Beacon Musical Society: You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown - Review by Jordan Anderson

A wonderful blast of nostalgia from when we grew up; You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown presented by Beacon Musical Society, previously Eastwood Uniting Church Musical Society, is sure to delight the young and the young at heart with a production full of heart and love.

            Utilising a larger cast then traditional, director Penny Wilson, has shown a clear adoration for the original comic strip by Charles M. Schulz by incorporating a whole range of characters not in the original script of the musical, such as Woodstock, Peppermint Patty and Pig-Pen, which really helped transport us into the world of the Peanuts. While there was some repetition in scenes, it was lovely to see the supporting ensemble getting featured in the short interludes which both expanded the world and gave everyone a small chance to shine.

            Rounding out the production team with Penny, was Bec Kimpton as Musical Director and Allie Butler as Choreographer.  Props to Bec as the cast blended together beautifully while singing together, though I do have to say unfortunately there were some mixing issues and at times the band overpowered the singers on stage.  Allie Butlers choreography was simple, but effective in the space and really gave the feel of one of the Peanuts many dance parties. A special shout out to Saher Hashmi-Khan who danced as both the rabbit and the blanket and absolutely stole the show both times with their smile and physicality.

       But what about the stars of the show? Well Andy Myles steps up to the title role with perfect endearing apathy, showcasing a Charlie Brown, who knows what he wants but struggles with the courage (or skill) to get it. Andy has a wonderful relatability with the better luck next time nihilism that Charlie Brown is known for and his number ‘The Kite’ really showcases that idea of being so close to get your dreams but falling short in the end.

            As a boys best friend, Lee O’Donoghue plays Snoopy with a loveable charm, effortlessly bounding around the stage in search of supper, but then having that cool laissez-faire attitude when resting on his dog house. It was clear to see the fun that Lee was injecting into this iconic role and many of his numbers were the showstoppers of the night.

            Playing Brother and Sister, Lucy and Linus Van Pelt, was Alisha Aggarwal and Joshua Wilson. Alisha was bold, brassy and maybe a little crabby, effortlessly controlling the stage. She strutted around with all the arrogance of a 5-year old and didn’t just deserve the applause but demanded it. She was a delight to watch, especially when interacting with her younger, wide-eyed brother. Joshua’s Linus was adorable and the perfect side kick to Alisha’s Lucy as he was clearly believing every word that came out of her mouth, cementing in that wonderful sibling dynamic.

            Rounding out the main cast was Ayla Gortan as Charlie Browns younger sister Sally and musical prodigy Schroeder, played by Christopher Melotti. Ayla played the impertinent younger Brown sibling with all the tenacity the role deserved. Her number ‘My Philosophy’ revealed a powerful voice that matched the attitude. Chris Melotti as the musically obsessed Schroeder had clear singular vision which made for some very funny moments with his co-stars. His fake piano playing could use some work though.

            While at times the stage did feel a little crowded, which did mean that unfortunately some moments might have gotten lost, this overall was a very charming production with a cast and crew that obviously had a lot of love to give. The feel of the community coming together to make something that they were all incredibly passionate about could be felt through every note of the show. You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown is still on for another few weeks at Epping Baptist Church, so if you get the chance, go see it and support Community Theatre at its finest.