Club Oasis (1957)

Overview

Club Oasis is a 24-episode half-hour comedy-variety show, set in a chic simulated nightclub, which appeared on NBC in the 1957–1958 television season. The series alternated with The Polly Bergen Show in the 9 p.m. EST time slot on Saturday evenings. Though several entertainers appeared as hosts on Club Oasis, the program became most closely associated toward the end of its short run with the bandleader Spike Jones, who became its permanent host, and his City Slickers. After their performances, the Club Oasis guests were interviewed by Hy Gardner. In the series premiere, Van Johnson acted as host, and the singers included Jo Stafford and the four Ames Brothers. In the second episode, Kay Starr sang "Wheel of Fortune", "When You're Smiling", "That's What the Good Book Says", and "Three Letters". On December 21, 1957, the program featured Fred Waring and the Pennsylvanians performing "Holiday", "Auld Lang Syne", "When Irish Eyes Are Smiling", and "Easter Parade", as well as some traditional carols. Other Club Oasis regulars were comedienne Joyce Jameson and midget comedian Billy Barty. Among the many well-known guest stars, some of whom made multiple appearances, were Andy Griffith, Joe Besser of The Three Stooges, Edie Adams, Jeannie Carson, Jimmy Durante, Eddie Fisher, Stan Freburg, Phil Harris, Peter Lawford, Gisele MacKenzie, Dean Martin, the Nelson Riddle Orchestra, Martha Raye, Jimmie Rodgers, and Frank Sinatra.