It’s a school play, Charlie Brown
Published 11:01 am Wednesday, November 14, 2012
Snoopy, played by Molly Kestner, makes a face behind the back of Charlie Brown played by Taylor Sharp during rehearsal for the Austin High School presentation of "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown," Tuesday night in Christgau Hall.
Break out the pianos, and get ready for some Peanuts.
Austin High School students will put on “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown!” this week as its fall musical.
“It’s what I’ve always wanted to do since I was 15,” said Jen Wiebrand, director. Wiebrand loved Peanuts and Charlie Brown so much, she even expanded the cast: About 20 students are involved in the production, as opposed to the six or so parts written in the performance.
Charlie Brown, played by Taylor Sharp, sings in the opening number of "You're a Good Man Charlie Brown," during rehearsal Tuesday night at Christgau Hall.
The show revolves around the beloved character Charlie Brown, examining his journey through a single day and is more of an examination of day-to-day life, according to Wiebrand.
“I feel like I can relate a lot to him,” said AHS junior Taylor Sharp, who plays Brown. “People say I’m a lot like him.”
Sharp said people should enjoy the musical not only for its numbers, but for the scenery and costumes on display.
Yet there’s plenty for a “Peanuts” fan to enjoy, from the Red Baron to the psychiatry office, and even Snoopy and Woodstock.
For AHS Freshman Meghan Burroughs, being in the play is a dream come true.
“When I was a little kid, I was way into ‘Peanuts,’ and especially Lucy,” said Burroughs, who coincidentally plays Lucy.
Burroughs said there was plenty to enjoy in the musical and “Peanuts” fans would be pleased.
The show takes place at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, and tickets cost $7 for adults and $4 for children. Admission is free for AHS students and staff. Concessions will also be available, and the drama department will ask for donations for Project Linus, a non-profit that makes blankets for seriously ill and traumatized youth.
There is one thing missing from “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown!” Lucy won’t get to trick Brown with a football.
“I really wanted to remove the football,” Burroughs said with a smile.
