New Zoo Revue (1972–1977) User Reviews

Not Much I Can Add

[richard.fuller1 · 8/10 · 25 July 2009]

I remember this show.

I remember Doug and Emmy Jo and the singing and the fashions.

And I remember Charlie, Freddie and Henrietta.

I remember the faintest of plots such as a power failure and Charlie was stuck in his elevator.

Another one had Freddie mad at Henrietta and doug and Emmy were asking Freddie if henrietta ever did anything nice for him.

"Well, she did sit in the lake once to make the water rise so I could sail my sailboats." And another one apparently someone had put glue on Henrietta's stool and she was running around and dancing at the end with the tiny, tiny stool stuck to her dress.

I do recall it was heavy fashions, as others have noted, with mini skirts, moustaches and bell bottom pants.

Trying to get on the Sesame Street & Captain Kangaroo bandwagon? That would be my guess.

If the show was only around for one year, as compared to those decade shows, I would say they made it work.

Finding Understanding & Acceptance through Song, Dance & Rugged Individualism; with your Friend Doug and his Helper Emmy Jo! *

[redryan64 · 8/10 · 18 February 2009]

DEVELOPING an easy-sell type of TV Series for the young ones; which as a foundation has precepts of being entertaining yet educational, and has a plus that teaches proper manners, protocol and imparts an old-fashioned sense of right and wrong to its youthful viewers. In other words the work to implant a strong Moral Compass in the still underdeveloped minds of the pre-schoolers is a prime goal of the production team.

THE half-hour format usually revolved around the trouble that was currently a new, strange and insurmountable problem for one of the show's three anthropomorphic humanoid-animal characters. The animal child-like trio, consisting of Henrietta Hippo (Hazel Shermet), Charlie the Owl (Sharon Laird) and Freddie the Frog (Yanco Inone), who apparently served as the show's choreographer; judging by her background of other credits.**

ROUNDING out the regular cast were writer, creator and "your Friend, Doug" (Douglas Momary) and "his Helper, Emmy Jo" (Emily Peden. Woo, woo, woo, woo!). The two were and remain real life Husband & Wife.

WE see that two recurring characters that had recurring roles were portrayed by Jesse White (the original 'Maytag Man') and the ever popular Chuck Woolery, the perennial good-lookin' guy and game-show host.

AS previously mentioned, each installment involved a problem encountered by one of the three animal friends, followed by the eventual solution and understanding being achieved with the parentally wise and loving help of Doug & Helper Emmy Jo (Woo, woo, woo, woo, again!).

USUALLY the story of the problem and solution was told by the way of song & dance numbers. The dances were used were most basic and simple in nature and (at least to this writer) the songs were pretty much the same as the next. This was not necessarily a bad thing, for it surely made it easier on the uptake for the pre-schooler audience that they were playing to.

PLEASE, don't think that we are being too critical or harsh on Mr. Douglas Momary & his Helper, Miss Emily Peden (Woo, woo, woo, woo-for the last time, honest!). The NEW ZOO REVIEW was a favourite in our house hold; especially when Daddy was always vigilant in reminding the kids that it was coming on the TV; but not over Channel 11, WTTW, which is our PBS Affiliate here in Chicago.*** And that, Schultz, reminds us of another great attribute that NEW ZOO REVUE possessed.

PRODUCING and getting the series on the air was done by Mr. Momary's own company, without the funds that are provided by such sources as the Corporation for Public Broadcasting, the National Endowment for the Arts, National Endowment for the Humanities, nor from any contributors to local Public Broadcasting Stations, like you.****

OBVIOUSLY being an old-line, free enterprise entrepreneur; Doug and Emmy Jo (Woo,……) did it the old-fashioned way, they earned it! OUR hats off to you Douglas & Emmy Jo (Woo,….); for the rewards you reaped must surely extend even to this day; as NEW ZOO REVUE continues not only in local station re-runs, but also in video (VHS and DVD)!

NOTE: * Although the series was produced long before our age of Super-Political Correctness, this business of being MCP's was already very much with us! (That's 'Male Chauvinist Pig', Schultz!)

NOTE ** No Schultz, that's not John Lennon's 2nd wife. That's Yoko Ono.

NOTE *** Any fairness (be it in a 'Fairness Doctrine' or not) would require us to inform you the reader that Chicago has not one, but two (that's 2,count 'em folks), PBS affiliated stations. The other is WYCC, Channel 20, which is a service of the City Colleges of Chicago.

NOTE **** If it seems that we are down on the practice of funding PBS, National Public Radio (NPR for short) or any otherwise traditionally self supporting, free enterprise exponents. For example, a highly successful PBS show of long tenure is SESAME STREET: which has racked up untold million$ in royalties from Toys, Games and ventures such as SESAME STREET ON ICE and a multitude of licensed toys & stuff. And yet, they continue to receive underwriting from YOUR Tax Dollar$. Why?

