Just in time for school holidays, Stage Bugs Productions returns You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown to the stage in a vibrant production filled with winning performances.
Before Bluey there was Snoopy, loyal and loving hound of awkward and anxious Charlie Brown. The Peanuts comic strip may have long dropped from circulation but the life lessons experienced by the keenly observed gang remain evergreen and ever endearing.
The 56-year old musical remains zesty and fresh, its comic strip styling ensuring that almost all dialogue scenes run no longer than a few frames: set up; punchline; good grief! Clark Gesner’s original book, music, and lyrics were enhanced by contributions from Andrew Lippa and Michael Mayer for the 1999 Broadway revival, which is the smart, streamlined version seen here.
The conceit of adults playing young children is well served by the book, which draws from the original sharp writing (and drawing) of Charles M. Schulz. A key appeal of the show is the tartness of the children’s frankness with each other; no saccharine sentimentality here. There is also no particular arc or journey in the overall story; these eight-year-olds are doing well to identify where they find “Happiness” at the end of the show.
Gesner’s songs (with input from Lippa) have a deceptive simplicity that allows them to sound charmingly spontaneous and natural, while actually being cleverly constructed and instantly catchy. Music director Matthew Nutley leads a band of five musicians in a tight performance of the score. Vocal preparation of the cast is first rate, with relatively complex songs like “The Book Report” and “Glee Club Rehearsal” flying smoothly.
Director Cameron O’Reilly keeps the tone bright and the pace brisk, guiding the talented ensemble cast of seven to craft sharp, well-observed characterisations. Avoiding caricatures, the actors thoroughly inhabit the roles and allow the witty humour to speak for itself.
Working with co-set designer Damian Jones, O’Reilly makes clever use of the tight Alex Theatre stage space, with sets remaining on stage, playfully moved into place for each scene by the cast. The band is on stage, behind a colourful icy pole stick picket fence, and there is even a slide for the characters to make an entrance in real style.
One more clever touch in the design is the custom-made proscenium arch, featuring blocks of the trademark clothing pattern of each character. Set, costume and lighting are vividly hued in rich primary colours, reflecting the vibrant world that kids love to inhabit.
Costume design by Britni Leslie is completely authentic and visually appealing. Woodstock in yellow pinafore, skivvy, and beret is a fun highlight, and the wigs of Sally and Lucy are impressively perfect.
Choreographer Lisa-Maree Thomason collaborates confidently with O’ Reilly to deliver characterful, energetic dance and movement. The blanket ballet within and following “My Blanket and Me” is a delight, and “The Red Baron – Melodrama” has a wonderful old school vaudeville style.
The construction of You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown gives every character a chance to shine, which they certainly do in this well cast production.
Dylan Mazurek wins hearts with the droopy-drawers melancholy of Charlie Brown.
Britni Leslie is totally vivacious as ambitious Sally, bringing plenty of verve to act two hit “My New Philosophy.” Rebecca Symonds does not shy from the sharp tongue of Lucy, making the “crabby” character all the more engaging.
Bradley Storer neatly underplays introvert musician Schroeder, staying true to the serious vision of the sincere little pianist. Jackson Howe has an adorable presence as Linus, coming to the fore to lead breakout dance number “My Blanket and Me.”
Dinesh Mathew is suitably perky and frisky as Snoopy. In the silent role of Woodstock, Samantha Stewart deftly conveys expression through her elegant dance skills.
Terrific entertainment for children or anyone who ever was a child, You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown is a pleasure for audience members of all ages.
You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown plays at Alex Theatre, St Kilda until 2 July 2023. For tickets, click here.
Photos: 3fatesmedia