Rusty And Friends In Getting Along

Technically, this is an outstanding program: camera work, lighting, sets, special effects, and sound quality are all excellent. However, the overall concept suffers from a lack of coherent story development, as puppets, children, and magician Shawn O'Toole try to put across the message "it's ok to be different." Kids will enjoy some of the skits, which feature un-Barneyized child actors doing song, dance, and drama. But without a clearly defined framework, this reviewer reached the end of the program asking himself "what profound and enlightening discovery was I supposed to have made?" The box says "An award winning cast and crew in association with leading psychologists and teachers brings this tale to children." What tale? The scripting bounces between psychologists, educators, and entertainers like a ball in a three way Ping-Pong game. Cameo inserts of one of Ed Sullivan's old standbys, Carl Ballantine, get a few laughs and add a nostalgic patina, but do little to put across the message. An optional purchase. Ages 6 and up. (E. Swanson)