Warner Brothers Academy Theater 38-04-03 One Way Passage

Summary

Harold's Old Time Radio – Episode Summary

Episode Title: Warner Brothers Academy Theater 38-04-03 One Way Passage
Release Date: March 29, 2025
Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio

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Introduction

In this episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with the premiere presentation of One Way Passage by the Warner Brothers Academy Theater. This radio drama showcases a gripping romantic narrative intertwined with suspense, highlighting the exceptional talent nurtured by the Warner Brothers Academy. The episode also features notable endorsements from actors and an engaging storyline that captivates the audience from start to finish.

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Setting the Stage

J.L. Warner introduces the evening's presentation, emphasizing the Warner Brothers Academy's role in developing non-screen actresses into Hollywood stars. Henry O'Neill, a seasoned character actor, expresses pride in the Academy's achievements:

"For years I have hesitated to have any publicity regarding this Academy of ours, although I am proud to say we consider it one of our most successful efforts, ranking it even with such pictures."
— Henry O'Neill [02:21]

The dedication to showcasing emerging talent is further highlighted as Robert Lord, the story's author and producer, shares his excitement:

"One of the penalties of being an author is the excitement and nervousness you experience on your own opening night... Two such excellent performers as Ronald Reagan and Gloria Dixon are to play Dan and Joan."
— Robert Lord [03:23]

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Plot Overview

One Way Passage unfolds aboard a ship cruising from Shanghai to San Francisco, where Dan (played by Ronald Reagan) and Joan (played by Gloria Dixon) meet and form a fleeting yet intense connection.

Act One: The Meeting

In a bustling waterfront bar, Dan and Joan's first interaction is marked by the sharing of a "paradise cocktail." Their chemistry is immediate, leading to a heartfelt toast:

"Matter of fact, no man should ever drink a paradise cocktail alone. It's sacrilege."
— Ronald Reagan as Dan [05:56]

Their conversation hints at deeper emotions and impending separation, as Joan reveals her imminent departure:

"I'm sailing at noon. He suddenly asked. I'm sorry too. Well, here's hail and farewell."
— Gloria Dixon as Joan [06:35]

Act Two: Rising Tension

As the ship approaches San Francisco, Dan grapples with his secret: he's a convict on the brink of arrest. Henry O'Neill's character, Dr. Travers, warns Joan about her fragile health, adding layers of suspense:

"Joan must have absolute rest and quiet if she is ever to reach the mainland alive."
— Henry O'Neill as Dr. Travers [19:19]

The impending danger intensifies when Dan confesses his predicament to Dr. Travers:

"Doctor, the ship's moving. We're on our way again. I guess Steve told you. They're going to hang me, Doctor. They're going to hang me for murder."
— Ronald Reagan as Dan [19:35]

Act Three: The Climax

As the ship docks, Dan's plan unravels. He attempts to reconcile with Joan amid the chaos of his impending arrest. The tension culminates when Steve Burke, a detective, intervenes:

"You must quiet now. Try to sleep. She's resting."
— Ronald Reagan as Dan [18:42]

In a poignant farewell, Dan promises Joan everlasting memories:

"Not goodbye, Joan. Ever. Remember our vetas."
— Ronald Reagan as Dan [23:56]

Joan's desperation to keep Dan safe leads to a tragic conclusion, underscored by Henry O'Neill's revelation of Dan's fate:

"They're going to hang him."
— Henry O'Neill as Dr. Travers [22:47]

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Key Characters and Performances

• Dan Hardesty (Ronald Reagan): A charismatic yet tormented convict seeking redemption and love aboard the ship. Reagan's portrayal captures Dan's vulnerability and inner conflict, making him a sympathetic protagonist.

• Joan (Gloria Dixon): A spirited and passionate woman whose brief encounter with Dan leaves a lasting impact. Dixon's performance brings depth to Joan's character, illustrating her struggle between love and fear.

• Dr. Travers (Henry O'Neill): The ship's doctor who becomes entangled in Dan's plight. O'Neill delivers a compelling portrayal of a man torn between duty and compassion.

• Steve Burke (Gail Gordon): The persistent detective determined to capture Dan. Gordon's performance adds tension and urgency to the narrative.

