The Fir Tree

Hans Christian Andersen's rich narration transforms a tiny fir tree and an unhappy boy into a finely woven tale of happiness and sharing. In a world of joy and plenty, young Eric and the little fir tree are frustrated to be so small. The tree is so eager to be grown that it misses the beauty around it: warm sun, gentle breezes and the singing stream. For Eric and the fir tree, happiness will come when they are tall, until … one rapturous day Eric chooses the little fir to be his Christmas tree. Too soon the holiday passes. Eric keeps wishing he were big. The little tree finds itself dry and lonely in the attic. But all is not lost; our fir tree discovers its happiness in sharing its stories with the resident house mice. In a final act of giving, the little tree transmits its wisdom to Eric through a dream. Five actors who play Eric's household double as the sun, wind and trees of the fir tree's forest and frolic as rabbits and house mice. Jim Engelhardt's clever animation of nature and vivid dialogue reveal a marvelous collection of characters. Carol Weiss' original songs and exuberant score add luster to this Christmas gem!