It's been a busy month for all The High Chaparral folks, so catch up on what's happening at the ranch in this edition of the newsletter:
- Announcing The High Chaparral Reunion 2009 Schedule of Events and registration info!
- The latest Mark Slade Studio website updates
- Vintage Article Reprint on Linda Cristal
- Getting to Know You with Susan McCray schedule
- Don Collier's movie trailer for Jake's Corner
- Questions and Answers
- Guest Star Denny Miller announces new Wagon Train DVDs
- BarBara Luna magazine article
- Vincent Falcone appears in a video clip interview on Harry Sukman
- Photos, video clips, sound bites, and more!
Remember to watch for The High Chaparral 2009 Reunion News, and make plans to attend!
Q&A
Question:
There's so much talk about the Reunion - what exactly happens at one?
Answer:
Great question and you asked at exactly the right time, since the schedule of events was just announced for the 2009 Reunion.
The event is called a Reunion because it originated as a way to honor the cast and crew of The High Chaparral, and provide an event that allowed all of them to reconnect - a true Reunion of the actors, directors, producers, and crew. It also gave fans an opportunity to meet their heroes, hear behind the scenes stories, talk with other fans, and watch the show.
The 2009 The High Chaparral Reunion promises to be very special, since we're returning to the original ranch set at Old Tucson Studios. The Q&A with the cast and crew, which always yields wonderful stories, will without a doubt be incredible, at the actual High Chaparral ranch.
Read about past reunions and future plans at The High Chaparral Reunion Website. We're fortunate to have videos available from the 2005 reunion, so you can experience a tiny bit of what it's like to attend. The reality is much more fun - a bit like being on the ranch with the Cannons, Montoyas, and Bunkhouse Boys! Thank you to Ginny for taking and posting these videos for all to enjoy.
Bob Hoy (High Chaparral's Joe Butler) listens to Don Collier (HC foreman Sam Butler)
talk about the turkey from the episode For What We Are About To Receive, at the 2005 High Chaparral Reunion.
This video has been watched over 25,000 times on YouTube!
Rudy Ramos (Wind) at the 2005 High Chaparral Reunion, talking about the fine education
he received on the set - especially from the Bunkhouse Boys.
Question:
Would you be able to tell me if the ranch had a brand?? And if so, would you tell/show me what it was? I have not been able to locate it. I am looking on the website but have not found any information about it yet.
Cindi La Bash, 8/14/08
Answer:
Interesting how High Chaparral questions seem to run in themes, as this item came up in June as well, so branding must be on several fans minds.
The High Chaparral did have a brand, and it was seen in several episodes. Kent McCray, producer of the show, told me how the brand was made. You can read about that and see it in an episode clip in the Newsletter Archives.
The Montoya brand wasn't shown that I know of, although I've never specifically looked for it, but Manolito did wear a specific belt buckle that was very much like a brand - a big 'M' with an arrow through it.
Red Panel from the introduction
of each episode of The High Chaparral
Question:
At the beginning of each 45-min-episode you could see a red Indian standing on the top of a mountain, a wonderful picture.
Have you got that as a jpg.-file would be great, cheers.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen
Johann -Georg Gross
Answer:
The color plates that appear at the beginning of each episode were based on scenes from the original pilot. If you look closely you can identify the individual shots in the pilot. The Apache standing on the cliffs are in blue, while the ones riding horses are in red.
Although the original artwork from the show was destroyed, you can see copies of the opening color plates on The High Chaparral Website.
Question:
Can you tell me if the character of Annalee as the wife of John Cannon living for such a little time was always planned in the history of the ranch? Or were there last minute changes because of Linda Cristal, so she could be worked into the series?
Genaro Gil Vasquez
Answer:
Because of Linda's incredible talent and beauty, fans often ask this. I have a copy of an early version pilot script. In it Annalee dies in the first half, and John marries Victoria.
But our best source of information is Kent McCray, since he read the very first, original pilot script (read this archived newsleter story about the first time Kent heard about The High Chaparral) and so I went right to the best source. According to Kent, "Joan Caulfield (Annalee Cannon) was always to have been married to John Cannon when they first arrived at The High Chaparral and she was never set to star in the show - it was always written that she is killed in the pilot. And the entire script idea of Montoyas and Cannons was set up in the pilot script by Denne Petitclerc."
Susan McCray added, "Joan Caulfield was a lovely actress. All were very pleased that she would portray the role of Annalee in the pilot script. She knew, when she accepted the role, that if the show was picked up as a series by the network, she would not be around. The pilot was to be her character's 'swan song'."
Watch this video clip from The first half of The High Chaparral pilot, Destination Tucson, showing Joan Caulfield's last scene as Annalee Cannon. It also features Rudolfo Acosta as Vaquero. Alert fans will notice Annalee's windchimes in the background.
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Mark Slade Studio
The official Mark Slade Studio website now has a shopping section, which links to the Morgan Riccilli Slade website. Aficionados of Mark's work can purchase the Mystero 1 note card set of hand silk screened cards with envelopes, designed by Mark Slade.
