You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
at St. Thomas Aquinas High School

Reviewed on March 15, 2020

Rachel Goldberg
Cooper City High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Dear pen pal, the sun rose on a beautiful day today, and Saint Thomas Aquinas' "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" was better than suppertime! We learned that snow comes up, Peter Rabbit is like Robinhood and happiness is an ageless wonder that touches the hearts of all who spread love.

"You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" is a musical with music and lyrics by Clark Gesner and direct excerpts from the "Peanuts" comic strips written by Charles M. Schulz. The series of small, slice-of-life scenes allow for serious yet comical interactions as well as catchy musical numbers. The show started at first base with its original off-Broadway production, and then hit a home run with the 1999 Broadway revival, which won two Tony Awards for Best Featured Actor and Actress! The story follows the journey of Charlie Brown, an insecure and optimistic young boy searching to discover himself. A day in the life of Charlie Brown and his Peanut gallery teaches that "happiness is anyone or anything at all that's loved by you."

With genuine devotion and awkward innocence, Baseball Team Manager and big brother Charlie Brown was embodied by Vicente Tome. With not a single Valentine, Tome showcased Charlie Brown's sadness, but also demonstrated his optimism in his efforts to understand why everyone calls him a "Good Man." Tome's physicality set him apart from the rest of the cast, his awkward movements, and inward characterization added authenticity to his performance. By his side with advice for five cents, Lucy, was played by Liana Genao. With a 51 on the crabbiness scale and about to own a queendom, Genao kept a consistent character voice while speaking and had great comedic timing. Her relationship with her baby brother Linus was standout for its sincerity.

As the philosophical little genius, Sam Infantino's Linus was full of child-like wonder. Infantino showed a clear commitment to his character, not only in his acting but also by maintaining a consistent lisp while still being understood. With a new philosophy by the minute, Sophia Janssens' Sally Brown was characterized by dedication and outstanding vocal ability. Janssens maintained her character's voice throughout the show, and her transitions from speaking to singing were expertly smooth, most memorably in her song "My New Philosophy." Also providing remarkable vocals was Schroeder, played by Michael Ryder.

The cast altogether did a wonderful job creating the caricatures that were seen on stage. Despite occasionally falling flat, the ensemble succeeded vocally and had fantastic diction. The Woodstock ensemble added humor and well-executed choreography to the performance. One exceptional performer was Skyler Hall as Linus' Blanket. The technical elements of the show added depth and detail to the already delightful performance. Detailed costume and hair elements brought each character to life. Props and Makeup should be commended for their success in making the characters and the stage cartoon-like. The stage management team was noteworthy for their smooth and speedy transitions, and lighting was also used to great effect, helping to focus the audience on the important scene at-hand.

So, pen pal, today was a great day. Saint Thomas Aquinas' production of "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" was a beautiful story of happiness, love, and friendship.

Jenna McCoy
Calvary Christian Academy
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Did you know that clouds make the wind blow and bugs make the grass grow? Those are just little known facts, much like the excellence of St. Thomas Aquinas High School's production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." The production outlined the message of finding happiness in being true to yourself.

Clark Gesner wrote the original production of "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown" that premiered off-broadway in 1967. Shortly after, it opened on Broadway but barely lasted for a single month. Revisions were made to the script and music by Michael Mayer and Andrew Lippa for its 1999 revival, which ran for around 5 months. The story itself follows the six different members of the "Peanuts Gang" from the Charles M. Schulz comics. It contains a myriad of vignettes showing the characters simply living life.

Playing the hopeless Charlie Brown, Vincente Tome lead the show with child-like, yet imposing vocals and animated facial expressions. He isolated his character from the others in physicality by carrying out clumsy and awkward movements. His movements contributed to the dynamic of other characters secluding the forlorn Brown. Alongside Tome was the vivacious younger sister of Charlie Brown, Sally Brown (Sophia Janssens). Janssens' character seemed to be lifted directly off the page of Schulz's comics. She was able to stay true to the character while still making unique choices. She also excelled in her consistency; her vocals were exceptional and she remained in her "kid voice" the whole show.

Michael Ryder impressed the audience with his soothing vocals as the reserved Schroeder. He portrayed the animated character as extravagant during his songs, but more relatable when delivering his lines. Flying across the stage, the "Woodstocks" demonstrated clean technique in their numerous ballet numbers. They also were constantly animated while performing their "cartoon-ish" choreography. Despite some lackluster vocals, the ensemble's spirited persona did not allow the energy to dwindle.

