By:Karen Bloom
When the film was previewed, it reportedly ran for almost three hours and contained at least two songs that were cut before its general release. Stories about those two clips have been circulating for years, but to the dismay of Jolson fans, have been unattainable, until now.At long last, the the International Al Jolson Society has recovered one those scenes, which it premieres at next weekend's festival. That film clip shows Al Jolson, as played by Parks, singing the Yiddish song, "A Cantor on the Sabbath." It was reportedly cut from the movie because it was considered to be too "ethnic" at the time. Jolson's fans can judge for themselves, as well as explore other aspects of his life, at the day-long event. Memories and reminiscences of the entertainer's more than 50 years in show business is expected to attract folks from throughout the tri-state area and beyond.One of the highlights of the day comes from vocalist Tony Babino, a festival favorite, who presents his Jolson revue, "The Heart of Al Jolson." The Brooklyn native includes Jolson as one of his musical idols and has built a major part of his career around the Jolson material."His impersonation is uncanny," said Hernstat. Babino performs such Jolson standards as "Mammy," "California Here I Come," "Avalon," "You Made Me Love You,", "Swanee," "Caroline In The Morning," and "Sonny Boy," during his 90-minute show. The day opens with a panel discussion by Janet Cantor Gari, daughter of Jolson pal Eddie Cantor, Cantor's grandson Brian Gari, Joe Franklin, and Richard Halpern, who reflect on Jolson's life and career. An auction of Jolson memorabilia follows, including such items as records, CDs, sheet music, and videos. "Part of being a Jolson fan is being a collector," Hernstat noted. "Everybody has something they want to show off or to something they want to obtain." Tony Babino offers his Al Jolson interpretation after the lunch buffet. Then it is time for this year's main event: the screening of that lost scene. "It is a true delight for movie lovers," according to the Jolson Society.
"A Tribute To Al Jolson"
The International Al Jolson Society's 2004 Long Island Jolson Festival,
Saturday, Nov. 13, 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Knights of Columbus, 2985 Kenneth Pl., Oceanside. Tickets are $37.50 per person, including meals and entertainment. Show tickets only are $20. Performance begins at 1:30 p.m. For more information, call Jan Hernstat, International Al Jolson Society, at (516) 678-3524.