The Fables Project, by Mark and his wife Melinda Riccilli Slade, has added a third fable, Mitsuko and the Wall.
Getting to Know You
with Susan McCray
Getting to Know You with Susan McCray continues to schedule famous and interesting people. Don't miss these upcoming interviews on KSAV.org, Tuesdays at 6:30 pm Pacific, 9:30 pm Eastern, with repeats on Thursdays at 3:30 pm Pacific and 6:30 pm Eastern.
Mark your calendar for special guest - academy award winning actor Ernest Borgnine on October 28th. Listen to the promo here.
- November 11, Mo Van, Author, Model, cancer survivor
- November 4, Bob Ralston, Musician, The Lawrence Welk Show
- October 28, Ernest Borgnine, Actor
- October 21, Ann Brenoff, Columnist for Los Angeles Times popular weekly column Hot Property.
- October 14, Marni Nixon, the voice of Hollywood.
- October 7, Brad Lemack, talent manager and entertainment publicist.
Susan says to all HC fans, " If you have any comments or questions about any of my shows or guests, please email me at susan@susanmccray.com and if you'd like to listen to any previously aired shows, please go to the Archives page at susanmccray.com."
Henry Darrow at the
2007 High Chaparral Reunion
The 2009 High Chaparral Reunion:
Destination Tucson
Planned Events
Every two years since 2003, fans and artist gather to celebrate the ground-breaking, highly acclaimed NBC Western The High Chaparral.Loyal fans, keeping the beloved characters alive in their hearts and minds for over 40 years, will once again host a reunion for cast, crew, guest stars, and production staff. This once-in-a-lifetime event provides a unique opportunity to meet the artists who brought the Cannons, Montoyas, and Bunkhouse Boys to life.
October 16, 17, 18, 2009
La Posada Hotel & Old Tucson Studios
Tucson, AZ, USA
3 Day Fee $225
Meet the people who made the show great – guests who plan to attend include Henry Darrow (Manolito Montoya), Don Collier (Sam Butler), Bob Hoy (Joe Butler), Ted Markland (Reno), Rudy Ramos (Wind), Neil Summers (Stuntman), Kent and Susan McCray (Producer and Casting), Bob Shelton (Creator of Old Tucson Studios), and many more!
Register today to secure your spot at this 42nd anniversary reunion! All three days are included in the 3-day reunion fee of $225. Optional items are not included in this cost and can be reserved separately.
Don Collier at the 2005 High Chaparral Reunion
The High Chaparral Reunion has a special reunion rate available at the La Posada Hotel in Tucson, AZ. Call (520) 887-4800 and ask for The High Chaparral rate: $69 for a standard room. A full American breakfast is included with your room. Check the accommodations and reserve now- rooms are limited so don’t delay.
You can also email La Posada at dhoyer@premierhotelsgroup.com - Danielle is our special HC contact and will be glad to take care of your reservation.
Schedule of Events
Friday, October 16
- Beginning at noon: Meet and Greet
Register and check in to the hospitality room, meet other fans, and create special memories. Pick up your welcome packet, registration materials, memorial program, and goody bag of special surprises.
Match well known names to faces, and keep an eye out for your favorite ranch hand.
Bob Hoy at the 2005 High Chaparral Reunion
- Memorabilia/Keepsake/Souvenir Auction with Celebrity Auctioneer
Fast paced bidding led by one of the HC stars! Compete against your fellow fans for a favorite souvenir, and then get your winning item autographed.
- Friday Evening Dinner
Join us for an exclusive, intimate dinner with the stars who made the show great. The optional Sponsor’s Dinner is an opportunity to thank the individuals and businesses who helped make the 2009 Reunion possible for everyone.
- Friday Evening Campfire
Night time around the campfire, cowboy coffee, songs, complete with stories – ghostly and otherwise – in the hospitality room.
Saturday, October 17
-
Morning: Destination Tucson, Old Tucson Studios
Stuntman performing a high fall at
The Mission at Old Tucson Studios
Destination Tucson: Old Tucson Studios with the Cast, Crew, Production Staff, and Guest Stars. You’ll have the opportunity to meet and talk with the talented individuals who made The High Chaparral great – at the actual location ranch set! The Question & Answer session will include backstage stories, reminiscing, and video clips from the show.
- Lunch at Old Tucson Studios will allow one-on-one time with your favorite star.
Old Tucson is the perfect photo opportunity, and we're planning for a professional photographer on hand if you opt for a posed photo on the ranch set. Or fire up your own camera and record this once-in-a lifetime event.
This is truly the highlight of the weekend!
- Saturday Evening Dinner
After a day at the ranch, we'll meet for an optional genuine Old West dinner.
- Saturday Evening: Episodes with cast and crew
The High Chaparral Marathon continues in the Hospitality Room, with more episodes, conversation, and stories from the cast and crew.
