Dicken's story has been retold dozens (if not hundreds) of times, and it's always interesting to see what is emphasized and what is left out. This version is one of the shorter (and therefore more suitable for small children). But the bare bones of the story have been fleshed out by a score that is so memorable and moving that I'm amazed Broadway hasn't taken notice.
It's also a seminal version of the story--many current animators have referenced this production. And that's a tribute to the power it has over anyone who saw it in childhood.
An added treat is the gorgeous singing voice of Jack Cassidy (known to fans of "Columbo" as one of the two "three-time" villains, and to fans of "The Partridge Family" as the father of David), and the presence of famed Disney (and Boris Badenov!) voice-actor Paul Frees, who contributes the voices of several characters.
It's also a seminal version of the story--many current animators have referenced this production. And that's a tribute to the power it has over anyone who saw it in childhood.
An added treat is the gorgeous singing voice of Jack Cassidy (known to fans of "Columbo" as one of the two "three-time" villains, and to fans of "The Partridge Family" as the father of David), and the presence of famed Disney (and Boris Badenov!) voice-actor Paul Frees, who contributes the voices of several characters.