Company and Charlie Brown

[MrsSallyAdams]

Company and Charlie Brown#1

Posted: 3/23/23 at 8:50am

I just listened to the “Musicals with Cheese” podcast discuss You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown. I like the show much more than they do.

It got me thinking of the structural parallels to Sondheim’s Company. Bobby’s the depressed, beleaguered Charlie. He performs vignettes with his friends. They have settled into their personalities while he’s still finding himself.
 

Joanne is the bitter, arrogant Lucy. Spouting insults and advice because she thinks she’s seen it all.
 

Both shows end with an optimistic anthem that betrays the cynical tone of the work.

threepanelmusicals.blogspot.com

[dramamama611]

Company and Charlie Brown#2

Posted: 3/23/23 at 9:37am

Interesting, and I see your points.  I've always found that YAGMCB is more connected to my (yes older) generation.  I think it's greatly overlooked!   Maybe too simple by today's standards? 

If we're not having fun, then why are we doing it? These are DISCUSSION boards, not mutual admiration boards. Discussion only occurs when we are willing to hear what others are thinking, regardless of whether it is alignment to our own thoughts.

[Rumpelstiltskin]

Company and Charlie Brown#3

Posted: 3/23/23 at 9:46am

My life would be complete if I saw a production of Charlie Brown where Lucy sang The Ladies Who Lunch.

[MrsSallyAdams]

Company and Charlie Brown#4

Posted: 3/23/23 at 9:50am

“Everybody riiise!   That’ll be five cents please.”

 

Dramarama, I assume the idea of children struggling with depression and psychoanalysis was novel in the 70’s. Whereas now, it’s a given. Charlie Brown could easily sing “Waving Through a Window.”

threepanelmusicals.blogspot.com

[MrsSallyAdams]

Company and Charlie Brown#5

Posted: 3/23/23 at 9:52am

Correction. The 1960s.

threepanelmusicals.blogspot.com