POODLE SCHNITZ!!

* Henrietta Hippo on Dating Game an New Zoo Review series

[dweilermg-1 · 6/10 · 26 April 2023]

I remember when Henrietta Hippo was the bachelorette on the Dating Game. When she chose her date he was pleasantly surprised when she pulled off the mask and fat costume revealing the lovely blonde underneath. ☺ Back in that era before we had MTV we used to make our own music videos by turning off the television sound on certain programs while cranking up music we liked on our stereos. The New Zoo Review was indeed one such series which was fun to look at while listening to some great music of the era on our stereos. Some good rock music indeed made certain programs tolerable and The New Zoo Review was one of them. Watching Doug Momary strum his guitar and sing while hearing Led Zeppelin was fun! ☺

New Zoo Revue and oatmeal... how I started each day as a child.

[ann_outsider · 29 October 2004]

I just purchased the 6-DVD Season One of New Zoo Revue and I am thrilled! New Zoo Revue and oatmeal were how I started each day as a child. We weren't glued to the television the way kids are today, but we were allowed to watch NZR each morning before school. My parents dressed like Doug and Emmy Jo... shoot my dad even resembled Doug.

While I've read things all over the internet bashing NZR, I love it! Not just for the nostalgia, but for the positive, uplifting messages it gave me (and continues to give as it's still played in different markets across the USA). I learned how to be polite and a good friend. I learned about the seasons and how to think. I learned so much from NZR that has helped shape the person I am today.

I've already watched two of the six DVDs (containing 59 episodes). My two-year old nephew came into the room and stood there thrilled at the music and life-sized animals. I don't have a problem with him watching this show... unlike other shows with large talking/singing animals (Barney, HR PufNStuff, etc.).

I highly recommend this show for anyone who enjoyed it as a kid, missed it as a kid or who knows a kid.

An Owl, a Hippo, and the Frog!

[Sylviastel · 9/10 · 19 June 2008]

The cast and crew of this children's show was first rate in my opinion. In fact, I sometimes catch it occasionally. It was one of the funniest and best shows of that time. I remember watching it when I was a child. I loved Henrietta Hippo and Freddy the Frog and the smart Owl. They were joined by human counterparts like Emmy Jo and the guy and Fran Ryan as Ms. Goodbody. The show was never that much of a hit but among kids like myself who watched it years later. I always enjoyed the silly costumes, the seventies hair and make-up, costumes, and set design. It wasn't anything like it is today as it is with technology but the place was friendly and warm and a memorable part of my childhood.

Loved the show as a kid, as an adult songwriter I still love it!

[strlrdlsa · 10/10 · 11 March 2009]

As a kid my ear for singing in key and rhythm was not trained and I appreciated the musical and educational themes of the show because it was about everyday life but honed into experiences I could relate to not overly dramatic and heroic episodes of fantasy escapism. Nor was it overly dry educational silliness and warbling as in Seasame Street. Reviewing the show as an adult I see the weakness of the performances at times but the characters are like seeing old friends and I don't really mind much that they aren't professional level musicians. The energy and tone of the show is still one of the most wholesome of any that have ever been on TV. I'm trying to find out more about the music and songwriters and if it's possible to cover any of the songs for a modern release. Any knowledge to this end would be greatly appreciated if shared with me.

I was unable to find any trace of authorship for the music or lyrics on the show so I just transcribed two of the songs from Season 1, episodes Spring "Song of Life" and Time "Take the Time" which I think are beautiful songs and performed very well. It's probably no coincidence that they come toward the end of the season and toward the end of each episode. I suspect there was a little stage fright which will put a slight shrill in any performance that was slowly overcome as the show progressed. I don't think it's anything a normal child would object to as few children can sing in key without formal training and/or musical talent in their own households.

Most children will see the show as a fun way to make noise, dance around, have some silly laughs, and learn something new about themselves, others, and life consciously or subconsciously. I remember singing along and dancing around whenever there was a repeat on because I had already paid attention the first time and learned my lessons. For all you cynical adults out there who missed this show or still don't "get it", it'll do you good to watch the program even if it makes you uncomfortable in the beginning. The fun will grow on you, too! Please don't deprive future generations of this lovable show, despite it's flaws, by being closed-minded. Let the kids be kids and try being one again yourself once in awhile.

I remember this

[ThunderKing6 · 10/10 · 21 December 2020]

Haha, I remember watching New Z00 Revue.

IT was a goofy show yet, educational and entertaining.

The way they would interact would make me chuckle.

