Broadcast on the Dumont Television Network between 1949-1952, and almost forgotten by TV historians, what a wonderful early children's television show this was. For certain, no family killers or Columbine shooters were ever launched by the fare on this marvelous broadcast.
The host of the show was a cute and demure lady named, Pat Meikel, who looked somewhat like a schoolteacher. I'd love to know more about her, but there is little vintage television data on her or, surprisingly, her little gem of a show. The general concept of the show was so delightfully simple.
Miekle would skillfully draw in charcoal on an easel a character of her own invention (like the Good Witch Hazel, and the Spanish cavalier Juan Two Three), and then by uttering the same magic words each time - a-roo ba-roo, she'd summon them up. And through the early special effects available at the time, crude though they may have been by today's standards, they'd magically appear portrayed by real actors.
There were also many original teaching songs about morals, caring for the safety of others and racial prejudice which, unfortunately. I am longer able to remember the words to. But neither my much younger brother or me, both avid viewers of the show, ever forgot the impact of their meaning.
Where ever you are, Ms. Miekle, Bravo! You did a heck of a job and were the best and cleanest of inspirations for so many young minds of the time. Hopefully, we made you proud too.
The host of the show was a cute and demure lady named, Pat Meikel, who looked somewhat like a schoolteacher. I'd love to know more about her, but there is little vintage television data on her or, surprisingly, her little gem of a show. The general concept of the show was so delightfully simple.
Miekle would skillfully draw in charcoal on an easel a character of her own invention (like the Good Witch Hazel, and the Spanish cavalier Juan Two Three), and then by uttering the same magic words each time - a-roo ba-roo, she'd summon them up. And through the early special effects available at the time, crude though they may have been by today's standards, they'd magically appear portrayed by real actors.
There were also many original teaching songs about morals, caring for the safety of others and racial prejudice which, unfortunately. I am longer able to remember the words to. But neither my much younger brother or me, both avid viewers of the show, ever forgot the impact of their meaning.
Where ever you are, Ms. Miekle, Bravo! You did a heck of a job and were the best and cleanest of inspirations for so many young minds of the time. Hopefully, we made you proud too.