Hallmark Playhouse is an American old-time radio dramatic anthology series. It was broadcast on CBS from June 10, 1948 until February 1, 1953, and was described by one author as "a program that consistently produced the highest levels of production quality and value." Beginning on February 8, 1953, the program underwent changes of title, host, and format. It was broadcast as The Hallmark Hall of Fame until March 27, 1955, still on CBS.
Playhouse format
Hallmark Playhouse began as a summer replacement for Radio Reader's Digest, which Hallmark had also sponsored. Company officials decided to keep it for the fall of 1948 and drop its predecessor. An article in the trade publication Billboard reported that Hallmark executives preferred not to continue sharing product identification with Reader's Digest. The new show broadcast adaptations of works — some obscure and some well-known — from drama and literature.
Personnel
James Hilton was the host of Hallmark Playhouse. Hollywood stars often had leading roles in episodes. Among those starring were Ethel Barrymore, Ronald Colman, Joan Fontaine, Gregory Peck, and Jane Wyman. Frank Gast was the announcer. Lyn Murray provided the music. Dee Engelbach and Bill Gay were the producers. Writers included Jack Rubin and Jean Holloway.
