Mr. I. Magination
A live CBS children's show hosted by Paul Tripp.
via Wikipedia: Mr. I. Magination · see source
A weekly live children's program, Mr. I. Magination was an early pioneer in American television. It aired on CBS from 1949 to 1952, originating from Manhattan’s Grand Central Terminal. The show debuted on May 29, 1949, and concluded on June 38, 1952. Host Paul Tripp, dressed as a train engineer, led a rotating group of child actors. Each episode, two children were chosen to inquire about a career or activity. Tripp would then play a “magic” slide flute, and the group would board a train to Imagination Land, where they met professionals related to the week’s topics. Guests included lion tamer Damu of Ringling Brothers Circus and test pilot Scott Crossfield. The program also featured early special effects, like the train appearing to enter a tunnel and emerge from its own smoke to reach Imagination Land.
Quick Facts
- Country
- United States
- Network
- CBS
- First aired
- 1949
- Last aired
- 1952
Facts from the source article.
Background
Each week, two child actors from a rotating group would ask Mr. I. Magination about a career or activity. After playing a "magic" slide flute, the whole group boarded a train and traveled to Imagination Land. There they met professionals like Damu, a lion tamer from Ringling Brothers Circus, or test pilot Scott Crossfield. The show used early special effects: the opening train ride appeared to go through a tunnel, emerging from the engine's smoke to enter Imagination Land. Yul Brynner served as director at times but did not perform. Other performers included Walter Matthau, Richard Boone, Joe Silver, Ted Tiller, and Simon Oakland. The show also appeared on RCA records, including Billy On A Bike and Mr. I. Magination Meets Rip Van Winkle, with at least two versions on LP.
More in 1950s American Children's Television Series
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