Fan Penny meets Bob Hoy and Henry Darrow
at the 2007 High Chaparral Reunion
Sunday, October 18
- Morning: Photo & Autograph Session
Fill up your goody bag with personally signed photos or other items from your favorite star at the Photo and Autograph Session in the Hospitality Room.
- Noon Lunch Buffet
Buffet lunch with fans, cast and crew, includes two entrees, salads, and desserts.
- Afternoon Tucson Tour
Don’t miss the rest of the incredible Arizona scenery on this optional Tucson Tour. See the San Xavier del Bac Mission, the location site for Hacienda Montoya. We’ll tour Saguaro National Park, and other points around the world famous, beautiful Tucson landscape, all from a comfortable and air-conditioned motor coach.
- Afternoon/Evening Cast and Crew Q&A
Watch favorite episodes picked by the cast and crew, hear their recollections of filming, with extended questions and answers after each episode.
Cost
- $225 for all 3 days
(not included - Sponsor's Dinner, Saturday night dinner, Sunday Tucson Tour)
- Optional event costs:
Sponsor's Dinner: $100
Saturday night dinner $35
Sunday Tucson Tour: $40
How to Register
- Don't miss this extraordinary event!
Register today at The High Chaparral Reunion website.
All registrations are non-refundable.
All guests and events are subject to change! Guests may cancel due to health, schedule or other reasons, and reunion plans may change or events may be added or substituted.
As always, comments or questions can be sent to info@highchaparralnewsletter.com
Jake's Corner Movie Premier
Jake's Corner, a film by Jeff Santo, premiered in the greater Phoenix area on September 5th. Don Collier has a role as the character Eight Seconds. You can see the movie trailer and music videos on the official website.
Vincent Falcone on Harry Sukman
Vincent Falcone's interview on Lunchtime With Ira, Live from the Las Vegas Hilton is available online. Vinnie speaks eloquently of his respect and friendship for Harry Sukman, composer of The High Chaparral music themes. Sukmans talent, history, and the art of scoring films and TV are discussed, as well as Falcone's CD of Sukman music, Warm Heart, Cool Hands, which was produced by Susan Sukman McCray.
Warm Heart, Cool Hands includes Vinnie's arrangement of Blue's Theme from The High Chaparral, and other great Sukman themes.
Denny Miller in A Way of Justice
Wagon Train DVD Sets
Feature Chaparral Guest Star Denny Miller
Denny Miller, who guest starred as Kolos in the episode A Way of Justice, is a well known character actor (see this archived newsletter article featuring him) and a favorite of many High Chaparral fans. He’s well known for his featured recurring role in the classic western TV series Wagon Train.
Wagon Train Cast, including Denny Miller
Western TV fans can now purchase a newly released boxed set of 3 Wagon Train disks, with 12 total episodes, personally autographed by Denny. Each DVD features John McIntyre, as the Wagon Master, with Denny "Scott" Miller, Terry Wilson and Frank McGrath in recurring roles. Guest stars include Brian Keith, Bobby Darin, Jane Wyatt, Leonard Nemoy, Dennis Hopper and many other Hollywood greats. The DVDs are transferred from original film prints, providing high quality picture and sound reproduction, full screen presentation, interactive menus and episode selection.
On November 4th the Wagon Train Color Collection set of 16 DVDs with 32 ninety minute episodes will be available. This special set includes recent interviews with Denny Miller and Robert Fuller.
Email your order (including name, address, city, state, and zip), and visit the official Denny Miller website.
This video clip from A Way of Justice features Denny Miller as Kolos, and Cameron Mitchell as Buck Cannon.
BarBara Luna
Daeida Magazine Article
Guest Star BarBara Luna is featured in a Daeida Magazine interview, along with a gallery of photos.
Check out the online synopsis, where the author describes Barbara as "a bad girl in a good way"!
Diamonds are a girl's best friend...but not always.
For example, diamonds are not a girls best friend if the girl (such as Linda Cristal of NBC's The High Chaparral) happens to have an extensive collection of American Indian jewelry at a time (such as right now) when American Indian artifacts are skyrocketing in value and popularity. Linda bought her first piece several years ago, when the pilot for Chaparral was being filmed near Tucson. Since then she has built up a wide array of Navaho and Zuni jwewlry, which she models here. Her bracelets and necklaces, all hand-made (of silver and coral), left: silver and turquosie, at right), go well with her fresh and feminine Mexican dresses. Collections, of course, tend to expand, and Linda's now includes the pre-Columbian figures and necklaces seen below. Linda's collection, worth $5000 today, is steadily increasing in value, but she keeps it for decorative rather than financial purposes. And decorate is someting that it does extremely well.
Vintage TV Guide article on Linda Cristal
Thank you to HC fan and newsletter reader
Sandy Oster for generously sharing this vintage TV Guide article.
Sandy also sent scans from Linda's appearance on Hollywood Squares, as well as a favorite book many will remember.
Thanks Sandy!
Do you have a favorite piece of memorabilia, or an article you'd like to share with other fans? Send it to info@highchaparralnewsletter.com, and we'll do our best to add it to a future newsletter.
