The first and only Hanukkah DVD (that I know of) is an enjoyable way to introduce the Jewish holiday to younger children. Told through puppetry, skits, singing and dancing, the 30 minute video program also packs another hour and a half of audio with Hanukkah songs and also 6 Purim songs, all composed by Debbie Friedman. I'll be reviewing the video portion of the DVD only.

The program starts out with a puppet named KJ asking questions about Hanukkah to a small group of young adults and one small boy who are preparing for the holiday. They enthusiastically tell him in songs and dances about the holiday and its history, its traditions and its fun. They examine the symbolism surrounding the Menorah, its eight candles and tell the tale of the first Hanukkah. They also emphasize the fun with the dances, gifts and playing of games such as dreidel. Throughout the program, other production numbers featuring a number of children and adults who sing songs and tell folk tales are featured. The program is really geared for children, but some adults may also enjoy the lively music. Altogether, there are 7 songs and tales in the quick moving program. They include: Miracles Aren't Just Magic Antiochos Epiphanes The Dreidel Song Galya and the Goblin A Hanukkah Medley (in English and Hebrew) Light The Menorah I liked the fact that a multiethnic cast was chosen to perform the songs, as it drives home the diversity in the Jewish religion. The numbers are all well done, and the kids are cute for the most part. The small boy in the opening numbers could have been better, as he lacked real enthusiasm on camera. The other cast members make up for it though.

Picture-The fullscreen video production is colorful and was shot in a television studio. The quality of the video transfer to DVD is excellent. The lively dance numbers are captured well by the cameras in a variety of different camera angles. Sound-Dolby digital 2.0 stereo is all that is offered on the DVD. It is clean and full spectrum but sounds like a television show. Nothing special here. Other languages or subtitles would have made this an even more entertaining DVD for a larger audience.

As mentioned, the DVD includes an entire audio program of Hanukkah and Purim songs, which add value to the holiday disc. I haven't listened to them but the Hanukkah songs are repeats of the video program with a few extras.

It's refreshing to see this DVD introduced this year at the holiday season. Geared towards smaller children, the program is entertaining and fun, as well as educational in telling about the Jewish holiday that coincides with the Christmas season. High production values and a technically good DVD make this an unusual disc for your viewing and listening pleasure.