On September 30, 1960, a cartoon about a family living in the Stone Age aired on ABC-TV network — and in the process, became the first prime time animated comedy series in television history. On top of that — and against all odds — it was an instant hit, spawning a merchandising bonanza during its 166 episode run. This is the incredible story of The Flintstones and the lasting legacy of one of the most influential cartoons of all time.
Join New York Adventure Club for a retrospective and analysis on The Flintstones (1960-1966) — created by cartoon studio Hanna-Barbera over 60 years ago, this animated comedy series became a global sensation over its six-season run, best known for its lovable characters, outlandish situations, great music, and parodies of pop culture of the time.
Led by pop culture historian Arlen Schumer, this uplifting “visualecture” filled with stylized images, art, and provoking analysis will include:
- A discussion on how close Hanna-Barbera came to being sued over The Flintstones for plagiarism — by Jackie Gleason of The Honeymooners!
- What unexpected reason caused Mel Blanc to change the voice of Barney Rubble.
- A plethora of early concept sketches and rare visual clips.
- Why The Flintstones “jumped the shark” when Pebbles was born!
- The show's success in its "after-life," thanks in part to reruns in steady syndication and multiple spinoff programs from the Hanna-Barbera studio.
Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Arlen — any and all questions are welcomed and encouraged!
Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week.
See you there, virtually!
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***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week
****If the event has already passed, but it's been less than a week, you can still register for it on our website's active replay section!
About Arlen
Arlen Schumer, MFA is one of the foremost historians of comic book art, named by Comic Book Artist magazine in 1998 as "one of the more articulate and enthusiastic advocates of comic book art in America." His coffee table book, The Silver Age of Comic Book Art, won the Independent Publishers Book Award for best Popular Culture book.
Schumer is also one of comic book art’s most idiosyncratic practitioners, creating award-winning illustrations for the advertising and editorial markets.
“One of the country’s pre-eminent authorities on comics and culture.” —Jon Meyerson, Producer, ABC News’ 20/20
“Nobody speaks about comics with more authority, understanding and love than Arlen does. He is to comics what Pauline Kael was to movies.” —Clem Robins, letterer for DC and Marvel Comics
Testimonials
"I watched some "Flintstones" in reruns while growing up. However, Arlen presented great behind the scenes info such as some of the earliest depictions of Fred and Barney and how they evolved into the beloved characters we recognize today. I also liked how Arlen showed the "competition" between the "Flintstones" and "The Honeymooners" and incorporated the emergence of pop music with examples of Elvis and the Beatles." -Mark
"Very knowledgeable and entertaining." -Laurie
"Great presentation and collection of visuals! I like the enthusiasm of the presenter." -Sandra
"Learning interesting trivia facts about The Flintstones / The host is very entertaining as well as informative /Great Event!" -Karen
"I love the historical context, photos, videos and just overall passion, excitement." -Maggie
"Loved the treasure trove of information, clips, images etc. First time listening to Arlen - he's a wonderful speaker! Everything was just perfect." - Marlla
"GREAT info! Great speaker! Not boring at all! Loved it." -Lisa
"Very informative. Fun topic" -Tom
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Categories: Virtual, Art & Entertainment
