Acceptance of differences is the theme of this musical for young audiences. This is the story of Melvin, a refugee pelican who is seeking a new community to join. In the course of his quest, he encounters a fast-talking crab named Loquacious T. Crabb who befriends him, and a flock of pelicans who do not. Melvin is very different from the flock: He looks different, he talks differently, he fishes, swims and nests differently. Because of this, Melvin is ridiculed by the other pelicans and refused admittance to their flock. However, Melvin's generous action at the end of the play changes the flock's attitude toward him and he is accepted as a respected and valued member fo the community.