Parents coerced into purchasing this tape by their children (devoted fans of the ever-present Barney) will be relieved to know that nearly all the classic holiday songs are allowed to maintain their original lyrics and not rewritten, as is typical Barney. This made-for-video Christmas special follows the adventures of Barney, BJ, Baby Bop, and their kiddy friends on a journey to the North Pole. There in the frozen candyland they meet that bearded icon of happiness, Santa Claus. Barney's Night Before Christmas resembles a '70s variety show, featuring silly skits in which the characters frequently break into song. Producers are smart enough to engage older kid actors, which are a draw to the younger intended audience. The tape offers lessons in Christmas traditions--the spirit of giving, working together, and winter fun. Some tunes covered: the goofy "Jingle at the Window," "Winter's Wonderful," "Deck the Halls," "O Christmas Tree," "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," "Jolly Old St. Nicholas," "Jingle Bells," "Look Into Santa's Book," "12 Days of Christmas," and several instrumentals. --N.F. Mendoza
