Season 1
Although traditions at Christmas have changed over the years we still strive to retain the season’s warmth by spending time with family and friends. John Doan reminds us here in these programs of what our history was by bringing it back to life with stories and songs of the season. You just might find yourself laughing, singing, and cherishing those you love as you enjoy these holiday specials. This DVD contains both Oregon Public Broadcasting programs “A Christmas to Remember with John Doan” and “A Victorian Christmas with John Doan.”
01. A Christmas To Remember With John Doan
This Oregon Public Broadcasting (1991) teleplay classic has become a favorite among John’s many fans. It is a musical and dramatic television special acting out how a family rediscovered the meaning of the season. John plays the part of a magical recluse living near Mount Hood in Oregon. His cabin is full of instruments hanging from the walls. A family is in the midst of fighting while driving in the car to a company Christmas Party. The car brakes down in the snow on a remote road in front of John’s cabin so they seek warmth and use of a phone but receive much more from their brief visit. The program features performances on old instruments by John and the entire cast.
02. A Victorian Christmas With John Doan
This Oregon Public Broadcasting production (1993) earned an Emmy Award Nomination for” Best Entertainment Special of the Year.” It features John Doan on numerous instruments with dialogue, humor, and special guests. John tells of a time a century ago when people actually entertained themselves and each other and demonstrates what it was like by leading sing-alongs, playing dozens of authentic yet forgotten instruments, all the while sharing our history in a way that is both fun and thought provoking for the audience.