ABC Stage 67
Season 1, Episode 11
Aired: 7 Dec. 1966

I played the role of “Chuck Roast”; had one scene with Anthony Holland and Evelyn Russell (Joe Layton’s wife who I met while studying with acting teacher Mary Tarcai)

Cast Included :
Rick Nelson
Joanie Sommers
Donna Jean Young
Jimmy Coco
Anthony Holland
Evelyn Russell
Will McKenzie

n 1967, the ABC television network had an original programming idea: they presented a series of original dramas, variety shows, documentaries and musical productions under the collective umbrella entitled "Stage '67". "On the Flip Side" (aired December 7, 1966), was one of these presentations - an original rock musical, written by Robert Emmett, with songs by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, about a teen idol has-been portrayed by Rick Nelson.

An original soundtrack album was released by Decca Records. Rick played Carlos O'Connor, an American rock artist who - at 21 - finds himself a "has been" in the wake of "new" international artists like "The Hors D'Oeuvres" and "Heinrich and The West Berlin Nein". (This was an ironic role for Rick to play, since he was facing the same situation in real life - he was pretty much absent from the music charts in 1967 and much of the previous 4 years!) To save him from onrushing obscurity, divine intervention comes from inside The Pearly Gates - in the form of four young hipsters - headed by Angie (Joanie Sommers - "Johnny Get Angry").
The story revolves around Angie and the groups' efforts to help Carlos regain and retain his fame (which he succeeds in doing - while still "solo").

The original songs were pure Bacharach / David! The production also starred Donna Jean Young. Music was arranged and conducted by the great Peter Matz. The show was produced by Richard Lewine, and the entire production was staged by Joe Layton.

Original Cast recording on Decca Records DL 4836