Very strange LNOP. Extended, maudlin sendoff for a well-connected soloist retiring in her 40s, and then someone apparently thought it would be a good idea to turn a comedian loose on the organ between the national anthem and the song of fellowship. If memory serves, the latter used to begin without the orchestra. Or perhaps that's my memory cunningly suggesting the ideal.
On the other hand, a comedian being turned loose on the great instrument in-between the national anthem and the song of true fellowship is perhaps a true reflection of the times.