Network: CBC Television Network
Broadcast Run: 1952 to 1959
Broadcast Medium: Television
After four very successful years on radio, this series became one of the first variety shows to appear on CBC Television. Sponsored by Canadian General Electric, C.G.E. Showtime( originally The CGE Show) featured the Leslie Bell Singers, and the Howard Cable Orchestra. The show starred Charles Jordan and Joyce Sullivan, and dancers Gladys Forrester and Jackie Kay.
Later, the Leslie Bell Singers were replaced by an eight-voice group led by Elmer Eisler, and the show then starred Shirley Harmer and Don Garrard (who was in turn replaced by Robert Goulet). Gloria Lambert later succeeded Shirley Harmer.
Don Gillies became the principal dancer in 1954, and choreographer in 1955-6, replaced later in 1956 by Fred Kelly, who featured Alan and Blanche Lund and the Don Gillies Trio from time to time.
The television series’ producers included Drew Crossan, Harvey Hart, Don Hudson and Len Casey.
The series debuted on September 8th 1952, and ran until June 1959. Beginning as The CGE Show, it was retitled CGE Showtime and eventually (after CGE’s sponsorship lapsed) just as Showtime.
Written by John Corcelli – April, 2002