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Notable Quotes

• "One of the penalties of being an author is the excitement and nervousness you experience on your own opening night."
  — Robert Lord [03:23]

• "Not at all. That's quite all right. You have some more there in the shaker, haven't you, Joe?"
  — Ronald Reagan as Dan [05:55]

• "Gloria for her fine work in they Won't Forget. And Ronald Regan will soon be on the screen in Cowboy from Brooklyn."
  — Robert Lord [03:26]

• "You're mindful, you're alert. You're always on."
  — Nicole Byer [08:26] (Advertisement, Skipped in Detailed Summary)

Note: Only in-content quotes are included; advertisements have been excluded as per instructions.

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Conclusion

Warner Brothers Academy Theater's One Way Passage is a masterful radio drama that weaves romance and suspense into a compelling narrative. Featuring stellar performances by Ronald Reagan, Gloria Dixon, and Henry O'Neill, the episode encapsulates the essence of the Golden Age of Radio. The storyline's emotional depth, combined with the Academy's commitment to nurturing talent, makes this episode a standout presentation. As J.L. Warner aptly concludes, the collaborative efforts of the cast and crew shine brightly, promising continued excellence in future productions.

"Will be having this drink just at midnight... All right. Hey, waiter. Bring the doctor's drink, these in yours. We'll be having this drink just at midnight."
— Henry O'Neill as Dr. Travers [24:26]

This memorable episode not only entertains but also honors the rich tradition of radio storytelling, making it a must-listen for enthusiasts of classic radio dramas.

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Acknowledgments

Special thanks to Robert Lord, Gloria Dixon, Ronald Reagan, Henry O'Neill, and Gail Gordon for their outstanding contributions to this production. Additionally, gratitude is extended to the Warner Brothers Academy for providing a platform that cultivates exceptional talent.

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*Note: Advertisements and non-content sections have been meticulously excluded to focus solely on the narrative and performances within One Way Passage.

Transcript

[Nicole Byer]

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[Ronald Reagan]

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[Narrator]

Grand pride from Hollywood. Warner Brothers Academy presents One Way Passage. The American public has learned to trust a grue and watch as the timepiece party are excellent. The Gruen Watch Company has designing beautiful watches today. The smart styling of the newest Gruen watches makes Gruen more than ever the proudest name. In time, your Gruen jeweler joins with the Gruen Watch Company in the sincere hope that you will find pleasure in these broadcasts.

[J.L. Warner]

Tonight's premiere is a presentation of the Warner Brothers Academy, which has for the past five years given secret performances for the executives, producers, directors and stars of Hollywood. Tonight, for the first time, Gruen makes it possible with the playing of One Way Passage for the American public to join this exclusive audience. The Academy was founded by Warner Brothers five years ago for the purpose of developing motion picture actresses who have won their stripes in some medium of the drama other than the screen. In our audience tonight are many stars who have interested themselves in the Academy. We are further honored tonight to present a man whose interest in the Academy has been so evident that he has never missed a performance and who is personally responsible for the success of many of today's stars. Mr. J.L. warner, executive vice president in charge of production of Warner Brothers Pictures.

[Henry O'Neill]

For years I have hesitated to have any publicity regarding this Academy of ours, although I am proud to say we consider it one of our most successful efforts, ranking it even with such pictures.

[Ronald Reagan]

As the life of Amel Zola, Gold.

[Henry O'Neill]

Is where you find it and Jezebel. Associated with it have been such personalities as Earl Flynn, Wayne Morris, Edward G. Robinson, Dick Powell, James Cagney and Bette Davis. And now, since we are convinced that it is possible to present these players to the public through the medium of radio, you are tonight for the first time invited to join us. I sincerely hope that you enjoy the young players of this Academy in One Way passage.

[J.L. Warner]

Thank you, Mr. Warner. The honor of ringing up the curtain on One Way Passage goes to the man who won the Academy Award by writing tonight's story and who is now one of the most important producers on the Warner Brothers lot, Mr. Robert Lord.

[Robert Lord]

One of the penalties of being an author is the excitement and nervousness you experience on your own opening night. Five years ago, I went through that experience and thought I was finished with it. But now here is One Way Passage again having another first night. And here am I, just as nervous and excited. It is before. Whatever calmness I possess this evening is due to the knowledge that two such excellent performers as Ronald Regan and Gloria Dixon are to play Dan and John. These young players are an example of what the Warner Academy has accomplished by way of developing potential screen stars. You'll remember Gloria for her fine work in they Won't Forget. And Ronald Regan will soon be on the screen in Cowboy from Brooklyn. As evidence of the genuine interest shown by successful Hollywood stars in the players of the Warner Academy, we have with us Henry O'Neill, one of the finest character actors in Hollywood. He is Paul Muni's first choice for every picture that he makes tonight. He has graciously offered his services in support of these young players and will be heard in the role of Dr. Travers. But now it's curtain time, and I get a real thrill in saying, on with the show.

