Benny Goodman and Peggy Lee

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In this excerpt from the 1943 movie musical “Stage Door Canteen,” clarinetist and band leader, Benny Goodman provides accompaniment to singer Peggy Lee.

Stage Door Canteen is a musical film produced by Sol Lesser Productions and distributed by United Artists. Directed by Frank Borzage the film features many cameo appearances by celebrities the majority of which was at a filmed concert. The film, made in 1943 celebrates the work of the “Stage Door Canteen”, created in New York City as a recreational center for both American and Allied servicemen on leave to socialize with, be entertained or served by theatrical celebrities. It was made under the auspices of The American Theatre Wing. Because the real Stage Door Canteen on 44th Street was too busy receiving servicemen could not be used for the filming it was recreated in both New York and at the RKO Radio Pictures studio in Culver City.

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