The technical elements of the musical are no easy task, but the crew took it on with ease. Being on time with all its cues, the lighting of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" used assorted colors to represent the emotions of the characters. The hair and makeup team, as well as costumes, are worthy of praise too. The makeup on the actors accurately depicted characters from a comic strip. In addition, the costumes made sure they kept the characters true to the comics, from their hair to shoes. Though at times the sound cues were off-time with the actors, the sound quality was clear and enjoyable.

Through St. Thomas Aquinas High School's production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," we know to be ourselves because we are loved, and by achieving happiness ourselves, we can help others be happy.

Emma Sugarman
J.P. Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Relive the wonders of childhood as the Peanuts Gang takes you back to the sunshine and sugary days of youth. St. Thomas Aquinas High School's cheerful production of "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" will take you through the "thoroughly, totally, utterly, blah" obstacles of growing up.

Based on Charles M. Shultz's adored comic strip, "Peanuts," the revue of songs and vignettes enlivens each member of the classic cartoon. With music, lyrics, and book by Clark Gesner, "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" immerses you into the one-dimensional world of colorful antics and five-cent psychiatry sessions. The spirited musical comedy will transport you back to simpler times as the beloved characters face the inevitable hardships of being a kid as they battle kites, baseball, crushes, and school.

The noble, humble, honorable "Blockhead," Charlie Brown, was embodied by Vincente Tome. Tome's consistent sense of wonder conveyed through his hopeful expressions and stellar tone, created an engaging performance. Unlike his self-deprecating character may think, Tome displayed a flawless balance of maturity and youthfulness, capturing the heart of any viewer. Liana Genao portrayed the forceful and crabby, yet stunning, Lucy Van Pelt. Genao maintained her characteristic voice and physicality throughout the production, providing a significant contribution to her comical performance. Her character's endless opinions and sassy remarks were conveyed through Genao's bold and unwavering characterization.

Playing the younger sister of Charlie Brown, who will stop at nothing to get what she deserves, Sophia Janssens captured the role of Sally Brown through her relentless energy and commitment. Janssens' articulate and amusing voice was seamlessly conveyed through both her speaking and singing lines. Janssens' well-developed persona stayed true to the familiar character of the comic while adding her own unique flair. The blanket-coddling Linus was conveyed by Sam Infantino. Infantino's line delivery was clear and precise despite his character's humorous speech impediment. Infantino evidently displayed his role's young age through his innocent mannerisms and physicality.

The ensemble of the production certainly captured the youthfulness of their characters with their wide-eyed wonder and frantic movements. The commendable stage crew, or Peanuts, remained in character during each scene change and even participated in musical numbers. The Woodstock ensemble presented clean and technically advanced choreography. The company's faultless energy allowed for a consistently immersive performance.

The technical aspects of the production lifted the world of Charlie Brown right off the page. The interactive yet seemingly one-dimensional set bounced off the beautifully lit backdrop of dazzling colors and clouds. The comically oversized costumes and props represented the small stature the actors were imitating. Additionally, the costumes, accompanied by the hair and makeup, perfectly represented the appearance of the well-known characters.

Rediscover the hopes and hiccups of youth with St. Thomas Aquinas High School's lighthearted production of "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown." Feel the everlasting joy of life because no matter your age, "Happiness" can be found on the turn of every page.

Jaime Happel
J.P. Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

"Good grief!" Don't get your jump rope in a tangle! And wipe off that failure face! It's time to fly the Red Baron over to St. Thomas Aquinas High School and cozy up with your security blanket to enjoy the STA Players' vibrant, nostalgic, and lighthearted production of "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown."

With music and lyrics by Clark Gesner, "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" features a series of vignettes based on strips from beloved comic, "Peanuts," by Charles M. Schulz. While the book for the musical was credited to an author, it was later revealed that the author's name, "John Gordon," was really a pseudonym for everyone who contributed to the script: Gesner, the original cast, and the production staff. The musical originated as a concept album and later debuted on Broadway for a brief run in June of 1971 at the John Golden Theatre. A revival of the production took place in 1999 and replaced the original character of Patty with Sally Brown, the role for which Kristen Chenoweth won a Tony Award.

