WQLNPublicMedia
Houdini’s Mentor: The Magic Legend Before Him
- Title
- Houdini’s Mentor: The Magic Legend Before Him
- Runtime
- 3:15
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Step into the hidden world of magic history and discover the incredible friendship between Harry Houdini and Harry Kellar — two legendary magicians who helped shape the Golden Age of illusion.
From secret escape techniques to thousands of personal letters, this story reveals the mentorship, rivalry, and bond that connected the world’s most famous escape artist to the magician who came before him.
Learn how Kellar influenced Houdini’s career, the secrets they shared behind the scenes, and why their relationship became one of the most important partnerships in magic history.
If you love history, mystery, vintage entertainment, and untold stories, this is a fascinating look into the lives of two iconic performers whose influence still shapes magic today.
Subscribe for more hidden history, legendary figures, and untold stories from the past.
#harryhoudini #harrykellar #magichistory #houdini #magicianslife #escapear...
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- Meet The Musicians: Will Teegarden | Closet Classics
- Runtime
- 25:19
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Closet Classics presents the Meet The Musicians FINALE!
We’re closing out the series with Erie Philharmonic Principal Cellist Will Teegarden. Hear how his musical journey began—and experience an exclusive in-studio performance you won’t see anywhere else.
A huge thank you to the Erie Philharmonic for collaborating with us on this special series. Stay tuned… more musician features are on the way 👀
And thank you to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for supporting Closet Classics.
The door is always open!
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- Inspections, Violations, Consequences.
- Runtime
- 2:02
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
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- Opportunity Zones and CRIZ impact Erie’s economy
- Runtime
- 1:26
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
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- Rentals & Economic Development
- Runtime
- 1:39
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
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- Before Houdini, One Man Ruled the Stage | Harry Kellar | Full Documentary
- Runtime
- 58:49
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Kellar The Greatest American Magician
Born in Erie, Pennsylvania in 1849, Harry Kellar became the most famous magician in America during the golden age of magic. In this episode, we explore the incredible true story of how a runaway apprentice transformed into the Dean of American Magicians — performing grand illusions, spirit cabinets, levitation acts, and automaton displays that stunned audiences across five continents.
Discover how Harry Kellar:
Rose from poverty to international stardom
Toured Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond
Mastered some of the most daring stage illusions of the 19th century
Outlasted rivals and survived personal tragedy to reach the top
Handpicked Harry Houdini as his chosen successor
Helped transform magic into legitimate theatrical entertainment
Whether you're a fan of magic history, Victorian entertainment, or fascinating forgotten figures from American history, this episode b...
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- Meet The Musicians: Alex Hettinga | Closet Classics
- Runtime
- 21:03
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- 🎻 This week on Closet Classics — we’re back with Part 3 of our Meet The Musicians series!
Meet Alex Hettinga, a vital member of the Erie Philharmonic's First Violin section. He sits down with Brian Hannah to talk about life inside the orchestra—and treats us to a stunning Bach performance you won’t want to miss.
A big thank you to the Erie Philharmonic for sharing their incredible talent, and to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for supporting Closet Classics.
The door is always open.
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- MAYOR + COUNCIL: WORKING TOGETHER
- Runtime
- 1:42
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
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- Erie wants better
- Runtime
- 2:50
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
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- trash along our railroads
- Runtime
- 1:11
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
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- Code Enforcement, Rentals & Economic Development | Erie's housing
- Runtime
- 12:56
- Date posted
- 2 months ago
- Description
- Pull back the curtain on Erie's housing crisis, code enforcement process, and economic development strategy — all in plain language.
From shocking stories heard at community listening sessions, to a proposed overhaul of how the city inspects its 13,489 rental units, to tiny homes, opportunity zones, and small business loans — this is one of the most comprehensive looks at Erie's development agenda you'll find anywhere.
In this video you'll learn:
What code enforcement can and can't actually do — and what's changing
Why Erie is moving rental inspections in-house and what that means for tenants
How the city is dealing with railroad trash sites and private property limitations
What tiny homes could mean for Erie homeownership
How revolving loan funds, CRIZ Authority, and Opportunity Zones 2.0 support Erie businesses
#eriepa #ErieHousing #codeenforcement #ErieDevelopment #affordablehousing #ErieRentals #smallbusi...
