Judy Garland - A Couple of Swells - The Judy Garland Show

January 24, 1964:  Rehearsals and taping of "The Judy Garland Show," "Episode Twenty" titled "Judy Garland in Concert" at CBS Television City, Studio 43, Hollywood.  At 2 p.m. there was a rehearsal, followed by a dress rehearsal (which was taped) from 6 - 7 p.m. then the final taping from 9:30 p.m. to 11 p.m.  The show aired on February 9, 1964.

Judy's concert consisted of an "Overture" followed by her songs: "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot"/"He's Got The Whole World In His Hands"; "World Ware One Medley"; "That's Entertainment"; "Make Someone Happy"; "Liza"; "Happiness Is A Thing Called Joe"; "Lorna's Song"; "Rock-A-bye Your Baby"; "A Couple Of Swells"; and "America The Beautiful."

Just a few days prior to the taping, CBS allowed Judy to announced the cancellation of the series, stating that she needed to "give my children the time and attention they needed."  The real story, which was common knowledge, was that CBS was never really behind the show, tinkering with the format and putting it against "Bonanza."  Critics, fans, and other stars came to Judy's defense, with Lucille Ball stating "I was furious when Judy Garland was given lines like 'I'm a little old lady,' and someone talking about 'the next Judy Garland.' I bet she's glad her series if over. She's the best."

This concert format, while too late, was embraced by the critics and public alike.  "The New York Times" stated:  "After five months of trial and error in which the show has been subjected to various and ill-fated formulas, CBS is going to let Miss Garland do what she does best - sing..."