"Second Chorus"

We have a scene at the Wilshire Ebell Theatre, 4400 Wilshire Blvd., toward the end of "Second Chorus" (Paramount, 1940). Fred Astaire is in the spotlight at the left. He's coming onstage to take the baton from Artie Shaw for a number where he'll both dance and conduct. And pretend to play a trumpet. 

 

 

 

A shot off right before Fred goes onstage -- but not one done at the Ebell. Fred is calling the hotel to see where a fellow horn player is. But Burgess Meredith is fast asleep. He's been given some sleeping pills.  

 

 

 

Fred's number is well received by the crowd in the Ebell's balcony. 

 

Paulette Goddard offstage right with Artie Shaw. Again it's a shot not done at the Ebell. Paulette is working as Artie's secretary and booker. And she's the love interest for both Fred and Burgess. Also featured are Charles Butterworth, Frank Melton and Jimmy Conlin. H.C. Potter directed. The cinematography was by Theodor Sparkuhl.

See the page about the Wilshire Ebell Theatre on the Los Angeles Theatres site for a history of the building along with many photos. The Ebell is very much alive with a variety of bookings.  

On IMDb: "Second Chorus"