Campbelltown Theatre Group: You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown - Review by Nicole Smith

Based on The Comic Strip “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schulz with Book, Music and Lyrics by Clark Gesner. Broadway's beloved, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, has come alive again at Campbelltown Theatre Group just in time for its 75th anniversary. This vibrant rendition, showcasing the iconic Peanuts gang, is a delightful journey through nostalgia, brimming with heart and humour. Under Georgee Glynn's insightful direction, the creative team have brought Charles M. Schulz’s Peanuts to life, staying true to the essence of the iconic Peanuts while offering fresh interpretations, delighting the audience of all ages.

Photo credit: Grant Leslie

But it’s more than a comic. Glynn reminds us in the program notes that the show is “about friendship, frustration, tiny triumphs, and the big feelings tucked inside everyday moments. It reminds us that happiness might just be a peanut butter sandwich, a freshly sharpened pencil, or lying back to watch the clouds”. It’s the kind of show that lets you sit back and be whomever you are and embrace that 6 year old inside.

As Charlie Brown, Daniel Conway is our perpetually hopeful yet hapless protagonist. The central character in the Peanuts comic strip is emblematic of the everyman; he embodies resilience and perseverance despite frequent misfortunes. Conway portrays him with a sincere, albeit often anxious, personality and signature Charlie Brown facial expressions. He has deep empathy, a genuine heart, and an unwavering, albeit challenged, sense of optimism. He persistently tries to succeed, whether flying a kite or playing baseball, even though he faces repeated failures. Charlie Brown's ongoing quest for acceptance, self-worth, kindness and determination makes him a deeply relatable and enduring character who is loved for his authenticity and vulnerability. Conway captures Charlie Brown's soul with endearing charm. His renditions of “The Kite” and “The Baseball Game” pull on those emotional strings, combining the mirth and melancholy that sweet Charlie is known for.

Photo credit: Grant Leslie

Brendan Cascarino takes on Snoopy with fur-tastic flair! His “Suppertime” is show-stealing, channelling the beloved beagle’s whimsical nature and boundless energy into a pawsome performance that had the audience howling with laughter. The iconic doggo is known for his vibrant imagination and distinct personality, he dreams of being a World War I flying ace, courageously battling the Red Baron, atop his doghouse. Snoopy's playful antics are balanced by a laid-back demeanour and a dash of mischief, which are well captured in Cascarino’s performance, highlighting his role as a beloved and multi-faceted character in the Peanuts world.

Photo credit: Grant Leslie

Emily Ailes as Sally Brown is delightfully vivacious, injecting the perfect blend of sass and sweetness. Her personality shines through with her candidness and sometimes comical pragmatism. She approaches challenges with optimism and resignation, humorously expressing her frustration with phrases like "Why me?" Ailes’s characterisations draw the eye in the best way and her rendition of “My New Philosophy” sparkles with humour, echoing the hilarity and authenticity of childhood curiosity.

Bernadette Glynn's bold performance showcases Lucy Van Pelt’s signature bossiness and charm. Her standout number, “The Doctor Is In,” is both commanding and hilariously snappy, perfectly encapsulating Lucy’s larger-than-life personality and her bossy self evaluation and crush on Schroeder are well played with the right level of comic.

Photo credit: Grant Leslie

As the wise-beyond-his-years blanket-toting lad, Rainer Smith finds Linus Van Pelt’s gentle wisdom and innocence. “My Blanket and Me” balances humour and heart, leaving us cheering for Linus and his steadfast companion. The hilarious choreography left the audience in stitches.

Beethoven-loving musician Schroeder feels at home in Conor Healey-Green’s hands. With his piano-playing eccentricities, his performance, particularly during “Beethoven Day,” is rhythmic and precise, much like the composer he adores.

Photo credit: Grant Leslie

Wendy Adam & Zoe Cooper’s costume designs echo the simplicity and colour palette of Charles Schulz's beloved comic strip, making the characters recognisable. This decision embraces and celebrates these characters' timelessness.

Matt Glynn orchestrated the musical landscape of the show. Highlights include the irresistible “Happiness,” a closing number that lingers in your heart like a cherished memory, and "The Book Report,”. Choreographer and Assistant Director Kirsten Jowsey infused the production with fun choreography that mirrored the playfulness and innocence of childhood, captured in the script.

Lighting designer Justin Phan’s expertise in creating mood and atmosphere was evident. His use of lighting, bringing Schultz’s comic panel backgrounds to the stage, transported the audience into the whimsical world of Charlie Brown and his friends, with characters highlighted in their signature colours throughout.

Of note, CTG's Relaxed performance will occur on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at 2:00 PM and is open to everyone who would benefit from a more relaxed environment. There is an open-door policy allowing for movement in and out of the venue. House lights will be kept on at a low level, and elements of the show that might include loud noises or sudden bright lights will be toned down or removed.

This production thrives on the nostalgia, hitting notes that remind us of rainy-day comic strips and Saturday morning cartoons. The choreography, set design, and vibrant musical numbers transport you back to simpler times while still appealing to today’s audience.

The CTG team delivers a fantastically fun, sweet, and joyful experience. Much like a warm embrace from an old friend, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown leaves us smiling, reminding us that happiness is just around the corner—right in the bliss of being loved and understood, faults and all.