Include Us!

A commendable idea finds so-so execution in this sing-along featuring songs about and starring kids with developmental disabilities. Eight tunes, ranging over tried and true subjects such as marching in a parade, making music in the kitchen, watching a magician, listening to a lullaby, and driving to school, are very nicely produced (though not terribly creative in either the staging, music, or lyrics). What distinguishes this program from the run-of-the-mill sing-along, however, are the stars: children who are motorized-wheelchair bound or have Down's Syndrome or are visually-impaired...and want to be included in activities just like any kids. The positive message and winning cast of characters overcome such stilted verse-writing as "Everybody's different/Just like you and me/That girl is a she/That boy is a he..." Recommended, with reservations. Aud: K, E, P. (R. Pitman)