[Narrator]

One Way Passage. The story of One Way Passage has its beginning in a cosmopolitan bar on the waterfront in Shanghai, where a distinction distinctly American voice discusses with a distinctly American bartender the right ingredients for the perfect cocktail.

[Ronald Reagan]

Careful now, Joe. Not too much.

[Henry O'Neill]

Just a drop, partner. Just a drop. There.

[Ronald Reagan]

Say, that's great.

[Henry O'Neill]

And just a bit of stirring ever.

[Ronald Reagan]

So gently wouldn't do to shake it.

[Henry O'Neill]

Oh, no, absolutely.

[Robert Lord]

You can't break up good liquor in a shaker.

[Henry O'Neill]

Believe me, friend, I wouldn't make one of these for a foreigner. Well, there she is. A paradise cocktail. And thanks to you. Go ahead, taste it.

[Ronald Reagan]

Well, Joe, here's answer.

[Gloria Dixon]

Oh.

[Henry O'Neill]

Oh, now, lady, look what you've done.

[Gloria Dixon]

Oh, I. I'm sorry.

[Ronald Reagan]

Not at all. That's quite all right. You have some more there in the shaker, haven't you, Joe? You'll have to join me, you know, Joe, two glasses.

[Gloria Dixon]

Oh, no, I.

[Ronald Reagan]

Matter of fact, no man should ever drink a paradise cocktail alone. It's. Well, it's sacrilege.

[Henry O'Neill]

There you are, partner.

[Ronald Reagan]

It's like watching a beautiful sunset all by yourself. Shall we?

[Gloria Dixon]

Oh, yes, of course.

[Ronald Reagan]

And here's to you, miss.

[Gloria Dixon]

My name's Joan.

[Ronald Reagan]

Mine's Dan.

[Gloria Dixon]

Oh, that's lovely.

[Ronald Reagan]

I see you have a few drops left.

[Gloria Dixon]

Few drops? Always the most precious.

[Ronald Reagan]

Well, just a moment. Those last few drops, let's drink them to our Meeting?

[Gloria Dixon]

Our brief meeting. I'm sailing at noon.

[Ronald Reagan]

I'm sorry.

[Gloria Dixon]

He suddenly asked. I'm sorry too. Well, here's hail and farewell.

[Ronald Reagan]

Oh, that sounds too ruthless, I tell you. Let's say our feeders ain't half beaters.

[Gloria Dixon]

The last few drops.

[Ronald Reagan]

And Joan.

[Gloria Dixon]

Yes, Dan?

[Ronald Reagan]

It's not that these two glasses will only remember this moment. Let's break them.

[Gloria Dixon]

Right. Hello.

[Ronald Reagan]

Gee, she was a pretty lady. Yes, wasn't she? You know, Joe, for the first time, I almost wish I were sailing on that boat.

[Henry O'Neill]

Hello, Dan.

[Ronald Reagan]

If it isn't Steve Burke.

[Henry O'Neill]

Me not almost giving up hope, running into you and Danny boy. You'd see him being back in Frisco again.

[Ronald Reagan]

Should ask that.

[Henry O'Neill]

Maybe we'd better get going. Wouldn't want to miss the boat any better. Joan.

[Gloria Dixon]

Yes, Doctor? I think I'll go out a while. Walk around the deck, do something.

[Henry O'Neill]

I don't believe I'd leave my stateroom if I were you. You see, you've been going at too fast a pace.

[Gloria Dixon]

What you really mean, what you're too kind to say, is that if I remain in my stateroom and lie in bed, deny myself everything, even the mildest diversions, I may live to arrive at a charming sanitarium.

[Henry O'Neill]

But when? It's a question of your own life, I'm afraid.

[Nicole Byer]

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[Henry O'Neill]

Ugh.

[Nicole Byer]

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[Gloria Dixon]

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[Nicole Byer]

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[Gloria Dixon]

But a drab picture, doctor.

