Synopsis: In a misguided effort to improve the village of Hamelin and boost its prestige in the eyes the king, the mayor sentences all citizens, including children, to work on civic improvements. When a rat problem threatens to undermine his efforts, the mayor hires a traveling piper who claims he can charm rodents. But as the overworked local children meet the charismatic piper -- who delights them with his magical powers -- they too fall under his spell.