The company of A Charlie Brown Christmas | Photo: Tim Matheson
Christmas cheer is everywhere and Charlie Brown is not impressed. Sleigh bells ring, children sing, and gifts are given as passersby march merrily through the streets bursting with holiday glee. Meanwhile, Charlie Brown stands idly by muttering, “Good Grief!”
Since 1965, A Charlie Brown Christmas has been a holiday season staple, gracing the television screens of homes around the world. Based on the comic strip Peanuts, the Christmas special follows a depressed Charlie Brown on his quest to find the true meaning of Christmas, and thanks to his festive peers, his depression is lifted as he succumbs to the festive spirit.
This year, Vancouver’s Carousel Theatre for Young People brings the animated tale to life with a fresh, modern take on the age-old holiday classic. Here’s what you can expect from this can’t-miss production.
The company of A Charlie Brown Christmas | Photo: Tim Matheson
The amazingly talented cast perfectly mimics the quirky elements of the comic strip characters while hitting the high notes with festive songs and humorous happenings. From Charlie Brown’s gloomy demeanour, to Sally’s hair-flipped, wide-eyed grin, to Lucy’s sarcastic nuances and Snoopy’s sneaky shenanigans, the characters are captured perfectly.
Clap-worthy musical medleys are sprinkled throughout the show, but the singing characters don’t stop at the signature songs – the performance also features songs that represent traditions from around the world that are also celebrated during the month of December.
Andrew Cownden as Charlie Brown | Photo: Tim Matheson
Staying true to the original rendition, the set features a miniature grand piano played by Schroeder, a lemonade-stand-style booth offering “Psychiatric Help” from Lucy (for only 5 cents!), and Snoopy’s signature dog house. And of course, no version of A Charlie Brown Christmas would be complete without the presence of a measly, wilting “Charlie Brown Christmas tree” that transforms into a glorious masterpiece (with the help of a few friends).
This production is perfect for all ages – equally as enchanting for adults who have grown up watching the holiday tale as it is for first-timers who are witnessing the holiday magic unfold before their eyes for the first time.
More Info:
A Charlie Brown Christmas
Based on the television special by Bill Melendez and Lee Mendelson
Stage Adaptation by Eric Schaeffer
By Special Arrangement with Arthur Whitelaw and Ruby Persson
Recommended for age 3+ and their families, with special All Ages performances for the whole family
Dates:
November 27-December 31, 2016*
Ticket prices:
Adults: $35
Seniors/Students: $29
Young People (Ages 3-18 years): $18
Location:
Waterfront Theatre
Granville Island
1412 Cartwright St, Vancouver BC
*Due to popular demand, 7 new shows have been added!
