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Topic: Catalina Luau 1940 |
David Matzenik
From:
Cairns, on the Coral Sea
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Posted 12 Sep 2010 4:55 pm |
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With ten thousand SGF members I’m hoping someone can identify these musicians, especially the kama’aina playing the steel guitar. The photo was taken in the summer of 1940 and the caption identifies the dancer as Nadine McNulty. I would say by her candid pose and her hands that she had some hula training. The location is the Catalina Luau at Two Harbors on the Isthmus. Catalina in those days with the big Swing bands at the Casino, handsome steamers coming and going, and sailboats moored in the snug harbor is a mental image heavily tinged with nostalgia.
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Don't go in the water after lunch. You'll get a cramp and drown. - Mother. |
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Darrell Urbien
From:
Echo Park, California
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Posted 15 Sep 2010 1:04 pm
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Well, my LA Times database search only comes up with more info on the dancer, Nadine McNulty. She was almost Miss Los Angeles of 1940 (she was runner-up among 60 competitors). She was married to a teacher at Santa Monica City College, and for many years would take part in their functions as "fashion commentator". I can't find an obit, so if she's still alive she'd be in her 90s.
I might be able to tell you some of the guests at the luau, as there is a write up of it on the society pages. But other than a mention of Benny Goodman playing the Casino that week, no other listings of musicians. |
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David Matzenik
From:
Cairns, on the Coral Sea
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Posted 15 Sep 2010 1:36 pm
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Great research, thanks Darrell!
_________________
Don't go in the water after lunch. You'll get a cramp and drown. - Mother. |
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