These old shows were brilliant, and you could see producers and actors had heart back then.

The greatest campiest kid show of the 70's

[mbrand20022002 · 5 April 2006]

I may as well get in on this New Zoo Review wagon and here are my thoughts of that show. I used to watch it when it aired on WUTV which is now Fox from Buffalo which may had aired on a Saturday afternoon and the first episode I saw was when Emmy Jo was stubborn for some reason I can't recall. In any case Emmy Jo was quite a lady back in her day and 30 some years later she may have Grey hairs right now. The New Zoo Review was a very interesting program that may had one of the most weirdest animal characters in TV history and the that winner goes out to Freddy the Frog. This Frog person in todays politically incorrect fad would be labeled retarded to today's kids but back in the day he was another animal character of a children's television that no one would judge on. He may have been the most focal character on the show besides Doug & Emmy Joe that had the most color personality on screen. I'm sure every child seem to like Freddy because he was the most fantasized favorite every kid like to be with. Besides Freddy's antics you got Charlie the Owl & Henrietta the hippo that also brought values and beliefs to the show which at times it need to be serious on various issues. It's also great to know that the show is now available on DVD which every parent may watch with their child to take you back to a different era when Children's programs were something to watch that made sense.

Wowee! It's Back, and on DVD, even!

[OKCRay · 23 January 2003]

Ah yes, who could forget Freddie the Frog, Charlie the Owl and Henrietta Hippo teaching wholesome values to us kids growing up in the 70s, with the help of their hippy-dippy human counterparts Doug and Emmy Jo! I actually saw an episode broadcast sometime over the Christmas holidays on a low-power Indiana tv station (picked up by AT&T Broadband cable for the Chicago area): it was the episode where Freddie broke Henrietta's window with a baseball and ate her special diet cookie (gasp!). They had a trial and everything! And let's not forget the musical numbers; Emmy Jo's singing voice was tinnier than I had remembered, but the 70s wardrobe (complete with go-go boots!) made up for that. Believe it or not, there are actually 3 or 4 DVDs now available of New Zoo Revue episodes; and if that isn't enough, do a search on eBay and you just might find (among other things), record albums, figurines and ViewMaster reels! Now all I'm waiting for is a NZR reference to pop up on "That 70's Show" (and if it does, I want credit for giving you guys that idea!!!)

Perspective

[xredgarnetx · 25 February 2006]

I grew up in the 1950s and 60s, and by the 70s was wearing hair down to my shoulders, a Fu Manchu mustache and smoking a bit of pot. I also wore shirts with very large collars and loud, wide ties that one could use for a lobster bib if one were so inclined. NEW ZOO REVUE understandably was nothing I was watching. At one point, I got rid of my TV and did not get another one until several months later. My first child was born in 1977, my last two in the late 80s. Suffice it to say I have caught up with NEW ZOO REVUE in fairly recent years. It runs every morning on a local channel. It is fascinating to watch in small doses. I am not sure what message it is delivering, but I doubt it has anything to do with drugs and everything to do with manners and behavior. It is not CAPTAIN KANGAROO or BARNEY or THE WIGGLES or even MR. ROGERS, but it is oddly fascinating -- in measured doses. Mainly because of Doug, I think. That hair! Those clothes! And the way they all clumsily dance around at the opening to that horrible theme song! And that frog! Has there ever been such a frog? It vaguely reminds me of a show from way back when that featured two pretty women (Carol and ?) who sat on swings and taught simple messages and occasionally sang in sweet harmony. Quiet lessons for the very young.

One of the Best 70s Kids Shows

[hfan77 · 21 April 2009]

I remember watching The New Zoo Revue in the early 70s and thought was one of the best kids shows of the 70s. The "three delightful animals" Henrietta Hippo, Charlie the Owl and Freddie the Frog had "fun learning what we don't know" with their human friends Doug and Emmy Jo.

Over the show's three year run, many subjects were covered including fear, hate, getting along and courage. One episode I remember the most was when Freddie wanted to quit school and Emmy Jo sang a song with a message for him to to stay in school. He learned that school was important for him.

The heart of the show was Doug Momary. He co-created the show with Barbara Atlas, portrayed Doug, wrote the scripts and all the songs used in every episode. He was also married to the actress who played Emmy Jo, Emily Peden.

In the second season, two human characters were added, Mr. Dingle, the store owner played by Chuck Woolery before being best known as a game show host and neighbor Ms. Goodbody, portrayed by veteran actress Fran Ryan. There were numerous celebrity appearances in the third season, including Jim Backus, Jesse White, Richard Dawson and Jo Anne Worley.