Vicente Tome brought the iconic character of Charlie Brown to life with a meek demeanor and lovable personality that set him apart from the bunch. Tome developed an endearing connection with Liana Genao (Lucy Van Pelt) that was only strengthened over the course of the show. Genao completely encompassed the caricature-like nature of her crabby, bossy character, even altering her voice to match. Genao commanded the stage as if it were her own "Queendom," but also showcased her softer side through her relationship with the kind-mannered, compelling vocalist, Michael Ryder (Schroder).

Sophia Janssens portrayed Charlie's rosy-cheeked younger sister, Sally Brown, with her own unique spin on the well-known character. Janssens' imaginative choices and giddy physicality made her a joy to watch on stage, and her powerful vocals shined through in her adorable rendition of "My New Philosophy." Sam Infantino depicted the sweet, thumb-sucking baby of the group, Linus Van Pelt. Throughout the production, Infantino displayed Linus' child-like-wonder and demonstrated commendable comedic timing, noticeably in his solo "My Blanket and Me."

The ensemble dove headfirst into Charles M. Schulz's cartoon world, truly capturing the iconic characters with consistent commitment. Although the stage was often a bit crowded during group numbers, the cast never lacked in energy. Technically, there was evident attention to detail throughout the show, especially in regards to hair and makeup. Bright, colorful lighting clearly set the mood and time of day during the production, and oversized costumes and props were a creative and playful touch that further contributed to the believable building of the whimsical world. Microphones and music were impressively balanced and blended, but at times the cues and vocal entrances were not in sync.

St. Thomas Aquinas High School's high-spirited production of "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" teaches us that the most important philosophy that one can have is simple, clear, and only takes a minute: "Happiness."

Cristian Velasquez
Cypress Bay High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Whether it's becoming queen, placing Beethoven's face on Mt. Rushmore, battling the Red Baron, or getting the cute little red-headed girl to notice you, everyone desires happiness. St. Thomas Aquinas High School's whimsical production of "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" explores this topic through the charm of the "Peanuts."

Based on Charles M. Schulz's characters in his comic strip "Peanuts," "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown" opened off-Broadway in 1967 with music and lyrics by Clark Gesner and book by John Gordon, later premiering on Broadway in 1971. Rather than having one continuous storyline, this production is written as a series of vignettes, with dialogue taken straight from Shultz's famous comics.

Leading the performance as the clumsy blockhead Charlie Brown was Vicente Tome, remarkably embodying the awkwardness of his character. Tome established a distinct character and maintained his childlike physicality throughout the entirety of the production. Portraying the cruel and crabby Lucy Van Pelt, Liano Genao presented strong physicality and remained consistent in her character voice. Genao demonstrated impeccable comedic abilities and maintained a clear understanding of her character, creating an authentic and engaging performance.

Linus Van Pelt, Lucy's mature and intelligent younger brother, was captured by Sam Infantino. Infantino remained consistent with his lisp throughout the production and formed a charming sibling-like relationship with Genao, contributing to the authenticity of his performance. Sophia Janssens embodied the stubborn and immature Sally Brown. Janssens expressed powerful vocals and enthusiasm in her humourous duet, "My New Philosophy." Her creative characterization and unwavering energy made her performance all the more compelling.

With beautifully blended harmonies and consistent energy, the show's ensemble flawlessly captured the childlike wonder and energy of the production, despite being flat in their songs at times. The dancing ensemble of Woodstocks additionally brought an infectious comedic aspect and brilliant liveliness to the production. A standout performance among them was that of Cameron Wasteney as Pig-Pen. Wastney displayed a strong stage presence and charismatic comedic character.

The technical elements of the production wonderfully captured the cartoonish and whimsical world of the Peanuts comics. Stage management must be commended for the seamless scenic transitions and accuracy on the numerous lighting cues throughout the production. The use of white eyeliner and cartoonish hairstyles remarkably conveyed the youthfulness of each character. The costume designs were reminiscent of the classic outfits worn by the Peanuts characters and constructed to appear larger than the actors, making them appear smaller. The same effect was created by the oversized props, adding a cartoonish aspect to the production.

In their spirited and effervescent production of "You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown," St. Thomas Aquinas High School teaches us that despite our struggles, happiness can be found in "anyone and anything at all that's loved by you."