Review: YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN is a Family Friendly Production For All Ages

YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN first appeared off-Broadway in 1967. Since that time, productions, including the award-winning 1999 Broadway revival, have delighted theater lovers with a peak into the mishaps and adventures of these beloved characters. The production features the classic music and lyrics by Clark Gesner, with additional songs added by Andrew Lippa, and timeless witty comedy relatable to audiences both young and old.

YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN is a musical series of vignettes following the characters that were made household names by Schultz's weekly comic strip, Peanuts. These brief scenes span the days and months between Valentine's Day to Beethoven's Birthday, ranging from wildly hilarious to poignantly sweet. Sally (Emily Barham) and Snoopy (Clayton Brooks) are on the hunt for rabbits, Lucy (AbiGail Luna) is in love with the completely oblivious Schroeder (Brendon Bowyer), Linus (Chris Szeto-Joe) can't seem to detach himself from his blanket, and poor Charlie Brown (Christian Aderholt) just wants the nerve to talk to the little red-headed girl (and for his kite to fly). Through moments of despair, triumph, and utter confusion, Charlie and the gang realize that being "good," means trying your best and finding happiness is as easy as finding a pencil.

Southwestern University's Sarofim Fine Arts' Department is currently running their production in the 325-seat Jones Theater. This venue is formidably large and also boasts a revolving platform, which is utilized in the show's staging. Paired with the larger-than-life comic projections created by lighting designer Patrick Anthony and a fanciful set designed by Austin Mueck, the venue gave a monumental first impression.

Stand out performances in the show belong to AbiGail Luna as the frantic egomaniac Lucy. Luna steals the show not only with boundless energy and wild antics, but with her superb vocal performance during all of her numbers, including her solo piece "Schroeder." Clayton Brooks exudes boyish charm as the overly dramatic Snoopy and receives copious amounts of applause for his rendition of "Suppertime." Chris Szeto-Joe's deeply philosophical, matter-of-fact portrayal of Linus leaves audience members in stitches during "My Blanket and Me." The ensemble's best group number was "The Book Report," which features each character singing simultaneously about writing a report on Peter Rabbit. All the while, Sally and Snoopy search the audience for their own elusive rabbits.

It is important to note that pacing is vital to any theatrical production. Unfortunately, this show falls flat during one or more of the non-singing scenes between musical numbers. Character development seems neglected, resulting in several of the actors relying on over acting to keep up momentum throughout the show. The same amount of attention paid to Karly Lewis' excellent choreography and the show's overall staging would have proved beneficial to the young actors' character work. With the department's vast amounts of resources and support, it was surprising to find these basic foundational issues.

The musical accompaniment and vocal performances were also problematic. The slow-moving tempo of the accompaniment tracks resulted in another hit to the show's stride. A simple pick up in speed could have revived the production's energy and exuberance. Vocal performances were also at best uneven. All actors, with the exception of AbiGail Luna and Christian Aderholt, struggle with range during certain numbers, with some even singing flat on occasion. While it's clear the cast members possess beautiful voices, classical singing styles cannot always suffice when a full, supported belt or gospel-style singer is needed.

In summary, YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN is a very enjoyable, family friendly production appropriate for all ages. This is also the perfect show to ring in the holiday season with its cheery and timely message. Though the production needs more fine-tuning the talent of these young students, both onstage and behind-the-scenes, is undeniable. It seems certain that cast and crew will have plenty of theatrical opportunities during their school years and beyond.

YOU'RE A GOOD MAN, CHARLIE BROWN is now playing at Jones Theater at Southwestern University (1001 East University Avenue Georgetown, TX 78626) through November 20th. Friday at 7:30pm and Saturday-Sunday at 3pm.

Approximate Running Time: 120 minutes. One 15-minute intermission.

Tickets: $14-$18

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