The Lawrence Welk Show Season 1 Episode 16 Christmas Show
- Not Rated
- December 19, 1958
The Lawrence Welk Show was a musical variety show that aired from 1955 to 1982. In the 16th episode of the first season, the focus was on a festive Christmas theme. Viewers were treated to a range of classic holiday songs, dance performances, and comedy skits, all performed by the talented cast of The Lawrence Welk Show.
The show opened with the classic Christmas song "We Need A Little Christmas" performed by the show's host Lawrence Welk and his Champagne Music Makers band. The upbeat tempo of the song set the tone for an evening of merriment and good cheer. The first dance performance of the night was a solo from dance troupe member, Barbara Boylan. She performed a graceful and elegant rendition of "O Holy Night," with the backdrop of a snowy winter scene.
Following Boylan's piece, Welk invited singers Jo Ann Castle and Dick Dale to perform a rendition of "Jingle Bell Rock." The two singers injected a playful energy into the song and had the audience tapping their toes along with the music.
Next up was a holiday-themed comedy skit featuring cast members Jim Roberts and Tanya Falan, known on the show as "Jim and Tanya Joe." The duo played a bickering husband and wife who tried to outdo each other with extravagant Christmas presents. Their humorous banter and playful one-upmanship had the audience laughing out loud.
The next musical number was a performance of "White Christmas" by the show's male quartet, The Lennon Sisters. The four sisters' close harmonies and sweet vocals were the perfect accompaniment to the classic holiday tune.
After a short commercial break, Welk introduced a dance performance from the talented Arthur Duncan. Duncan danced a tap number to "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer," showcasing his impressive footwork and rhythm. The energy and joy radiating from Duncan's performance had the audience on their feet, clapping and cheering.
Up next was a Christmas medley performed by accordion player Myron Floren. The medley included classic holiday tunes such as "Deck the Halls," "Silent Night," and "Joy to the World." Floren's lively and cheerful performance had the audience singing along and feeling the warmth of the holiday season.
The Lawrence Welk Show continued with a performance of "Toyland" by singer Gail Farrell. Farrell's clear and pure vocals perfectly captured the innocence and wonder of the holiday season and the magic of childhood.
Following Farrell's performance, the show showcased a dance number performed by the show's troupe, The Lennon Sisters, and The Sparklers. The group danced to a lively rendition of "Jingle Bells" in glittering, festive outfits that added to the holiday atmosphere.
The show closed with a sing-along finale of "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" led by Lawrence Welk and featuring all of the performers from the night's episode. The spirit of celebration and community was palpable as the audience sang along, bringing the episode to a close on a joyous note.
Overall, the Christmas episode of The Lawrence Welk Show was a delightful and heartwarming experience, showcasing the talents of the show's performers and capturing the spirit of the holiday season.