A local musical theatre company is offering some classic Charlie Brown with a Chilliwack twist.
Secondary Characters is rehearsing for a production of ‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown' based on the well-loved Charles Schultz comic strip.
This play gives audiences a glimpse into a day-in-the-life of some well-etched characters, said director Andrew Smith.
The everyday issues explored in Charlie Brown comics are still relevant today.
"They're basic questions like 'Where's my dinner? Why don't I get valentines? Why can't we win a baseball game?'"
With upbeat music, a cartoon-inspired set, and a witty script, it's an entertaining show that will appeal to kids and adults alike.
"It was fun researching the original comics from the '50 and '60s," said Smith. "It's also been a treat to watch actors play and develop the show. It's a chance to reexamine some classic characters that everyone loves."
Do they hold up to the test of time?
"Absolutely," he enthuses.
The production presents a strong ensemble cast with all six cast members from UFV Theatre Department, and five who sing with vocal octet Pieces of Eight.
In the title role of Charlie Brown is Stephen Wilhite, with his trusty sidekick Snoopy, played by Tim Howe. Rounding out the cast is Katherine Beswick as bossy Lucy, Caroline Davies as Charlie’s younger sister Sally, Aaron Froc as Lucy’s little brother Linus, and Jeff Dressler as music-loving Schroeder.
Secondary Characters presented ‘Little Women the Musical,’ last summer, the inaugural production of what is set to become a summer tradition. Bringing together musical theatre artists of all ages and backgrounds, Secondary Characters’ mission is to provide a platform and a stage for both
adults and youth alike. While Chilliwack has several musical theatre programs for youth, the community was missing a summer musical program for all ages, and Secondary Characters was founded to fill that need.
Directing the musical is Smith, who is also director of the Chilliwack School of Performing Arts. Shelley Wojcik is choreographer, and leading a five-piece live orchestra is music director Nicola Davies. Set design is by Kate Whyte, props design by Alyson Seale, costume design by
Caroline Davies, and lighting design by Jamea Lister.
‘You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,’ July 28 to August 7 at UFV Theatre in Chilliwack, Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Saturday, Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets $17.50/$14.50 or $10 for the July 28 Preview, and $18.50/15.50 for opening night with reception. Tickets for the show at UFV Theatre available at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre, 604-391-SHOW, or online www.chilliwackculturalcentre.ca