- Title
- LITERACY FIRST. EVERYTHING ELSE FOLLOWS
- Runtime
- 1:19
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
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- Meet The Musicians: Gary Davis | Closet Classics
- Runtime
- 37:16
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Our Meet the Musicians series on Closet Classics continues this week with a leader from the Brass & Percussion section of your Erie Philharmonic — Gary Davis!
Join host Brian Hannah as he sits down with Gary to talk about life on stage and behind the scenes, plus enjoy a special trumpet performance you won’t want to miss.
A big thank you to the Erie Philharmonic for sharing their incredible musicians with us, and to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for sponsoring this episode of Closet Classics.
The door is always open!
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- How is the city's budget decided in Erie, PA?
- Runtime
- 1:42
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
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- What's inside Erie Public Schools' new strategic plan
- Runtime
- 1:38
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
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- Erie Public Schools: Literacy, Attendance & Strategic Plan
- Runtime
- 8:12
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- From tackling chronic absenteeism without defaulting to truancy, to a citywide summer literacy push happening right now in parks, libraries, and reading gardens — this is an honest, energizing look at what's working, what's being built, and how the city and schools are partnering like never before.
In this video you'll learn:
What's inside Erie Public Schools' new strategic plan
Why literacy is being treated as the foundation of everything
How the city and district are rethinking attendance and truancy
What summer programming looks like for Erie kids this year
How parents can get involved and become their child's first teacher
#eriepa #EriePublicSchools #ErieEducation #studentsuccess #literacymatters #summerlearning #ErieKids #backtoschool #ChronicAbsenteeism #ErieNews #CommunitySchools #publiceducation #MayorErie
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- Housing, Taxes & Financial Transparency | Erie’s Budget
- Runtime
- 10:12
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Mayor Daria Delvin sits down with Erie City Council President Dr. Tyler Titus to pull back the curtain on how the city's budget actually works — and what they're doing differently this year to make it more transparent, more equitable, and more responsive to the people funding it.
From the housing affordability crisis pushing longtime residents out of their own neighborhoods, to gaps in amusement tax enforcement, to the city's new partnership with Public Financial Management (PFM) — this is an honest, unfiltered look at where Erie stands financially and where it needs to go.
#eriepa #budget #localgovernment #ErieCity #housingcrisis #publictransparency #civicengagement #ErieNews #propertytaxes #urbanpolicy #citycouncil #communityfirst #MayorErie #fiscalresponsibility
- Title
- Meet The Musicians: Sarah Lee | Closet Classics
- Runtime
- 30:38
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Meet the Musicians of the Erie Philharmonic — Part 1
From the stage of the Warner Theatre to the studios here at WQLN, we’re introducing you to the world-class performers behind the music!
First up: Bassoonist Sarah Lee.
Hear about her musical journey to the Erie Phil and discover what makes the bassoon such a unique instrument.
Special thanks to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for sponsoring this episode of Closet Classics, and to the Erie Philharmonic for making these conversations possible!
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- This isn’t just a recap of the first 100 days. It’s a blueprint for our city
- Runtime
- 0:46
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
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- All May On Closet Classics | Meet The Musicians Of The Erie Philharmonic
- Runtime
- 0:20
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Preview of a new series on Closet Classics. This Friday we will introduce you to Bassoonist Sarah Lee. It's Part 1 of 4 -- you won't want to miss it!
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- How To Place A Bid During WQLN's Online Auction
- Runtime
- 2:32
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- May 7-16
Bidding starts at 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 7.
wqln.org/auction
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- What’s next for Erie? | The State of the City
- Runtime
- 0:43
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In this State of the City address, Mayor Devlin discusses modernizing local government technology to enhance accessibility and clarity for residents. We explore how processes like building permit applications and budgeting tips are being streamlined. This initiative aims to improve public services and resident interactions with city hall, reflecting a commitment to better decision making.
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- What’s Happening in Erie? State of the City 2026 | New Administration First 100 Days
- Runtime
- 40:14
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- In this State of the City address, Mayor Devlin reflects on her first 100 days as mayor and lays out how Erie is building momentum—not through quick fixes, but through coordination, transparency, and trust.
