Claymation Christmas Celebration

When I was younger,"Claymation Christmas Celebration" was aired on TV. We would watch it, but as time wore on, years, the station that once showed the show stopped. Recently my father order "Claymation Christmas Celebration" on DVD and we watched it the other night. At first I could not remember any of it. But I was amazed at what I saw. Today we have the special effects done on computer, but the claymation was very impressive. Each song was beautifully represented as was the picture that went with it. The DVD came with the Halloween and Easter Claymation shows and we could not stop laughing at all three show. The best is the announcers and the various guests that come by as they are trying to introduce the songs. But each piece is very well done. My favorite is most likely the Carol of the Bells. The California Raisins are very funny and entertaining, well the whole thing is.

I was lucky enough to have done all of the music for this production. It was one of the most fun and rewarding projects I have ever worked upon.

I am pleased to say that it was finally released on DVD. I am not thrilled to say that the audio quality of the DVD version is of very good quality. It sounds as if it was dubbed from an old mono soundtrack, and certainly does not hold up to even the original television dubs (and certainly not the original masters that I have).

But that said, I truly enjoy seeing the comments, and feel very gratified that so many continue to name this special as one of their favorites. As many of my family members (including my two daughters) sang parts on this project, it is especially fun to see and hear again.

There is talk of a 25th reunion of some of the cast, and perhaps even a concert of some of the music (including the record we did from this for Atlantic records). We'll see...

In any case- thanks again for the kind comments.

Patric J. Miller

This show is a national treasure. I cannot fathom why it has not been remastered and put to stream on a major service. The dvd version is pretty bad audio and video - but it scratches the itch. The songs are all arranged in innovative ways that reflect a nice spectrum of cultural baselines that keep the heart of the classics alive and beating. The range of effects that are explored through the claymation is mind-boggling - taken to wonderful abstract beauty in Joy to the World. Its so good and super fun. It really needs to be cleaned up and brought back to the younger generation who aren't going to connect with the VHS feel of the current version. Please someone elevate this back to it's rightful place in our world!

Finally a Christmas special that doesn't inspire a gag reflex. Well done animation and story that makes you just want to wassail. The camels really rock as do the California Raisins. Music is original with redone Christmas favorites. Find the kids and a big lump of clay and enjoy! (along with some waffles:)

This little show has been a constant in my life for nearly every Christmas.From when I was very young to my teenaged years, to now in my early twenties.

It's thoroughly enjoyable for everyone who doesn't despise the holidays. The humor isn't so simple that adults can't enjoy it, and its not over anyone's head. It always seems to get me in the mood even when I've had it with the season.

You can't really purchase it, and its not something they show on TV anymore, which is a shame, but if you can somehow find it I suggest you pick it up, for the kids, or just for you.