I don't know if it's "traditional" for theatrical productions of THE SUNSHINE BOYS, but this one began with a filmed introduction, supposedly shot in 1972.  The host gives the history of Lewis & Clark, and shows clips from some of their movies--definitely shot for this, as the characters are played by Danny Roebuck and Jim Roope.  One of the clips is Abbott & Costello-flavored, and Roope does a >great< Lou Costello.  Another clip is more Three Stoogish; Roope does a >great< Curly Howard.  The Playbill and Willie's apartment are decorated with posters from some of the movies of The Sunshine Boys.  The posters are all modeled on Abbott & Costello posters, with Roebuck and Roope's faces replacing Bud's & Lou's.  Those on the set are in full color and almost the size of real one-sheets.  FLY BY NIGHT is a takeoff on the A&C GO TO MARS one-sheet; LIVIN' IN DA' NILE  resembles A&C MEET THE MUMMY; "Lewis & Clark Meet the Killer Bela Lugosi" is similar to lobby cards for the obvious A&C title, with a turbaned Lugosi on the left (probably from YOU'LL FIND OUT), and a Bela shot in the photo area.  Not sure what movie that comes from.  These creative added details amused me no end.

Last Edited By: Bill Warren Jan 16 11 2:24 PM. Edited 1 times.