From housing reform and neighborhood investment to youth engagement, literacy, workforce development, and long-term financial planning, this address offers a clear look at how the city is shifting from siloed efforts to aligned action. Joined by leaders from Erie’s public schools, City Council, and economic development teams, the conversation goes deeper into what’s working, what’s challenging, and what comes next.
You’ll hear how Erie is addressing housing quality, rental registration, youth voice, business growth, Opportunity Zones, and budget transparency—while also modernizing city services and rebuilding trust inside City Hall.
This isn’t just a recap of the first 100 days. It’s a blueprint for how a city moves forward toge...
- Title
- Benjamin Britten's War Requiem Roundtable | Closet Classics
- Runtime
- 24:35
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- Ahead of the Erie Philharmonic's May 9 performance of Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem at the Warner Theatre, Closet Classics host Brian Hannah sits down with three guests who bring a deep understanding of this powerful work.
- Title
- This Week On Closet Classics | Britten's War Requiem Roundtable Discussion: FRIDAY at 9:00 a.m.
- Runtime
- 0:40
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- You're not going to want to miss a powerful conversation on Closet Classics.
Host Brian Hannah sits down with voices from the community to talk about the Erie Philharmonic's performance of Benjamin Britten’s War Requiem, coming to the Warner Theatre on May 9.
They explore how this monumental composition came to life—and why its message still resonates so strongly today.
Watch the full discussion this Friday at 9 a.m. on our social media channels and YouTube.
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- Pink Floyd. The Beatles. Black Sabbath | When Rock and Classical Collide on Closet Classics
- Runtime
- 1:40
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- What happens when two genres collide?
In this episode of Closet Classics, the elegance of classical meets the energy of rock—and the result might surprise you.
From powerful melodies to unexpected connections, it’s a musical mashup you won’t want to miss.
Special thanks to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for sponsoring this episode of Closet Classics.
The door is always open… come discover what’s inside.
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- Strange Musical Instruments | Closet Classics
- Runtime
- 5:48
- Date posted
- 3 months ago
- Description
- This week on Closet Classics, host Brian Hannah takes listeners on a fascinating journey through some of the most unusual instruments you might encounter on your musical path.
From the ethereal sounds of the glass harmonica to the bold tones of the buccina, these aren’t the everyday voices you expect to hear on a classical recording.
Thank you to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for sponsoring this episode.
The door is always open—come take a listen and discover something unexpected!
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- Star Wars. Game of Thrones. Apocalypse Now | The Biggest Orchestral Moments In Pop Culture
- Runtime
- 2:18
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- This week on Closet Classics!
From unforgettable film scores to sweeping symphonic sounds that shaped the soundtrack of our favorite moments, Closet Classics is opening the door to the grandest orchestral highlights in pop culture.
Join Brian Hannah on Classics with Brian Hannah on WQLN NPR — weekdays from 9 AM–1 PM on 91.3 FM.
A special thank you to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for sponsoring this week’s episode of Closet Classics.
The door is always open!
- Title
- The Squirrel Fam
- Runtime
- 6:42
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
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- Happy Easter From Closet Classics!
- Runtime
- 3:26
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Celebrate the season with music that feels like home!
On this week’s Closet Classics, Brian shares beautiful selections perfect for your Easter celebration—whether you’re hosting brunch, relaxing with family, or just soaking in the day.
📺 Watch the episode and let the music set the tone
📻 Tune in to WQLN Radio 91.3 FM, Monday–Friday, for Classics with Brian Hannah
Special thanks to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for sponsoring this episode.
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- Are We Too Fragmented for Pop Culture Now?
- Runtime
- 21:36
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- In this episode of Q-Talk, we dive into the pop culture moments that shaped us — bucket hats, boy bands, tattoos you maybe regret, and the music that defined entire eras. From the MTV generation to the Taylor Swift phenomenon, we talk about what makes something stick… and what fades away.
We also explore the bigger question: What actually makes something a pop culture icon? Is it relatability? Escapism? Personality? Timing? Or is it simply the moment in your life when it hits you?
Pop culture isn’t just entertainment. It shapes you — even if it’s just for a season. It influences how you dress, what you listen to, what you rebel against, and even who you become.
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- Lesser Known Concertos with Dave Hurwitz | Closet Classics
- Runtime
- 12:49
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Dave and Brian take things off the beaten path on this week's episode of Closet Classics.
