Perky blonde Angel Casey (born Lorraine Johnson) had co-hosted WBKB’s Hail the Champ – which had kids competing in athletic games and stunts such as races through an obstacle course – in 1952 and 1953 (with Howie Roberts) after appearing on radio soap operas and working on television with George Burns and Gracie Allen.
When she was offered The Play House, she accepted on one condition: She didn’t want “any stinking kiddie songs pushed down my throat”. Casey wanted to use classical music, and the station agreed to give her the final say on the music selection.
The Play House showcased music through songs and recordings. Angel also narrated stories and worked on projects for the “Things to do or make” segment of the show. And she served as a foil for a voiceless bookworm puppet named Sir Worthington Wiggle, who would whisper into Angel’s ear as she related the conversation to the viewers.
Another puppet – Squawky Duck – was created and manipulated by Bruce Newton (who also worked on Garfield Gooseand created and operated Bubbles the Porpoise on The Happy Pirates).
Angel Casey remained a local Chicago star and later acted as business manager and promoter for her husband, Chicago artist and architect Tristan Meinecke. She died in 2007.
You May Also Like
Flaxton Boys, The 1 9 6 9 - 1 9 7 3 (UK) 52 x 25 minute episodes Series 1…
When she was offered The Play House, she accepted on one condition: She didn’t want “any stinking kiddie songs pushed down my throat”. Casey wanted to use classical music, and the station agreed to give her the final say on the music selection.
