by Hal Erickson
synopsis
In this first episode of a two-part story, Mel (Vic Tayback) agrees to finance a musical revue starring Alice (Linda Lavin). Dropping into the diner at this moment, guest star Joel Grey decides to help Alice out by starring in the revue--but first he must audition with a plaintive rendition of "Swanee". Trouble is, Mel has no idea who Joel Grey is, and thus hands the leading role to his own bookie Jimmy (Tom Williams)...and this will not be the last bonehead decision made by the stagestruck restauranteur.
