Mr. Broadway

In the mid-1960's, there were several television series set and shot on location in New York City including-Naked City, East Side/West Side, The Reporter, Trials Of O'Brian, and this one. Only Naked City lasted very long. Mr. Broadway looked like a can't-miss with the original idea, a series about the theater and show business, developed by Garson Kanin, produced by David Susskind, Craig Stevens, fairly fresh from his success in Peter Gunn in the title role, music by Dave Brubeck, and often the use of big name guest stars like Lauren Bacall. But miss it did, lasting only a season, as I recall. Too bad, as this was a well made, intelligently written series.

The series was not shown in the UK at the time, and as far as I know has never appeared here. I became aware of it only through Dave Brubeck's album, based on themes composed for the series, issued as "Jazz Impressions of New York". Although by no means well known, I consider it among the very best of the Brubeck Quartet's recordings (which perversely may explain why the CD, unlike most Brubeck albums, has long been unavailable!). Brubeck clearly found considerable inspiration in composing for the series. "Autumn in Washington Square", "Sixth Sense" and "Lonely Mr Broadway" are particularly appealing. If the rest of the production was as good I can understand the disappointment at the short life of the program(me).

I am a huge fan of Craig Stevens and I too thought that this series was well done. Mr. Stevens was not given enough credit for establishing the "cool dude" personna that a lot of other actors are recognized for. "Mr. Broadway" had a great location, theme music and guest stars. This was sophisticated television so I guess that's why this show did not appeal to the masses. Too bad. What a gem!!