Moviehouse Productions “Lost Philly Films” explores the life and career of George “Bon Bon” Tunnell, outstanding South Philly singer and entertainer. Mr. Tunnell was popular in the eras spanning the Golden Age of 1920’s radio through the Swing and Big Band eras of the 1930’s – 1940’s. Courageous and tenacious, George Tunnell was one of the first African Americans to sing with a white band, Jan Savitt and His Top Hatters. Expertly leading us through our nostalgic musical journey is Mike Zirpolo, producer of the “Swing and Beyond” blog. Visit Mike’s informative site at: https://swingandbeyond.com/

South Philadelphia is world renowned for its rich cultural history including being the birthplace of many magnificent show business personalities. Courtesy of Moviehouse Productions and “5th and Ritner” Trolley Tours, stop by the homes and learn the stories of some of the greats, including Eddie Fisher, Joey Bishop, Marion Anderson and Mario Lanza. Expert tour commentary is provided by South Philly author Harry Martin Polis, David McKnight of the University of Pennsylvania and Bill Ronayne of the Mario Lanza Institute and Museum. The tour begins at the historic Broadway Theater, Broad Street and Snyder Avenue and concludes with memories of the Ideal “movie”, more commonly known as the “I-Dump”, 6th and Jackson Streets.

For Further Information:

Mario Lanza Institute and Museum:

Mario Lanza Institute

Marion Anderson Collection at the University of Pennsylvania:

https://www.library.upenn.edu/collections/special-notable/groups/marian-anderson-collection

Logan is a neighborhood in upper North Philadelphia. Infamous now for the “sinking homes” in its “triangle” section, Logan was once a vibrant and bustling predominantly Jewish community. Rita Rosen Poley shares her story about landmark “Rosen’s Famous Bakery” and other memories that made Logan a vital part of “Lost Philly”…

 

Before the  Pennsylvania Convention Center, Philadelphia had two great multi-purpose Convention Halls. One, at 34th St. below Spruce and two; a massive, all but forgotten building at Broad Street and Allegheny Avenue…

 

Join us for a trip through old Philly. Our destination is the Philadelphia Zoo. With a little help from his friends, meet “Massa”, the zoo’s most famous citizen and the lifespan record holder for a gorilla in captivity.