When you think of comedy teams of the Golden Age, it’s Smith and Dale that come to mind. Their many appearances on The Ed Sullivan Show were this generation’s connection to the bygone era of vaudeville. Smith and Dale performed the same classic routines over and over again and audiences never tired of them. Neil Simon’s “The Sunshine Boys” was based on their long career. When Charles Dale passed away, Michael stepped in to recreate the classic sketches with Joe Smith.

Michael has a unique niche in the world of show biz. Having been steeped in the traditions of old-time entertainment, Michael is the perfect choice to partner with legendary performers of the past. Because he knows their material and understands their rhythms and timing, Michael can step in and play straight man with the comedy greats of yesteryear.

In addition to being a wonderful burlesque comic in his own right, Joey Faye wrote some of the great comedy routines such as "Floogle Street" and "Niagara Falls" made famous by Abbott and Costello. When Joey performed live late in his career, Michael became his sketch partner, having learned Joey’s classic material.

Chuck McCann is well known as the host of a local kid’s show in the 1960’s and Michael was a fan when he was just a boy. Chuck also founded the Sons of the Desert, the Laurel & Hardy fan organization, and was one of the first to revive their characters for younger audiences. Imagine the thrill when Michael had the opportunity to play opposite Chuck in a recreation of a Laurel & Hardy scene, taking the Stan Laurel part once played by Dick Van Dyke.

The Doo Dah Parade in Ocean City, New Jersey always features a legendary performer as its Grand Marshall. And who better Than Michael Townsend Wright to work with these show business greats? When Mickey Rooney led the parade, Michael re-created the role of Judge Hardy from the old Andy Hardy films that starred Mickey as a boy. Of course Mickey Rooney is decades older than Michael, which added to the fun.

The character of José Jimenéz has to be one of the funniest and most lasting in all of show business history. Writer/comedian Bill Dana performed as José countless times on television since his introduction on Steve Allen’s show in 1959, as well as on several best-selling record albums that still hold up well today. Recently, Bill performed his timeless material on stage, with Michael taking the Steve Allen role as straight man. 

The character of José Jimenéz has to be one of the funniest and most lasting in all of show business history. Writer/comedian Bill Dana performed as José countless times on television since his introduction on Steve Allen’s show in 1959, as well as on several best-selling record albums that still hold up well today. Recently, Bill performed his timeless material on stage, with Michael taking the Steve Allen role as straight man. 

Okay, it's not the real Abbott & Costello. But it's a darn good substitute! Michael regularly performs with this duo, re-creating the best routines of this classic comedy team.