Having seen this episode when it first aired and many time since then, it never fails to entertain. This is the only Christmas episode of "The Dick Van Dyke Show." Mel comes to the writing staff and tells them that Alan Brady has rejected the script they have written because many critics state that what his Christmas shows lack is heart. He'll have his staff, who entertain at many of his social functions, be the headliners of the show. Bill Persky and Sam Denoff wrote the script for this show, including three of the songs: "Anthem for Alan Brady," "Santa, Send A Fella," and "I Have Everything But You." The regular cast perform the songs, including Richard Deacon and Larry Matthews sings "Little Drummer Boy." All are very good.
One review, however, is lacking in this Christmas spirit writing "it also is a big singing and dancing extravaganza...which are the sorts of episodes I really, really hate. . .It's like a child who is excited for Christmas but when they open up their presents, it's all underwear!" Some impoverished children would be thrilled to get anything for Christmas, even if it is underwear.
One review, however, is lacking in this Christmas spirit writing "it also is a big singing and dancing extravaganza...which are the sorts of episodes I really, really hate. . .It's like a child who is excited for Christmas but when they open up their presents, it's all underwear!" Some impoverished children would be thrilled to get anything for Christmas, even if it is underwear.