Peter Noone, who is the young British singer professionally known as Herman, will be playing Pinocchio this winter. The show will be a 90-minute special on the NBC network, scheduled to be aired on December 8 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.
      Art Carney was originally cast in the role of Gepetto, the lonely woodcarver and creator of Pinocchio. Carney had to withdraw from the production on doctor's orders because of a severe case of flu. Stepping in to replace Art is Burl Ives, actor and folk singer.
      Playing the role of the Blue Fairy in the children's classic will be Anita Gillette (pictured above). Currently Miss Gillette is starring in Woody Allen's comedy, "Don't Drink The Water."
      The Carlo Collodi 19th century children's story was adapted for TV by earnest Kinoy. Original music and lyrics were composed by Walter Marks.