You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown

Beacon Musical Society (formerly EUCMS)

There’s something comforting about watching a community theatre production of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown. Perhaps it’s the nostalgia of Schulz’s beloved Peanuts gang, or perhaps it’s the reminder that community theatre is about people coming together to create something joyful. Beacon Musical Society’s recent production was a warm, generous, and thoroughly good-hearted example of just that.

Directed by Penny Wilson, with Bec Kimpton as Musical Director, Allie Butler as Choreographer and Caroline Reddel as Production Manager, this production embraced the spirit of inclusion and enthusiasm that defines community theatre. The decision to expand the cast beyond the traditional six principals was a bold one but it brought a delightful sense of energy and colour to the stage.

Photo credit: Abby Moyes

The principal cast was led by Andy Myles who played the ever-earnest Charlie Brown with the requisite awkwardness, frustration and lovability. Alisha Aggarwal brought a delightful spark to Lucy, balancing bossiness with just enough vulnerability to keep her endearing, all while managing demanding vocal solos and moments of perfect comic timing. Joshua Wilson brought the adorable Linus to life and elicited repeated utterings of “aww” from the audience, particularly during My Blanket and Me, where Wilson’s vocal prowess and dancing skills were on show. Christopher Melotti, as a seasoned performer, brought a strength to the stage that helped ground key scenes. He portrayed Schroeder with wit, charm and excellent timing. Ayla Gortan, as Sally, played the perfect little sister with confidence, energy and sass.

Photo credit: Abby Moyes

For me, though, the star of the show (both in the musical and the comic) is Snoopy. Leo O’Donoghue brought the loveable beagle to life with powerful vocals, energy, charm and impressive physical comedy.

Photo credit: Abby Moyes

The ensemble provided vocal richness to group numbers like The Book Report and Happiness, and added layers of humour to both the scripted scenes and the moments of comic “business” offered during scene changes. While there were moments where the stage felt a little crowded and there was a lot to take in, the overall effect was one of joyful chaos — much like a real schoolyard, which felt entirely appropriate. While all performers gave it their all, special mention should be made of Saher Hashmi-Khan, featured dancer, who owned the stage at every entry and brought the audience joy in her hilariously adorable portrayals of both the blanket and the rabbit.

Photo credit: Abby Moyes

The production design was delightful. Bright, cartoon-inspired set pieces and cleverly designed LED backdrops helped bring the world of the Peanuts to life, and the use of props was clever without being fussy. A particular shout-out to the wardrobe team, under the direction of Ros Moore, for their attention to detail in presenting each character in a manner that honoured the original and helped orient the audience as they leant into the Peanuts tropes that were so vital to the narrative.

So, whether you’re a lifelong Peanuts fan or simply looking for an evening of light-hearted entertainment, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown offers a delightful experience filled with laughter, nostalgia, and community spirit.

 www.eucms.org.au  

Opening Sat 1 Nov || 2pm & 7pm, then Friday 7 Nov || 8pm, Saturday 8 Nov || 2pm & 7pm, Saturday 15 Nov || 2pm & 7pm