This annual live presentation of the opera is telecast in color on this series. Amahl, a disabled young peasant boy, tells his widowed mother that he's just seen a magnificent star in the sky. Soon, there's a knock at their door. Three kings on a long journey arrive at their door asking for a place to rest. They are carrying with them gifts to present to the Christ Child. Wanting to send a gift, but being very poor, Amahl has only his crutch to give.