Handlung

When mounting debt and declining attendance threaten to close down Radio City Music Hall in 1978, a last ditch effort is made to save the legendary showcase after a revered Walt Disney producer is summoned for help. The end result is an extraordinary reversal of fortune that defies all expectations as his efforts give the fading landmark a triumphant comeback.—Anonymous

Since opening its doors in 1932, the majesty of Radio City Music Hall and its reputation for bringing spectacular entertainment to the masses earned it the nickname a 'palace for the people.' But by the late 1970's it was a palace in trouble. Faced with declining attendance and mounting debt, Radio City announced it was closing its doors permanently on April 12, 1978. Swift efforts from a citywide preservation campaign, however, had the Hall officially declared a New York City Landmark. Though safe from demolition, its future required a new master plan. The call for help was answered by revered producer and Walt Disney executive Robert Jani. A consummate showman fearless of scale, Jani is best known for one of Disney's most beloved attractions - The Main Street Electrical Parade. Jani left his Disney post to become President and CEO of the newly-formed Radio City Music Hall Productions and the events that followed defied expectations across the industry. The Hall was restored to its original condition in a record thirty-five days. Audiences were won over when Jani and company unleashed three major spectaculars during the 1979 comeback season, including the hugely-successful 'Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs:' the first ever adaptation of Disney animation to a live stage. Continuing the Hall's long standing holiday tradition, Jani also revamped its annual Christmas show that year into a full-scale spectacular that is still going strong thirty years later.—Michael Sanchez