[Henry O'Neill]

You're the steward on the deck, aren't you?

[Narrator]

What else is.

[Gloria Dixon]

Where's that voice coming from?

[Henry O'Neill]

Someone on deck coming through the porthole.

[Ronald Reagan]

I'm looking for a young lady. Maybe you'll see her.

[Henry O'Neill]

You'd better get back in bed, Joan. Anything special you want?

[Gloria Dixon]

You know what I want. Suddenly I want to crowd all of the intense, beautiful happiness in the world and what little life I have lived. I want to live a lifetime. Before this boat we to San Francisco. And I'm going to do it, Joan, if it's only for a few hours, I mean to have it. All of the happiness I can get my hands on. Now, you. You'd better leave, doctor. All right, I'm going on deck.

[Ronald Reagan]

Now, look, bartender, think real hard. You must have seen her.

[Henry O'Neill]

It's surprising how little you notice the customers. You know, when you're in my business.

[J.L. Warner]

They all look alike.

[Ronald Reagan]

Oh, you'd be sure to notice her. Now, look, she's about so tall, and.

[Gloria Dixon]

Her name is Joan.

[Henry O'Neill]

What? Joan.

[Gloria Dixon]

Hello, Dan.

[Ronald Reagan]

Joan, I've been looking all over this boat for you.

[Henry O'Neill]

For the past two days.

[Ronald Reagan]

I've made a nuisance of myself asking everyone. Where have you been?

[Gloria Dixon]

Well, I, I. Well, we just must have missed each other.

[Ronald Reagan]

Bartender, please put that drink in two glasses. Joan, I haven't been able to forget you.

[Gloria Dixon]

And I haven't been able to forgive you.

[Ronald Reagan]

To us. Lovely.

[Gloria Dixon]

Now the glasses.

[Ronald Reagan]

By all means. There they go. Shattered, but with a beautiful memory out.

[Gloria Dixon]

In a blaze of glory. That's the way, isn't it, Dan?

[Ronald Reagan]

You found that out, too?

[Gloria Dixon]

Yes.

[Henry O'Neill]

Hello, Dan. Been wondering what you were up to.

[Ronald Reagan]

Oh, Joan, this uncouth gentleman is Mr. Burke. He. He's a friend of mine. We're traveling together.

[Henry O'Neill]

Lady, I don't like to break up your little soiree, but if you don't mind, I'd like to talk to your boyfriend.

[Ronald Reagan]

Oh, now, look, Steve, I. Okay, Joan, please excuse me, will you? I'll call for you later.

[Gloria Dixon]

All right, then I'll be waiting for you. My. My stateroom is D12 on the top deck.

[Ronald Reagan]

Then I'll call for you.

[Henry O'Neill]

Glad to have met you later.

[Gloria Dixon]

I'm glad to have met new, too.

[Henry O'Neill]

Hey, what's the percentage in mooning around with a dame like that?

[Ronald Reagan]

That's something you wouldn't understand. Well, Steve, what's on your mind?

[Henry O'Neill]

I just want to have a little talk with you. You know we get Honolulu tomorrow.

[Ronald Reagan]

Yes, I know.

[Henry O'Neill]

And in case you got any ideas.

[Ronald Reagan]

You're not worrying about the idea, are you? Why, Mr. Burke.

[Henry O'Neill]

Oh, no, I ain't worrying. But just the same, don't forget, we're sticking together. Come on, let's do about 40 turns around the day. Keeps you in shape.

[Ronald Reagan]

What's the percentage of me keeping in shape?

[Henry O'Neill]

Yeah. Yeah, that's a good one.

[Ronald Reagan]

Are you tired, Joan?

[Gloria Dixon]

Tired? Oh, darling, no. I'm too excited. Oh, Dan, this has been the most wonderful evening. Just look at that moon on the water. And just think that straight ahead in the path of that moon, my prince, we have Honolulu tomorrow. We'll be there.

[Ronald Reagan]

That's right.

[Gloria Dixon]

What are we going to do ashore? Darling, let's plan every minute.

[Ronald Reagan]

Let's not plan anything now, Joan. Let's just wait and see what happens.

[Gloria Dixon]

Don't seem very enthusiastic about it.

[Ronald Reagan]

Well, there's something that might keep me on board for Dan.

[Gloria Dixon]

Dan and I counted on if I won't be able to sleep tonight till you promise me you'll go.

