Fair Passenger
| Industry | Broadcasting, Television production |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1932 |
| Headquarters | Melbourne , Australia |
| Products | Television programs, including Fair Passenger |
Fair Passenger is a 1957 Australian television film that aired on ABC. It holds the distinction of being the first one-hour television drama produced in Melbourne, with a live broadcast on 17 July 1957.
Characterized as a "drama of mixed romances," the production was kinescoped for later transmission in Sydney, although it is unclear if this recording still exists. The version created for the UK audience is considered lost.
Plot
Erica Tranmore, dissatisfied with her marriage, travels to London under the guise of visiting a friend but actually intends to meet Clive, a young man who is enamored with her. While staying at Meg's apartment, she encounters Rosemary, an emerging film actress, and tries to obtain a screen test through Meg's employer. Rosemary develops feelings for Clive, whereas Erica's attempt at securing a screen test is unsuccessful, prompting her return home.
Cast
- Philip Stainton as Frank Clayton
- Nicolette Bernard as Meggie Craig
- Beverley Dunn
- Marcia Hart as Erica Tranmore
- Walter Brown
- Margaret Wolfit
Production
The television film was adapted from a play by Aimee Stuart and had previously been broadcast on Australian radio in 1951, 1952, and 1954. Additionally, it was produced for British television in 1955 as part of the anthology series London Playhouse.
At that time, ABC's Melbourne facility at Ripponlea did not have conventional television studio amenities. Consequently, filming occurred at a temporary studio located in Coppin Hall, Richmond. This provisional studio operated for six months starting 1 July while the Ripponlea studios were being built and hosted various productions including musical and variety programs.
This production marked Melbourne’s first hour-long television drama. Of particular note, Marcia Hart, part of the cast, had earlier appeared in Chicago’s inaugural hour-long TV drama with a staging of Gas Light.