Very Good Grief: 'You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown'

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IN THE REAL world, Charlie Brown's sadness would come with antidepressants galore and an explanation of his primary trauma, but when his self-esteem issues are exposed on a stage in song, it's so much more fun to watch.

The "Peanuts" gang comes to life in Adventure Theatre's expertly directed and performed production of "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown." From the opening lines of the title song to Snoopy's battle against the Red Baron, the cast exudes energy and precision in their portrayal of Charles Schulz's famously moody, lovelorn, quirky and philosophical cartoon-strip gang that could give Broadway a run for its money.

The story recounts just a day in the life of Charlie Brown and his friends that leads to all kinds of escapades from a friendly game of baseball to a musical daydream number by a fantasy-famous Snoopy. This children's theater takes full advantage of the close seating of little guests, with plenty of audience interaction, from dancing with kids to flying Charlie Brown's red kite high above the audience with its long tail in tow.

Emily Levey's portrayal of Lucy lights up the stage with beautiful vocals full of the strength and grace singular to the strong-willed character. Schroeder, Lucy's uninterested piano-prodigy crush, played by Jobari Parker-Namdar, captures the tortured misunderstood genius of young Schroeder perfectly, whether playing the black miniature baby grand piano or singing about Beethoven Day.

While the energy onstage is upbeat, Andrew Sonntag's performance as supposed buzzkill Charlie Brown doesn't really dampen the mood. Sonntag puts an unexpectedly positive spin on Charlie Brown and his shortcomings that allows for a happier performance. But ultimately, this interpretation dampens the round-headed kid's unique character.

» Adventure Theatre, 7300 Macarthur Blvd., Glen Echo, Md.; through Aug. 8, $12-$15; 301-634-2270.

Written by Express contributor Adaora Otiji
Photo courtesy Adventure Theatre