[Ronald Reagan]

Well, all right. I'll meet you at the beach boy, at a little.

[Gloria Dixon]

I'll be there.

[Ronald Reagan]

Shall we say an hour after the boat docks?

[Gloria Dixon]

Shall we?

[Ronald Reagan]

And Joan, if something happens, if I don't get there. Well, you wait an hour. That's all.

[J.L. Warner]

The curtain falls on the first act of one way passes.

[Narrator]

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[J.L. Warner]

The curtain rises on the second act of one way passage.

[Gloria Dixon]

Oh, Dan, Dan, it's all been so wonderful. Such fun having lunch in the little cafe so heavenly here in this quiet little cove.

[Ronald Reagan]

Joan, do you love me?

[Gloria Dixon]

More than anything in the whole world? I love you more than. More than life.

[Ronald Reagan]

Daniel, would you be content to spend the rest of your life with me in some far off, isolated place?

[Gloria Dixon]

Of course, Ben, anywhere. But why so serious?

[Ronald Reagan]

I could send for you.

[Gloria Dixon]

Send me for me?

[Ronald Reagan]

You see, dear, there are certain matters that may take me halfway around the world.

[Gloria Dixon]

Helen. Don't send for me. Dan. I'll go with you. There. That.

[Ronald Reagan]

Darling, I've got to tell you.

[Gloria Dixon]

Well, if it's serious, I don't want to hear it. Not today.

[Ronald Reagan]

But Joan.

[Gloria Dixon]

No, Dan, don't talk. Just hold me in your arms. Dad, I hate to go back on that ship. I've had the Most glorious day.

[Henry O'Neill]

You two going on board?

[Gloria Dixon]

Well, yes. Is that the idea?

[Henry O'Neill]

Two minutes to sailing time. You better hurry.

[Ronald Reagan]

Joan, there's something I've been trying to tell you all day.

[Gloria Dixon]

Not now, darling. We haven't time.

[Ronald Reagan]

I must tell you now. Here, let me hold you close and. Please understand. Dad, I'm not going back on the ship.

[Gloria Dixon]

You're not? You're not?

[Ronald Reagan]

Joan, darling.

[J.L. Warner]

What's going on here?

[Henry O'Neill]

She's. She's fainted. You want me to help you carry her?

[Ronald Reagan]

No, I can do that. All right, I can carry her.

[Henry O'Neill]

I'll take her aboard. Stand tight, everybody.

[Narrator]

Let him through. Come on, open up a bath.

[Ronald Reagan]

Come on.

[Henry O'Neill]

She'll be all right. Are you sure? Yes, but she must have absolute quiet and rest. I was very much against her going ashore today.

[Ronald Reagan]

Oh, it was my fault, Doctor. But if you're sure she's going to be all right, I'll be leaving very tonight.

[Gloria Dixon]

Dan. Dan.

[Ronald Reagan]

Yes, dear?

[Gloria Dixon]

Don't leave me.

[Ronald Reagan]

You must be quiet now. Try to sleep. She's resting. Then I. I think I'll go on.

[Henry O'Neill]

I'll walk out into the corridor with you. I want to tell you something.

[Ronald Reagan]

All right, but hurry it up, will you, Doctor?

[Henry O'Neill]

Dan, I want you to help me. Has Joan told you about herself?

[Ronald Reagan]

What do you mean?

[Henry O'Neill]

Joan must have absolute rest and quiet if she is ever to reach the mainland alive.

[Ronald Reagan]

I didn't know it was that bad.

[Henry O'Neill]

Yeah, she's had several attacks like this one. She survived them. But it isn't humanly possible that she could survive another. The slightest excitement might kill her. A shock surely would. And, Dan, I know the shock.

[Ronald Reagan]

Doctor, you've been talking to Steve.

[Henry O'Neill]

Yes, I have.

[Ronald Reagan]

Then you know that Steve is a cop who finally caught up with me. That I'm under arrest.

[Henry O'Neill]

Yes, I know. But can we find some way to keep it from her?

[Ronald Reagan]

I don't know how. If I could go over the side when we're out at sea to keep her from knowing, I'd gladly do it, but that wouldn't help. Doctor, the ship's moving. We're on our way again. I gave Steve the slip today, then I came back. That was my last chance, Doctor. The next time the boat stops, they'll turn me over to San Quentin. I guess Steve told you. They're going to hang me, Doctor. They're going to hang me for murder.

