Innocence of Peanuts Gang Captured in ‘Charlie Brown’
Charles Schulz’s beloved comic comes to life in Clark Gesner’s classic musical, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” set to be performed the first two weekends in December by the cast of Abrams Spotlight Productions Inc.
The whole gang is here: bossy Lucy, portrayed by Ali Carlson, is hopelessly in love with piano prodigy Schroeder, played by Michael Brunner, who doesn’t give her the time of day.
Perfectionist Sally, played by Elizabeth Zitny, is still mocking blanket-toting Linus, played by Christopher LaChance.
Snoopy, played by Cate Kopkey, is in the doghouse, and the “blockhead,” himself, Charlie Brown, played by Brandon Byng, is in rare form.
The bright and adorable Woodstock is played by Abigail Budz.
Brief vignettes span the months from Valentine’s Day to Beethoven Day, from wild optimism to utter despair. In this revised version, with additional music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and dialogue by Michael Mayer, the sweet, joyful innocence of the Peanuts gang is maintained, but a fresh insouciance and playfulness is revealed.
The new script features two new songs, funny dialogue, and new, catchy orchestrations. Whether you’re keen to fly with the Red Baron or moon over the “Moonlight Sonata,” “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” stirs the memories like a true classic.
Shows will be presented at 7 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 and Dec. 9; 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 and 10; and 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 and 11.
Performances are at the Byng Community Theater, 5852 Maple St., Abrams. Tickets are $14 for adults (18-64), $12 for seniors (65 and older) and youth (5-17) and $7 for children (4 and under). Tickets can be purchased online at www.AbramsTheatre.com or by calling the box office at 920-826-5852.
Abrams Spotlight Productions Inc. will celebrate opening night, Friday, Dec. 2, with a gala. Patrons who attend opening night can enjoy complimentary hors d’oeuvres and drinks with the cast and crew after the show.
December 4th at 1pm
December 9th at 7pm
December 10th at 1pm & 7pm
December 11th at 1pm