ALL SCI-FI

[Gord Green]

I first saw Bob as SUPERMAN in 1966 when I took a bus to NYC to see IT'S A BIRD, IT'S A PLANE, IT'S SUPERMAN at the old Alvin Theatre. He was wonderful in the part, and he lived the part in his real life.

Here's what Wikipedia has to say:

Best known for playing Superman in the 1966 Broadway musical It's a Bird, It's a Plane, It's Superman! Historically, Holiday was the next "live-action" Superman after George Reeves. Holiday played Superman more than any other actor, having played the role in over 140 performances, as well as several live appearances in character.

From 1999 until his death in 2017, he reigned as the eldest surviving, live-action Superman.

Holiday had the title role in the 1966 musical. According to author Bruce Scivelli, "Holiday remained in his Superman costume after the matinees and invited the kids backstage for autographs. Towering over his young fans, the 6-foot-4-inch actor signed their programs and admonished them to drink their milk and be good." Despite excellent reviews and Tony nominations for co-stars Jack Cassidy, Michael O'Sullivan and Patricia Marand, the show closed after 129 performances.

In 1967 he reprised the role of Superman in two separate revivals. These revivals took place in open-air theatres, requiring Superman to fly with the help of a large crane. During the heyday of "It's a Bird It's a Plane It's Superman!" he appeared as Superman in ads for UniRoyal and Aqua Velva, and made personal appearances on "I've Got A Secret," "The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson", and at the Sixth International Fashion Show held at Macy's in New York City.

On March 23, 2013, Holiday attended the New York City Centre Encores! staged concert of the show and met with the cast.

After 40 years, he still enjoyed hearing from fans of the show. In 2003, he celebrated his time as Superman at the annual Metropolis Superman Celebration in Illinois.

Holiday died at his home in Hawley, Pennsylvania on January 27, 2017, aged 84

[Gord Green]

[Bud Brewster]

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I looked everywhere for a video of the Broadway play, but I struck out.

However, I did find a YouTube video of the soundtrack album (available from Amazon . . . for almost $300!), so you can play it on your computer while your surfing the web.

"Up, up . . . and hit play!"

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It's A Bird...It's A Plane...It's Superman - Original Broadway Cast


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Is there no man on Earth who has the wisdom and innocence of a child?
~ The Space Children (1958)

[Gord Green]