The Auntie Dee Show facts for kids
The Auntie Dee Show was a popular television program in the 1950s, broadcast from Detroit, Michigan. It was a special kind of show, focusing on young talent and hosted by the friendly and musical Dee Parker, known to her young fans as "Auntie Dee."
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Meet Auntie Dee
The host of the show, Dee Parker, had a long and interesting career in music before she became a TV star. She started singing with big bands in the 1940s.
From Singer to TV Star
Dee Parker first sang with Vaughn Monroe's orchestra from 1943 to 1944. During this time, she recorded songs like "One Too Often" and "When You Put On That Old Blue Suit Again." Back then, she used the name "Del Parker."
Later, she joined Jimmy Dorsey's band and changed her name to "Dee Parker." She recorded many songs with them for record companies like Decca Records and MGM Records. But her biggest fame came in the early 1950s when she became "Auntie Dee," a beloved TV host in Detroit. She also hosted a short-lived variety show called "Rehearsal Call" in 1949.
The Show: A Talent Showcase
"The Auntie Dee Show" was a special kind of talent show for children. It gave young performers a chance to show off their skills on television.
Fun Rewards for Performers
What did the young stars get for performing on the show? The prizes changed depending on who sponsored that episode. Sometimes, performers received a six-pack of Faygo Pop, a popular local soda. Other times, they might get a can of New Era potato chips!
Who Was on the Show?
Many talented young people appeared on "The Auntie Dee Show." For example, a 5-year-old named Mary Prevost performed. There was also Paul Schoenfield, who was 7 years old and already a composer and pianist. Another performer was 14-year-old Ursula Walker. The show also featured "Uncle Jimmy" (Stevenson), who was the piano player.
Life After Detroit
In 1956, Dee Parker moved to Los Angeles. She continued her television show there and often performed at local supper clubs. Dee Parker passed away in the year 2000.
