Photos by Melissa Brand

The Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) 2012-2013 theatre season opens on a cheerful note with “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” opening Oct. 10, 2012 in the Stage Center Theatre. Charlie Brown has been iconic and loved for generations, making this production a good time for everyone.
In the beginning of the play, the Peanuts gang tells Charlie Brown how they feel about him and say that he is a good man. However, Charlie Brown sets out on a musical mission to find out if he is truly as good as his friends thinks he is. After a long search and multiple musical numbers, Charlie Brown realizes that being a good man is more about finding inner happiness and always striving to do well.
NEIU alum and instructor Lisa Cantwell directs this musical, starring Isaac Samuleson as Charlie Brown. Other characters include Andrew Berlien as Linus Van Pelt, Arin Mulvaney as Lucy Van Pelt, Ellen Cribbs as Sally Brown, Jesus Matta as Schroeder and Jill Matel as Snoopy.  They are joined by an ensemble made up of Sarah Beckette, Nickolena Sellen, Michael Slas and Lily Stephens.  “It is a testament to the talent, exuberance and dedication of this wonderful cast and crew that this production is so fun to watch,” Cantwell said. “They have really captured the essence of this world and these characters and they make it look so easy.  I am thrilled to collaborate with such a fantastic team.”  Cantwell has directed other projects such as, “How He Lied to Her Husband,” “Totally RED!,” “Dead Man’s Cell Phone,” “The Love for Three Oranges,” “The Odd Couple” and “A Toby Show.”
The set includes many props including Schroder’s piano and Snoopy’s doghouse, both constructed by the current Theatre Practicum class. In this lively musical, Charlie Brown shares his troubles with everything from no-one liking him, to not receiving any valentines.
The dates for the show are Oct. 10 – 12 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 13 at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Due to limited show times and seating, reservations are recommended and can be made by calling 773-442-4274. Ticket prices are as follows: NEIU students, faculty and staff – Free, General Admission – $10, Senior Citizens, NEIU Alumni and Students other than NEIU – $8 Children 6 to 12 – $6