Maybe because the lyrics say “that’s my cigar! -you’ll get another” (or something like that.) And it made sense to keep it out of respect to the lyrics and original intent, and it adds flavor to the character, given the time period in which the show takes place.
The show was created for theatre, not Disney plus. When it was time to add the filmed version to Disney plus, it probably didn’t seem like a deal breaker. I also don’t recall the dancer smoking, he’s just chewing a cigar prop.
Honestly, Disney theatrical had far more bizarre choices when it comes to “adult themes” in their shows. The suggested nudity in Mary Poppins and Frozen is far more cringey than a cigar-chomping newsboy. |
