Progress Bulletin from Pomona, California • Page 101

THE DOODLETOWN PIPERS If the barometer of success for a singing group must be synonymous with gold records and a consistent niche on the music charts, then by that criterion the Doodletown Pipers is a flop but probably the only flop group around grossed over a half million dollars a year for the past three years. Despite the fact never had a hit single or album, the Pipers are hardly in the unemployment lines. Following an 18- week engagement at the Frontier Hotel in Las Vegas, the group now packing for a host of fair appearances across the nation. THi DOOOIITOWN AIM RS Television-wise, the 16-member singing group had their work cut out for them in January with the signing of an agreement for six Doodletown Piper specials for 69. I heir most recent effort of the sextet will air Tuesday at 9 PM on Channel 5.

In 1970, the group is slated for even more TV exposure via 13 specials for Triangle Stations, and also been some discussion concerning a Doodletown Pipers series. The birthright belongs to Ward Ellis and George Wilkins, responsible for choreography and musical arranging. They saw the need for a good visual act that had a contemporary sound, so they experimented, and at one time had a whopping 45 members in the group. Even now with the composition down to eight guys and eight gals, the $10,000 to $15,000 a night the group receives goes largely to cover expenses. Red Skelton gave the group their first video break in which prompted Henry Mancini.

Eddie Fisher, Phil Harris and Nancy Wilson to welcome the Pipers to appear on the bill with them. In addition to an Ed Sullivan Show guesting, the group was the summer replacement for the Smothers Brothers. Ward wife, Polly, has the role of for the energetic group. there to arrange hotel reservations, plane tickets, payroll, bookkeeping and act as mother confessor. Many of the Pipers are right out of high school and have never been away from home before.

Polly gives them a shoulder to cry on or stands in the wings when they need an extra boost of confidence. The group auditions for singers to add to its ranks in the various cities where they perform. This is almost a necessity since various members of the talented group are periodically snatched away to pursue acting and singing careers on their own. Although Ellis prefers members to remain with the group for at least two years, they are usually signed for a year, with six months intensive training. Most of the Pipers were initiated into the company on the merits of their vocal talents alone professional experience was not a pre-requisite, although several members did have some Broadway training.

What members did have in common was a yen for show business. and they agree that being with the Pipers has provided a good testing environment. They're learning the ropes of show business without as many of the rocky roads take to start out as a solo performer. Naturally, the fact that the Doodletown Pipers is a success was no accident. Behind the 16 Doodletown Pipers is a lot of work even though their performances make it appear to be fun.

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