The New Zoo Revue was an entertaining show for children to learn about the world around them. It also told young viewers in several episodes "Don't sit around and cry." In other words "Be happy." La la la la la la la la la la la la la la. I'll close with a line from the unforgettable theme song "It's the New Zoo Revue, coming right at you."

It's the New Zoo Revue...coming right at you!

[FeverDog · 3 November 2002]

Like acid flashbacks, "New Zoo Revue" pops up frequently in velvet mornings after a long night on the town. Just this weekend I turned on the TV at 7 a.m. to find an oversize hippo, frog and owl cheerily sharing the screen alongside a human host with a disco lizard mustache, which led me to wonder: Do today's children actually watch this program?

I myself had never heard of this show until recently, but I cannot stop watching it when I come across it. Is it camp? Not quite, since the last time I watched the hostess was painfully struggling off-key to find the melody in the insipid ditty she was warbling. However, her horrendous rendition of an innocuous kiddie tune was offset by the eye-popping wardrobe both hosts were sporting. Oh my, the mile-wide collars, ugly plaids and oddly tapered trousers were mesmerizing in a fashion-wreck sort of way, but they weren't the worst sights to see in the wee hours. So maybe it is camp; after all, the similarly clad cast of CAN'T STOP THE MUSIC were the campiest camp of them all.

Other small pleasures could come from the random guest stars that sometimes join the cast. I swear that was Richard Dawson I saw in a chocolate brown suit alongside the above-mentioned proto-Barney creatures, and if that sight doesn't stir the drug-socked mind, I don't know what does.

Still, this program must seem as odd an entertainment choice to today's kids as "Pokémon" does to me. "New Zoo Revue" is endlessly watchable as a documentary of '70's conservative fashions, television production, and children's programming. And it's strangely fascinating how a television show can seem wholesome to a generation of kids that grew up to appreciate it ironically as adults who can now hone in on tenuous drug allusions throughout it (see also "Scooby-Doo").

Campy Fun!

[gluba2000 · 21 February 2005]

They show this up on a local station in Boston and I first saw it when I was 10 or 11 and that was a few years ago and I laughed my ass off!

It's this cheesy kids show from the 70s...the acting is fake, the camera angles are pathetic and the costumes are cheap as can be!

There was one episode and the owl got ticked off or something and wanted to leave and he fell out of a tree but I remember the chick screaming "CHARLIE!!!" but then reacting and waving her hands 20 seconds later and the frog was dancing around in a gazebo and his eyeballs were rolling around in the plastic thing that holds them to the costume (it looked like the frog was drunk!)

I suggest if you're crazy like me to buy the DVD and laugh your ass off!

I dunno if I were a parent that I'd let my kids watch this..it'd probably emotionally scar them for life!

Also look out for the hilarious "outtakes" on this website...the frog and the owl COME OUT and the owl and the frog get "intimate"...that is probably THE funniest thing I've ever seen in my life!

The measure of such a series that have subtle messages in its day

[raysond · 16 October 2003]

Ah yes,this was the joy and subtleness from a lost childhood. This show ran in syndication for three seasons(1972-1975),and it install good morals and values to us kids growing up in the funky decade of mile-high collars,plaids,out of control bell-bottoms,hot pants and go-go boots,yes this was the 70's in total control!!!

Who could forget characters like Freddie The Frog,Charlie The Owl,and

Henrietta Hippo teaching the 70's youngsters values and wholesome standards along with their human counterparts Doug and Emmy Jo! I got the chance to see one of the lost episodes from this series one early Sunday morning in the wee hours,let's say around 5:30 in the morning on some low-power station out of the Wilson,North Carolina area which was basically a shopping channel network that usually showed old TV shows lost forever in time. However,some of the episodes were very campy indeed especially in the musical numbers where the female hostess was so off-key,she had to lip synch her song,and most of the time the male counterparts was on some acid trip as well,the girl especially singing and dancing off-key,high as a kite,all in hot pants and go-go boots!

If you look at some of the episodes(which are now out on DVD)and look very closely there are some sublimited textural messages in each of them,especially one episode with the frog was acting very "queer" in front of the male actor,and if you noticed there were "homo" tendencies beyond that too. That was the episode that I saw that morning after a long night out at the club. Other small pleasures came from this show as well including one stint where Richard Dawson made a guest appearance and the one was with game show host Chuck Woolery!---you mean the game show host Chuck Woolery? yes,Chuck Woolery who join the show as well as Mister Dingle.

Did kids back then actually watch this program? Yes. The kids of today wouldn't understand it. I was one of those kids who grew up in the 1970's and watch a lot of The New Zoo Revue. A documentary of 70's conservative fashions,quality television production and an array of misunderstood children's programming that hone in on a lot of drug allusions throughout the course of its run----three seasons in syndication.