Wednesday, December 19, 2018

"The Little Drummer Boy" premieres 1968



Another favorite classic,  The Little Drummer Boy aired for the first time December 19, 1968.  It is based on the song of the same name which was written in 1941 by Katherine Davis.  It was first recorded by the Von Trapp Singers but made popular by the Harry Simeone Chorale in 1958.

The story line of the television special follows Aaron, the little drummer boy, who is orphaned as a young child.  He flees into the desert with a few animal friends, hating humanity.  Aaron encounters the Magi on their way to see the Messiah.  Aaron goes to see him but his lamb is run over by a chariot.  The Magi say they cannot do anything for the lamb but the Christ-child might.  Having nothing to offer, Aaron plays his drum and the song is played.  The lamb is healed and Aaron's faith in humanity is restored.


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