The young cast members of Martensville High School’s upcoming musical production may not be familiar with the name, Charles M. Schulz, the talented creator of the Peanuts cartoon strip, which ran from 1950 to 2000 in hundreds of daily newspapers around the world.
But they know all about Snoopy, Charlie Brown, Lucy and Linus.
“I came across a collection of old comics in the library, and I loved ‘Peanuts,” said Max Tesley, who plays the opinionated and bossy Lucy in the school’s production of ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’, which runs November 24-26 at the school’s theatre. “The characters are like real people; they’re complicated and funny.”
Rylie Coller, who plays the lovable everyman Charlie Brown, said her music teacher always encouraged students to watch the Peanuts Christmas and Halloween television specials.
“The stories are just everyday situations,” said Coller. “But you see the bonds of friendship between the characters and how they relate to each other.”
“I love the different personalities of the characters,” said Kayleigh Weekusk, who portrays the impulsive Sally. “We all know people who are like Lucy and Charlie Brown and Snoopy. And we’re all kind of like them ourselves.”
‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown’ was first performed as an off-Broadway musical in New York in 1967. The show, which starred Gary Burghoff in the lead role (if that name sounds familiar, it’s because he played ‘Radar’ in television’s MASH series), ended its run of 1,597 performances in 1971. It remains one of the most popular musicals for amateur theatre.
There’s no real plot,” said Giada Sapinoso, who is one of two actors portraying the philosophical but insecure Linus. “It’s more of a slice of life; it plays out in a way that feels really natural.”
“Each character has a highlight in the play,” said Nico Duero, who also plays Linus. “The characters themselves are the focus. It’s a comedy, with great music. It’s also a lot of fun.”
Emma Hanley, who portrays the musician, Schroeder, said the roles give the actors a chance to step outside their own personalities.
“I like the Schroeder character because he’s creative and kind of intense,” said Hanley. “I’m a bit like that too, but he’s more expressive.”
Snoopy is played by Rylan Shutra.
“I can relate to Snoopy because he likes to be centre stage and steal the scene,” said Shutra. “It’s kind of cool that the dog has speaking lines in the show, and I like being on top of the doghouse.”
The musical is directed by Mary Lou Beck. Tickets are available at the Martensville High School office.