It's all about their favorite lesser-known concertos!
Enjoy!
Closet Classics is sponsored by the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture.
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- This Week On Closet Classics | Dave Hurwitz Is Back!
- Runtime
- 1:04
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- Preview of Friday's episode of Closet Classics
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- Marcus Atkinson & Alex Staley on Mentorship, Media, and Growth
- Runtime
- 46:22
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- On this episode of NEXT 2.0, Marcus sits down with his engineer, 26-year-old Alex Staley, for a conversation that is years in the making. Marcus has mentored Alex since he was in the third grade through youth programs and media arts, and today, that relationship has come full circle in a powerful way. What began as guidance and encouragement in childhood has grown into a real-life example of what long-term mentorship can produce: trust, growth, talent, and purpose. This episode highlights the impact of investing in young people over time and shows what can happen when someone is given the support to develop into their full potential.
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- Unwind With This Episode Of Closet Classics | Must-Hear New-Age Music
- Runtime
- 4:59
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- The Sunday Scaries… do you get them?
That creeping feeling of dread about the week ahead? Yeah—we’ve all been there. But don’t worry… Brian’s got you.
Tune in to 91.3 FM this Sunday at 11:00 p.m. and let Dark Skies wash it all away with calming soundscapes designed to soothe your mind and reset your vibe. 🌙
This week, we’re counting down Brian’s Top 10 New-Age Artists you need to hear.
Big thanks to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for supporting this episode.
The door is always open!
- Title
- The PBS Kids Shows That Shaped Our Childhood
- Runtime
- 19:57
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- In this episode of QTalk, we dive deep into the PBS Kids shows that shaped our childhoods—and quietly influenced how we think, learn, and see the world today. From classics like Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood and Reading Rainbow, we revisit the programs that balanced comfort, curiosity, and education better than almost anything else on TV.
Like the video, subscribe for more conversations like this, and tell us: which PBS Kids show meant the most to you?
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- This Week On Closet Classics | Dark Skies
- Runtime
- 0:30
- Date posted
- 4 months ago
- Description
- A new episode of Closet Classics drops Friday morning.
This week… we’re slipping away into the Dark Skies...
Set your reminder and join us at 9 a.m. on YouTube and WQLN’s social media platforms.
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- This Leprechaun Looks Suspiciously Like Brian
- Runtime
- 1:47
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- 🍀 Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
We’re back in the music library for this week’s edition of Closet Classics. Brian shares a few great pieces of music to enjoy while you’re all decked out in green!
Catch Classics with Brian Hannah every Monday–Friday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on WQLN 91.3 FM.
A special thank you to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for sponsoring this episode of Closet Classics.
The door is always open!
- Title
- Saturday Night at the Movies: The Lady Vanishes (1938)
- Runtime
- 10:29
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Alfred Hitchcock’s classic thriller "The Lady Vanishes" follows a young woman traveling across Europe by train who befriends a charming elderly governess—only for the woman to mysteriously disappear without a trace. When no one else on board admits she ever existed, the search turns into a suspense-filled puzzle of deception, danger, and intrigue. Blending sharp wit with edge-of-your-seat tension, Alfred Hitchcock crafts a masterful tale of paranoia and conspiracy that keeps audiences guessing until the very end.
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- The Interview All Audiophiles Need To Hear | Reference Recordings
- Runtime
- 17:35
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- This week on Closet Classics, we’re celebrating a major milestone in the world of classical music.
Host Brian sits down with Marcia Martin, Executive Director of Reference Recordings, as the legendary label marks its 50th anniversary.
For five decades, Reference Recordings has set the gold standard for audiophile-quality classical recordings. Marcia shares stories from the label’s early days, reflects on how the recording industry has evolved, and talks about the artistry and innovation that have defined their sound for half a century.
Plus, Brian and Marcia explore what’s next — how technology, new artists, and a passion for excellence will shape the future of classical music recording.
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation celebrating 50 years of extraordinary sound.
Closet Classics is sponsored by the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture.