[Gloria Dixon]

There it is, then. Golden Gate. We'll be in San Francisco quicker than you can say Paradise Cocktail.

[Ronald Reagan]

Yes. Won't be long.

[Gloria Dixon]

You're not very cheerful about it. What'll we do tonight, darling. Let's go someplace and drink a dozen paradise cocktails.

[Ronald Reagan]

A Golden Gate.

[Gloria Dixon]

You know, I remember an old song. It goes, keep those golden gates wide open. Keep those gates ajar.

[Ronald Reagan]

Yes, I remember it. I was born in San Francisco. When I was a youngster, I always thought they were singing about this gate. I thought it was the only one. Hope you're wrong. So do I. Joan, about those cocktails. I won't be able to see you tonight because I've got to go to Mexico.

[Gloria Dixon]

Mexico?

[Henry O'Neill]

Yes.

[Ronald Reagan]

I'm sorry, dear. As soon as the boat docks, I must leave.

[Gloria Dixon]

You're going to Mexico?

[Ronald Reagan]

I must go. I may have to stay there a long time.

[Gloria Dixon]

All right, then, Dan. I'll meet you in Agua Caliente for New Year.

[Ronald Reagan]

It's a date.

[Henry O'Neill]

Come on, Dan. Let's go down to the stateroom. We got a little business to take care of before the boat gets in.

[Ronald Reagan]

Joan, I'll meet you in your stateroom to say goodbye. Wait for me, Joan. That's it. You wait for me.

[Henry O'Neill]

Hello, miss. What can I do for you?

[Gloria Dixon]

Well, I was looking for Dan. Mr. Hardesty. Isn't this his stateroom?

[Ronald Reagan]

Sure it is, miss.

[Gloria Dixon]

Well, I was waiting for him in my stateroom, but he didn't come. Dinores.

[Henry O'Neill]

I don't know where he is exactly, but I know where he's going. I was never so shocked in me life. All the time I was thinking he was a gentleman. And a fine gentleman, too, you might say.

[Gloria Dixon]

What happened?

[Henry O'Neill]

What happened? His pal, you might rightly say, puts a pair of blooming handcuffs on him and out they go.

[Gloria Dixon]

What do you say?

[Henry O'Neill]

It's the truth. So help me, miss. It's friend told me so. He says they're going to hang him.

[Gloria Dixon]

No. No, it can't be. Dang, Dan, I've got to find you.

[Narrator]

D.

[Ronald Reagan]

Oh, Joan, we were just leaving.

[Gloria Dixon]

I know, I know.

[Henry O'Neill]

Sorry to upset you like this, Ms. Ames, but we wasn't expecting you.

[Ronald Reagan]

Joan, I. I'm sorry it had to come like this. I wanted to tell you.

[Gloria Dixon]

Well, I, I. I only wanted to say goodbye, Dan.

[Ronald Reagan]

Not goodbye, Joan. Ever. Remember our vetas.

[Gloria Dixon]

And remember. Remember our guardalian.

[Henry O'Neill]

Off.

[Gloria Dixon]

Beat it.

[Henry O'Neill]

Happy New Year.

[Nicole Byer]

Happy New Year.

[Henry O'Neill]

I beg your pardon, but aren't you Mr. Burke? Huh? Oh, sure, sure, I remember you. You're that doctor fella.

[Ronald Reagan]

Yeah.

[Henry O'Neill]

I met you on the boat. Yes. You're the detective who was with Mr. Dan Hardesty. That's right. What are you doing in Caliente? Oh, I came down here on a Sunday Sort of a vacation. Sort of change of scene. Might do me good. Yeah, yeah, same with me. Bring your drink over here. We'll have one together. All right. Hey, waiter. Bring the doctor's drink, these in yours. We'll be having this drink just at midnight. See? It's almost 12.

[Ronald Reagan]

Yeah.

[Henry O'Neill]

Better run into you, Doc. I was getting kind of lonesome. Kind of down in the Down. Your drink. Oh, thank you. I guess maybe we ought to drink this one to Dan and Ms. Ames, don't you think? I was just going to suggest that myself. It was tough. They had to hang. Yes, I read about it in the paper. Too bad. I like him. Death wasn't bad enough. The guy had to fall in love. What about the lady? Did she take it hard? She died too, you know. I. I heard him say agua caliente, New Year's Eve. What was that? Oh, just somebody broke a couple of glasses. Well.

