Get hooked on Spectrum Christian’s uproarious production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” the only thing guaranteed to be more unique than Sally’s coat hanger sculpture!

Based upon the iconic comic strip “Peanuts” by Charles M. Schulz, “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” by Clark Gesner first premiered off-Broadway in 1967, many years prior to Spectrum Christian’s endearing rendition. Charlie Brown is what he believes to be; painfully ordinary, and with such extraordinary friends, such as a budding Beethoven (Schroeder), a destined queen (Lucy), and an admired sculptor (Sally), it proves difficult to feel like anything special. However, luckily for good old Charlie Brown what seems to be mundane at the end of the day may very well be what sets him apart.

This jocular and bustling ensemble possessed all the animation of a crowd at recess and cultivated the extensive talent of a prestigious church choir. Group numbers such as “Glee Club Rehearsal” proved hilarious, and the action of each individual actor provided the audience with a deluge of sights to engage in, while other group numbers such as “Happiness” resonated as sentimental and serene, but as engrossing as the former.

Stephen Dransfield (Charlie Brown) was certainly far from average! Dransfield’s commitment to character was immensely admirable. Be it his wobbling knees or bewildered eyes, he was devotedly present in moments ingenuous and humorous alike. Paired with Kayla Reichard (Lucy), who approached her nutty character with valor, the lead roles were something to marvel at. Reichard’s fortitude did not go unnoticed. She prevailed as the Queen of facial expressions — etched glowering, amused, or appalled, all were utterly outrageous but fitting for the character she created. “My Blanket and Me” was led by the charismatic Jack Fyfe (Linus). Fyfe pervaded in the ensemble and tangoed effortlessly in the spotlight. Brooke Colkitt (Sally) jittered perpetually, but not from lack of talent! Rather, Colkitt made a choice for her character and maintained it — a wonderful philosophy to have!

It’s time to dig in to David Link’s (Snoopy) riveting performance of impeccable comedic timing and enthused vocals sure to have your tail wagging! Link and vivacious Victoria Farnsworth (Frieda) in “Rabbit Chasing Pantomime” gratified the stage and found the audience nearly jumping for joy! Eliana Anthony (Peppermint Patty) deserves a pat on the back for her poised drollery, and Lawrence Custis (Schroeder) hit a major chord with the audience in his dynamic characterization and mellifluous vocals in “Beethoven Day.”

Victoria Farnsworth’s simplistic but fervent choreography resembled what could be considered movement in the actual “Peanuts” comic. Farnsworth’s work illuminated the stage and united the ensemble as a team and as students. Stage Manager Tara Lynch led her team effectively, as they approached each transition with grace, and sometimes, a trampoline!

Spectrum Christian’s production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” optimized the script and overflowed the presentational space. Their kite did not just fly, it soared!

by Alyssa Williamson of Liberty