Ed Sullivan: Toast of the Town, 1955
Ed Sullivan broadcast his show, “Toast of the Town” from the USS Wisconsin on May 22nd, 1955 while it was docked in New York Harbor. He performed with Peg Leg Bates, comedian “Fat Jack” E. Leonard, June Valli, and Burl Ives. In addition, the Arizona Boys Choir, comedian Richard Hearnes (known as “Mr. Pastry”), the Balladinis, the Marine Drill Team and the band of the USS Wisconsin.
Rehearsal before the Toast of the Town performance
Ed Sullivan and Captain Patrick (photo from Robert McLark EX Div 1995-1958)
(Photo from the ship's photographers)
The Ed Sullivan Show Dancers
Peg Leg Bates
Ballard singer Burl Ives
June Valli
Burl Ives
English comedian Richard Hearne
Ed Sullivan with the Ship's Crew (photo from B. Hancock)
June Valli and Ed Sullivan, 1955