[Ronald Reagan]

Here'S tumult.

[J.L. Warner]

And the curtain falls on one way passage and on the premiere presentation by Gruen of the Warner Academy Theater. And congratulations are certainly due all around to Mr. Robert Lord, Gloria Dixon, Ronald Reagan, Henry O'Neill and Gail Gordon, who was heard in the role of Steve. Before we say good night, we're going to call on one of the staunch supporters, an alumnus of the Academy who has been sitting in the audience throughout tonight's show. He's the star of Warner Brothers new picture over the Wall. And you have seen him in many fine screen roles. We turn the spotlight on Dick Paran. Dick, will you come up here, please? Just a moment.

[Narrator]

While Dick Boran is coming up on the stage, I want to urge you to visit your Gruen jeweler tomorrow. There you will find the Gruen curve X. In the Gruen curve X, the beautiful and graceful lines of the curved case are filled with a rugged full size curved movement. A curved watch must have a curved movement unless accuracy is to be sacrificed. Only the Gruen Curvex combines beauty and dependability. For this Curvex principle is patented exclusively by Gruen. Also, at your Gruen Judas, you will find a wide variety of Gruen watches, all beautifully styled by the world's leading watch designers. All made in the Gruen tradition of precision, workmanship and price to suit every need and fit your pocketbook. Insist on the name Gruen on the dial of your new watch. Gruen. G R U E N. The proudest name in time Dick Foran meet the audience.

[Henry O'Neill]

Well, before I talk about anything else, I'd like to tell Ronnie and Gloria what a swell job they did tonight.

[J.L. Warner]

I suppose it's natural for you to feel that way, Dick, since Gloria Dixon and Ronald Reagan are your colleagues, so to speak.

[Henry O'Neill]

Well, sure. It's like watching your own team come through with a win.

[J.L. Warner]

I see. Dick, one of these nights we're going to put you to work on this stage. Which reminds me to ask what you're doing about your own career right now.

[Henry O'Neill]

Well, I whipped over this Evening from stage 19, the set of Boy Meets Girl. But look here, let's leave me out of this. I think Gloria and Ronnie should come out for a curtain speech.

[J.L. Warner]

How about it? A grand idea.

[Henry O'Neill]

Come on, you two. This is opening night. You've got to stand still for congratulations.

[Gloria Dixon]

You'll have to give me a little time, Dick. I'm going to take a while for you to forget that I'm not Joan.

[Henry O'Neill]

Well, how do you feel, Ronnie?

[Ronald Reagan]

Well, Dan Hardesty's been one of my favorite screen characters for a long time, and I feel a little humble that I was allowed to play him tonight.

[Gloria Dixon]

And say, while we're throwing bouquets, I saw over the Wall last night, Dick, you as well.

[Ronald Reagan]

I thought you'd like one way passage, Dick, because you played a convict in over the Wall. Of course, I know both scenes. Because you're in prison.

[Henry O'Neill]

Well, it's no movie Sid, either, because the story was written by a man who knows about Pittsburgh Warden Louis E. Law is a sing thing. And after sitting on that set behind iron bars for several weeks. You know, I can sympathize with Dan Hardesty.

[Gloria Dixon]

But you sing your way out of jail, which makes your ending happier than bad.

[Henry O'Neill]

Well, I'll be a lot happier when my turn comes to do a play at this theater if I turn in a job of acting that's half as good as yours was.

[Gloria Dixon]

Thank you, Dick, and good night.

[Ronald Reagan]

Good night, Dick. Thanks, everyone.

[J.L. Warner]

Thank you, Dick. And next week, Gruen the Precision Watch will again be your host to Encore one of the most delightful romantic comedies of last year's screen successes, the rollicking the King and the Chorus Girl, which starred Joan Blondel and Ferdinand Gravet. With a splendid Warner Academy cast presented before another brilliant Hollywood audience, and with a distinguished guest producer. So it's goodbye until curtain time next week.

[Narrator]

We are pleased to announce that Dick Foram, starring in over the Wall, a gripping drama, a prison life, written by Warden Lewis D. Laws of Sing Sing Prison, may be seen this week at your local theater. And join us again next week in the Warner Academy Theater. Transcribed from Hollywood, a feature of the Transamerican Broadcasting.