Why “The Nutcracker” is Forever Spoiled for Me

Growing up, my sisters and I had an LP of Captain Kangaroo Introduces You to the Nutcracker Suite.

From Wikipedia:

A narrated adaptation of the Nutcracker Suite was released as “Captain Kangaroo (Bob Keeshan) Introduces You To The Nutcracker Suite”; it is believed that this was produced some time in the 1960s although a copyright date is not available. This work is remarkable for the lyrics that were created as an integral part of the narration.

It was a particular favorite of my sister Ruthie. We listened to it over and over. The lyrics became ingrained in my head. So it was with surprise that, as an adult, I learned that there were no words to The Nutcracker Suite. Captain Kangaroo and team had made up lyrics to tell the story. So now, whenever I hear the strains of one of the most popular holiday arrangements ever, I hear the lyrics from the Overture in my head:

He’s so handsome,
Funny and clever.
I will keep him,
Keep him forever.

Stop! Don’t you
Dare go near him
You will hurt him
Fred . . . for that
Nut you’ve got will
Never fit
Inside his head.

This is NOT a cherished holiday memory for me.

One Response to “Why “The Nutcracker” is Forever Spoiled for Me”

  1. Sydney Says:

    Dance if you’re feeling so down hearted, dance and you’ll feel good once you’ve started… you’ll ho, you’ll he, you’ll how with a yip and a yep as you step step step.

    Yes. Ruined, for me as well.