'You're A Good Man, Charlie Brown' To Play In Somers Point

SOMERS POINT, NJ — The Gateway Playhouse will present "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown," a musical featuring Charles M. Schulz's "Peanuts" characters, from Feb. 20 to March 1.

This production marks the beginning of an all-musical MainStage Season for the Somers Point venue.

The musical, originally produced in 1967, includes music and lyrics by Clark Gesner, with a 1999 revision by Andrew Lippa.

Chip Garrison directs the production, his third time leading this particular show. Garrison said that audiences can connect with the characters on a personal level. “There are things that ring true that we can associate with our own childhoods and our own lives,” said Garrison. "And, really, who doesn’t love Charlie Brown and the rest of the ‘Peanuts’ characters?"

The story unfolds in short segments, similar to a comic strip. The music was updated in the 1990s to incorporate a jazzier style.

The cast includes Gateway veterans Mike Moore and Nick Efstatos sharing the role of Charlie Brown, and Kacie Burnett and Mollie Henfey portraying Snoopy. Henry Moore, Music Director, will lead a small pit orchestra live on stage.

Karen Cleighon is the choreographer, with costumes by Phil Pallitto and Karen Sutherland, and set and lighting designed by Peter Avagliano.

“Think of this production as a little bit of escapism, a little bit of nostalgia, definitely a piece that is funny, but it’s also moving emotionally,” Garrison said.

The "Peanuts" franchise celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2025.

Tickets for the musical are $25 and are available for purchase now. Performance dates are 7 p.m. on Feb. 20, 21, 27, and 28. Matinee performances are scheduled for 1 p.m. on Feb. 21 and 28, and 2 p.m. on Feb. 27 and March 1. The Gateway Playhouse is located at 738 Bay Ave. in Somers Point. Further information and ticket purchases can be made at GatewayByTheBay.org.