Hypercritical ??

I enjoyed this version. Before watching it, I realized that I brought my own well established reactions/vicarious relationships to Kelsey Grammer, Jason Alexander and Jesse Martin. It took some effort to NOT SEE their TV characters but it wasn't due to the actors keeping their TV personas. It was my baggage to deal with.

Was there too much singing? Yes. Could I always understand the lyrics? No. Did I like the major songs? Yes and I've already started singing some of them to myself.

Frankly, I really liked the scene with Jason Alexander as the Ghost of Christmas Past. I felt that visually and aurally it effectively presented the punishment for valuing things (wealth) over people (relationships). There were other scenes that effectively carried the message and moved the story on. My husband (who is not a fan of musicals but did watch much of it) was really impressed with Kelsey Grammer's portrayal of an old man. Best of all for me was watching Jesse Martin sing and dance. He was GREAT! Now my problem will be to watch Law and Order without expecting him to break into song.

I was looking for some enjoyment and this production gave me that. It wasn't the most authentic production, it wasn't the darkest or scariest production, but it was fun to watch and had some really singable songs. That worked for me.