Classic Films Under the Stars

Lively ’60s Musical Spoofs the Cult of Celebrity

Paul Lynde singing “What’s the matter with kids today?” is as timely in 2024 as it was sixty years ago in Bye Bye Birdie, as the cult of celebrity becomes even more deeply ingrained within American pop culture. Based upon the 1960 Tony Award-winning musical, it also features familiar songs “Put on a Happy Face” and “A Lot of Livin’ to Do.”

Shot in saturated Technicolor that rivals the look of last year’s Barbie, the film elevated Ann-Margret’s career to superstar status – she would next appear opposite Elvis Presley in Viva Las Vegas. The film also stars Janet Leigh and Dick Van Dyke [his screen debut], with Bobby Rydell and Jesse Pearson as Conrad Birdie – and of course Ed Sullivan.

Bye Bye Birdie concludes our series of screenings under the stars, presented on the expansive lawn of the historic Doctors House in Brand Park. Admission is free. Gates will open at 5:30 to allow time for picnicking and socializing before the program begins at 7:00 PM. Please bring blankets, lawn or beach chairs for seating, and plenty of water or soft drinks.

The series is a presentation of Alex Film Society, The Glendale Historical Society, the Northwest Glendale Homeowners Association, Brand Associates and G&C Properties, with generous support provided by the City of Glendale’s Community Services & Parks.

Archivist Marc Wanamaker Speaks Before Crime Wave

Directions to Brand Park and The Doctors’ House

In Northwest Glendale, follow Grandview Ave. up the hill and into the park. Grandview can be accessed from San Fernando Rd., W. Glenoaks Blvd. and Kenneth Rd. Once in the park, follow the signs to the Doctors House or Brand Motorway. Note that vehicular access ends at the red barrier shown on the map below.