Family Musical, “Charlie Brown,” Brought to Life by Crown Point Community Theatre

Charlie-Brown-1Charlie Brown and his lovable gang of friends showcase “A Day in the Life” of this classic cartoon character in CPCT’s production of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown.” Running August 3-18, 2013, this family-friendly musical production features the characters you know and love in scenes common to the blockhead’s every day existence. From getting his kite stuck in a tree to adoring the Little Red-Haired Girl from afar, to explaining to his sister that snow does not grow up but rather falls down, Charlie Brown, played by Matthew B. Byerly of Valparaiso, relives the innocence of childhood while exploring some philosophical themes that require a little more experience at life.

When asked about the show, director Jerry Jascoviak commented, “I’ve always been a Peanuts fan. So much of what Charlie Brown experiences can be related to by everyone including the crush on the girl that doesn’t pay you any attention, the bratty older sister, playing tricks on friends. All innocent fun but part of who we become, based on how we respond.”

The entire Crane family, from Michigan City, - mother, Amy (Lucy); father, Andrew (Schroeder); son, Wil (IO’s); and daughter, Ella (Woodstock), all play along side each other. Rounding out the cast are Maddie Breford (Sally) from Schererville, Stephanie Naumoff of Valparaiso as Snoopy, William Milhans (Linus) and Grace Nicholls (Woodstock) of Crown Point, Portage resident Laura Koch as Peppermint Patty, Roxann Poor (Marcie) of Hebron, and Trish Neary as Frieda from Demotte. Production staff includes directors, Becky and Jerry Jascoviak; musical director, Peggy Keen; vocal director, Deb Porter; choreographer Amanda Kersker; lighting designer, PJ Culbertson; and sound designer, Joe Mion.

Charlie-Brown-2Performances of “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” are August 3 – 18, 2013 with Friday and Saturday performances at 7 pm and Sunday matinees at 3 pm followed by an ice cream social sponsored by Valpo Velvet. All performances will be held at the Crown Point Community Theatre, 1125 Merrillville Road, Crown Point, Indiana. Ticket prices are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors/students (children 5 and under sitting on a parent’s lap are free), and $10 for groups of 10 or more. Tickets are available online at www.cpct.biz or by calling the box office at 219-805-4255.

Vintage Peanuts Merchandise Silent Auction

Along with the performances, the theatre will be featuring a fundraising silent auction of vintage Peanuts collectibles. A few featured items include classic Charlie Brown and Linus dolls from the 1960s, a ViewMaster projector from the 1950s, and a set of Peanuts gang glasses from McDonald’s from the 1980s. “As is typical with community theatres, ticket sales only cover about half of the costs associated with running a theatre. Additional funds must come from donations, sponsors, and other gifts,” said President, Kerry Fitch. Patrons may bid on items directly at the theatre or online at www.cpct.biz.

Special Needs Performance

A special performance will be held August 8, 2013 for families with special needs. Focusing on children with sensory overload issues or those that may disrupt others, this performance will be softer and more open in nature. CPCT is honored to be able to bring live theatre experiences to those who are often left out of such artistic endeavors. Seating is expressly limited. Tickets are $10 each and the special needs patron is free. Call for reservations for this special performance, 219-805-4255.

10th Season

“Charlie Brown” closes out the ninth season of productions for CPCT. The 10th season, opening in September features Glengarry Glen Ross, Night Watch, Tiny Tim, Godspell, Sordid Lives, and Hamlet. Season Tickets and Season Sponsorships are still available. For more information on our 10th season, visit www.cpct.biz or call 219-805-4255.

Crown Point Community Theatre is a non-profit theatre bringing the theatre arts home for adults, youth, and children through eclectic programming including mainstage productions, special engagements, youth drama troupe, and kids summer camp programs.