Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – A Program of Canada #09 with Herbert Marshall

Release Date: January 15, 2025
Host: Harolds Old Time Radio
Episode Title: A Program of Canada #09 with Herbert Marshall

Harold's Old Time Radio takes listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio in its episode titled "A Program of Canada #09 with Herbert Marshall." Released on January 15, 2025, this episode celebrates Canadian culture and its intertwined relationship with the United States through engaging performances and insightful discussions featuring renowned actor Herbert Marshall.

1. Introduction

The episode opens with Rupert Lucas introducing the featured guest, Giselle of Canada, a talented singer known for her bilingual performances in English and French. Rupert sets the stage by highlighting the special guest of the episode, esteemed actor Herbert Marshall.

• [00:18] Rupert Lucas: "Introducing Giselle of Canada."
• [00:21] Rupert Lucas: "Ladies and gentlemen, mesdames, Giselle of Canada singing and playing her songs in English and French. ... and for that brilliant actor, Herbert Marshall, who is our guest today."

2. Musical Performances

a. Herbert Marshall Performs "Cuban Pete"

Herbert Marshall captivates the audience with his rendition of "Cuban Pete," showcasing his versatility not just as an actor but also as a performer. The lively performance includes spirited vocals that bring the classic tune to life, setting an energetic tone for the episode.

• [00:49] Herbert Marshall: "They call him Cuban Pete he's the king of the room..." (Herbert Marshall performs the song)

The performance continues with infectious rhythms and engaging lyrics that reflect the vibrant essence of the song.

b. Giselle Performs "Ta l'étude"

Following Marshall's performance, Giselle presents a French song titled "Ta l'étude." Her rendition adds a cultural depth to the program, blending seamlessly with the bilingual theme of the episode.

• [02:25] Giselle: "Chat with Herbert Marshall, I'd like to sing a little French song called Ta l'étude."
• [02:30] Rupert Lucas: "Oh, a kind of a Swiss echo song, eh?"
• [02:33] Giselle: "Sort of."

Giselle's performance is praised for its melodic quality and emotional resonance, providing a smooth transition into the subsequent discussions.

c. Additional Musical Interludes

Throughout the episode, Giselle and Herbert Marshall engage in multiple musical segments, including duets and silent reveries, which add a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio.

• [07:27] Giselle: "Every time I see Herbert Marshall in a film, I always feel like singing this."

These performances not only entertain but also reinforce the cultural connections between the performers and the audience.

3. Interview: Herbert Marshall on US-Canada Relations

A significant portion of the episode features an insightful dialogue between Herbert Marshall and an unknown actor, delving into the enduring friendship and economic ties between Canada and the United States.

a. The Essence of Friendship

Herbert Marshall eloquently describes the bilateral relationship, emphasizing mutual respect and cooperation.

• [06:31] Herbert Marshall: "Of course it is. We both need each other and depend on each other. Our futures are bound up together."
• [07:16] Herbert Marshall: "In other words, Bart, friendship's not only natural and fun, it's a sound business proposition."

b. Economic Interdependence

The discussion highlights the economic symbiosis, where both nations benefit from shared resources and markets.

• [05:01] Unknown Actor: "Just to give you one personal reason. Those of us in motion pictures know that a big share of the income from those pictures comes from Canada."
• [06:02] Unknown Actor: "There'd be no Canadian nickel, platinum, asbestos, gold, silver, copper, zinc, lead. We'd have to start on a new hunt for uranium ore."

c. Cultural Integration

Marshall and his co-speaker reflect on the cultural intertwining, citing celebrations that blend American and Canadian traditions.

• [05:10] Unknown Actor: "When we meet Canadians, we don't find them separated from us by any boundary line, imaginary or otherwise."
• [05:32] Unknown Actor: "Stars and Stripes over in Canada celebrating Confederation on the 1st. Union Jacks marching through Buffaloes celebrating American independence on the 4th."

d. Shared Progress and Future Collaboration

The dialogue underscores the potential for future collaborations, such as large-scale projects like the St. Lawrence Seaway, which symbolize the shared progress and mutual benefits.

• [06:19] Unknown Actor: "Furthermore, we couldn't print much about it because there'd be no Canadian newsprint."
• [07:22] Unknown Actor: "That's one way of putting it. And a mighty good one too."

This segment powerfully conveys the message that the US and Canada are not just neighbors but integral partners in economic and cultural spheres.

4. Closing Remarks

As the episode nears its end, Giselle expresses her gratitude towards Herbert Marshall for his participation.

• [13:06] Rupert Lucas: "Well, that was Giselle's way of saying thank you to Herbert Marshall for being her guest today."

Looking forward, Rupert hints at future content featuring other legendary acts.

• [13:15] Giselle: "Two of the funniest people in radio. And you can guess who."
• [13:17] Rupert Lucas: "Well, I take one guess only Burns and Allen."
• [13:21] Giselle: "Right. Until then, for Rupert Lucas and myself, I'll say au revoir."

Notable Quotes

1. Herbert Marshall on Mutual Dependence:

   • "[06:31] 'We both need each other and depend on each other. Our futures are bound up together.'"
     Emphasizes the intertwined destinies of the US and Canada.

2. On Friendship as a Business Proposition:

   • "[07:16] 'Friendship's not only natural and fun, it's a sound business proposition.'"
     Highlights the practical benefits of the national friendship.

3. Cultural Blend During Celebrations:

   • "[05:32] 'Stars and Stripes over in Canada celebrating Confederation on the 1st. Union Jacks marching through Buffaloes celebrating American independence on the 4th.'"
     Illustrates the harmonious cultural exchanges between the two nations.

Conclusion

"A Program of Canada #09 with Herbert Marshall" masterfully combines musical performances with meaningful discussions, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and the profound bond between Canada and the United States. Through Herbert Marshall's engaging presence and Giselle's captivating performances, the episode offers listeners both entertainment and enlightenment, encapsulating the essence of the Golden Age of Radio.

Harold's Old Time Radio continues to deliver nostalgic and informative content, bridging past and present for enthusiasts of classic radio programming.