The beautiful, memorable music of Victor Herbert and the Mother Goose characters have made BABES IN TOYLAND a perennial theatre favorite since it opened in New York in 1903. But the book had a confusing storyline full of puns which children would not understand. That's why we asked Gene Jackson, one of America's most popular authors of plays for children's theatre, to rework the story and to update and clarify the lyrics for today's children. Although the play starts with a Christmas tree, it is not really a Christmas story; it is suitable for any season of the year. The author has written alternate lyrics for the opening song for a non-Christmas production. "Toyland, Toyland...Once you've crossed its borders you can never return again" can be yours in an expert rendition on a professionally made cassette tape as used for accompaniment by Theatre U. S. A. for audiences totalling 12,000 children at the University of South Alabama premier.

Traditional Mother Goose costumes are recommended. Perhaps the opening scene can look like an illustration in a nursery rhyme book. Special costumes are noted in the stage directions.

The story: Mother Goose Land is all astir over the rivalry between miserly, mean-hearted Uncle Barnaby and young, handsome, gentle Alan for the love of Mistress Mary Quite Contrary. Getting in the act are Jack and Jill, Little Bo Peep, and as many other Mother Goose characters as the director wants to use, along with Barnaby's clownish hit men, Roderigo and Gonzorgo. Trying to escape, Alan and Mary have to pass through the dangerous Spider's Forest. Even in Toyland they're not safe, and the fast action and beautiful music continue.

"It's become something of a local tradition that Casa Manaña's Christmas plays for children sell out for as many shows as cast members are physically capable of performing. This year's show, Babes in Toyland, is no exception...colorful sets and costumes, lots of action...fun to watch."—Fort Worth, Texas, Star-Telegram.

Also by Jackson: Rock 'n' Roll Santa

Other Jackson musical adaptations: Beauty and the Beast, Hunting of the Snark, Pinocchio, The Secret Garden, The Wizard of Oz (musical & non-musical), You're a Grand Old Flag

See also: Christmas Musicals, Plays with Animal Characters, Adaptations of the Classics