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- Did PBS Raise Us? | Sesame Street, Arthur & More
- Runtime
- 15:49
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Do you remember waking up early just to catch your favorite PBS Kids show before school? Or sitting a little too close to the TV while the theme song played? This episode of Q’talk is a full-on trip back to that feeling.We’re talking about the shows that raised us — the ones that taught us how to read, how to be kind, how to be curious, and maybe even how to handle big feelings. From Arthur and Sesame Street to Reading Rainbow and Mr.Rogers' Neighborhood, these weren’t just shows. They were part of our routine. Part of our families. Part of who we became.
There’s something special about PBS Kids. It wasn’t loud or flashy. It didn’t need to be. It felt safe. Thoughtful. Intentional. And now, seeing the next generation grow up with shows like Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood feels like watching that same heart carry forward.
If PBS Kids was part of your childhood, this episode will feel like coming home.
What was your go-to show? Let us kno...
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- This Week On Closet Classics: Inside The Studio — An Audiophile Interview
- Runtime
- 0:52
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Sneak peek of this week’s Closet Classics!
The interview every audiophile needs to hear: Brian sits down with Marcia Martin, Executive Director of Reference Recordings.
Don’t miss it — Friday at 9:00 a.m.!
- Title
- The JoAnn Falletta Interview
- Runtime
- 15:29
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- This week on Closet Classics, Brian Hannah is joined by the incomparable JoAnn Falletta, Music Director of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.
Be sure to tune in every Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. for Classics with Brian Hannah on 91.3 FM.
Thanks to the Mercyhurst Institute for Arts & Culture for sponsoring this episode of Closet Classics.
The door is always open!
- Title
- This Week On Closet Classics: JoAnn Falletta
- Runtime
- 0:43
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- One-On-One with JoAnn Falletta!
Here's a sneak peek at Friday's Closet Classics episode featuring the Music Director of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.
- Title
- Saturday Night at the movies: Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)
- Runtime
- 10:14
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Something’s not right with your neighbors… or your friends. "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" will make you doubt every familiar face. 👽
- Title
- Saturday Night at the Movies: Emma (1996)
- Runtime
- 10:43
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Based on Jane Austen’s beloved novel, "Emma" is full of humor, heart, and timeless romance. This charming romantic comedy stars Gwyneth Paltrow as the witty and well-meaning Emma Woodhouse, who loves matchmaking in her small English town.
- Title
- Saturday Night at the Movies: Mansfield Park (1999)
- Runtime
- 10:50
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- Love, class, and quiet rebellion intertwine in "Mansfield Park," where kindness becomes its own form of courage. This Jane Austen adaption is a timeless reminder that staying true to yourself can challenge even the strictest rules.
- Title
- Saturday Night at the Movies: A Star is Born (1937)
- Runtime
- 10:58
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- A dream, a love story, and the price of fame.
A young actress arrives in Hollywood with stars in her eyes, only to find her rise intertwined with the fall of a fading screen legend. As her fame grows and his demons take hold, she must choose between the spotlight and the man she loves.
🎬 Starring Janet Gaynor and Fredric March.
⭐ A Star Is Born — Join us Saturday Nights at 8:00 p.m. on WQLN PBS.
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- Saturday Night at the Movies: His Girl Friday (1940)
- Runtime
- 11:11
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- 🎬 Saturday Night at the Movies 🍿
Tonight at 8:00 it's His Girl Friday!
When hard-charging editor Walter Burns learns his ex-wife Hildy Johnson is engaged, he’ll stop at nothing to lure her back… with a big story about a convicted murderer on death row.
But when Hildy smells a scoop, her reporter instincts take over!
Don’t miss this classic comedy of love, deadlines, and chaos!
- Title
- Saturday Night at the Movies: McLintock! (1963)
- Runtime
- 10:53
- Date posted
- 5 months ago
- Description
- This week on Saturday Night at the Movies, we’re saddling up with a Western classic starring the legendary John Wayne!
McLintock!
Aging rancher George Washington “G.W.” McLintock is a self-made cattle baron with a big personality and an even bigger ranch. But running the largest spread in the territory isn’t easy when everyone wants a piece of it — from government officials and rival land interests to his own sons and neighboring Native American tribes.
As if that’s not enough, his estranged wife suddenly returns after two years away… and she’s not there to rekindle old flames. She wants custody of their daughter.
Full of sharp wit, larger-than-life characters, and classic John Wayne charm, McLintock! delivers action, humor, and heart on the frontier.
