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Charles M. Schulz’s beloved characters come to life in Children’s Theatre of Charlotte’s production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.”
This show is made up of a series of vignettes that put well-known “Peanuts” characters in scenarios that one would expect to find them in – from the gang’s attempt to win a baseball game to Lucy’s pursuit of a “Queendom.” One also can expect nods to classic “Peanuts” lines (among them is Charlie Brown’s classic “Arrggghh!”).
Ashby Blakely plays Charlie Brown, who faces various challenges that range from something as simple as trying to fly a kite to the more difficult task of earning the attention of The Little Red-Haired Girl. Blakely captured that dry yet innocent essence of Charlie Brown and had the audience laughing with lines as simple as, “Why can’t you eat your food like a normal dog, Snoopy?”
Devin Nystrom’s portrayal of Charlie Brown’s adorable, blanket-loving friend, Linus, was sweet and charming. Marc Bastos gave an impressive performance of Charlie Brown’s dog, Snoopy. Bastos had the most physically demanding role, but his hard work showed as he brought the audience to their feet during the number “Suppertime.”
But it was Cassandra Howley Wood who stole the spotlight. Her performance as Charlie Brown’s little sister, Sally, brought tears of laughter to the audience’s eyes.
The show’s scenic design is apparent before the show begins. The cartoonish backdrops and set pieces coupled with costumes that match the cartoon character’s classic outfits make it feel as if the “Peanuts” gang have jumped out of the comic strip and onto the stage.
The lighting design is vibrant and underscores important action, especially in scenes like Snoopy’s search for the Red Baron, and during musical numbers like “My Blanket and Me” and “Beethoven Day.”
Children will appreciate the show’s fun musical numbers, and adults will enjoy this homage to the classic “Peanuts” characters we all know and love.
Alexis Williams is a teen critic and senior at Charlotte Christian School.
