resonates with themes of love, duty, and the quest for personal fulfillment.