In today's world, people are always looking to stretch their entertainment dollars. For $45.00 a person, you can take your family to some of the professional venues in the area to catch a show. Or, for about a third of that price, you can catch the professional performances currently on display in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, playing at The Peninsula Community Theater through May 16, 2009.
Director David Springstead, who has a wealth of professional credits, has a clear vision for the show, which is well executed by this talented cast. If you are going to Charlie Brown, you most likely have an idea of what you will see; Wishy-Washy Charlie Brown, crabby Lucy, Linus and his blanket, and of course, Snoopy. They are all there, but you'll be impressed by the performances turned in by this cast of six and the accompanist joining them.
The set mainly consisted of large building blocks that were moved around by the cast in a manner that appeared as carefully choreographed as the musical numbers. Linus' piano and Snoopy's dog house seemed to be pulled straight out of the comic strip, and the dog house in particular was impressive in appearance.
As for the cast, most of them were given ample opportunities to shine, and shine each of them did. Geoffrey Klein was wonderful as Charlie Brown, with great delivery during the "lunch hour" scene and a strong singing voice. Also doing a great job is Adam Wagner as Linus...his number "My Blanket and Me" was especially enjoyable. Wagner has some great lines, and his delivery and facial expressions were right on. Bob Springstead turns in a nice performance as Schroeder, and his vocals were impressive, particularly in "The Book Report". And Hope Wright was hilarious as Lucy in all her glorious crabbiness. Her "Queen scene" was great, as was "The Doctor is In" scene with Charlie Brown. There is something amusing about a Lucy who only comes up to Charlie Brown's shoulder, yet is able to boss and order him around with great ease and self confidence.
The only one who is not served well by the script is Heather Sreves as Patty. She's got a beautiful voice, as is evident in the group numbers, and the few solo lines she has. Unfortunately, she's not able to show off her vocals in this particular role. The nondescript role of Patty was replaced by the character of Sally in the 1999 Broadway revival, and I would have enjoyed seeing and hearing Ms.Sreves in that role. Here's hoping she will be back on the PCT stage in a role that will allow us to hear her. What I did hear from her left me wanting to hear more. But she does do a great job with the role. Her "Rabbit Chasing" scene with Snoopy was delightful.
The plum role of Snoopy is one that, in the hands of the right actor, can be a standout. This production has THE right actor in Tony Brach, who is simply fabulous in the role. From his vocals (including howling in just the right key) to his facial expressions, to the exuberant dance number "Suppertime", Brach completely encompasses the character. Even when he's just lying on the dog house, your eyes are drawn to him.
Choreographer Dana Margulies does her usual terrific job with the dance numbers, and the accompaniment provided by Andrew Blackman was impressive. Julie Perkoski did a great job with costumes, giving each character the costumes we've come to know and love.
So grab the kids and the grandparents, for all will enjoy this production. After all, happiness is spending quality time with loved ones, and You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown is a great way to do it.
You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown runs through May 16, 2009. Call 757-595-5728 for ticket information or visit www.pctlive.org .