Daily Herald - Somewhat Recommended
"...At times, the exuberance from those pint-size folks seemed to exceed that of the actors, particularly during the first act of director Joe Lehman's revival. Some of the numbers lacked crispness during the opening weekend's Sunday matinee. The problem is the pacing, which I imagine will improve over the course of the run."
Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended
"...Are you looking for a family-friendly musical that will also appeal to adults? Look no further than Citadel Theatre’s production of “You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown,” running now through December 23, 2021. The show, based upon the popular Charles Schulz comic strip, explores the “everyperson” in all of us. What does it mean to be a good person? Should we stand out from the crowd or blend in?"
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...This bright, beautifully acted and professionally produced family production, helmed by innovative Director Joe Lehman, features a stellar cast of talented, young triple threats. Like it’s finale, this musical is pure “Happiness.” It’s a show that’s guaranteed to bring miles of smiles and lots of laughter to the young, as well as the young-at-heart. Charlie Brown and his gang offer the perfect alternative to the typical holiday fare available across Chicagoland. If you miss this magical musical you’ll be sorry, because everyone is going to be raving about “You’re a Good Man Man, Charlie Brown.”"
Buzznews.net - Highly Recommended
"...I really enjoyed myself while taking in this wonderful production that takes us on a much different Peanuts adventure. The humor holds up and still cracks me up. All the jokes I remember from reading the comic strip and books as a kid still draw laughter. This is a toe-tapping, catchy musical production with book, music and lyrics by Clark Gesner that includes solid vocal performances all around. I was very impressed and recommend 'You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown' for a pleasant night of family entertainment that will have you leaving with a big smile. Hats off to director Joe Lehman, as well. The night was thoroughly enjoyable and should be on your list for holiday fun."
Chicago Theater and Arts - Recommended
"...The cast, top-rated with hapless Charlie Brown played by Neil Stratman and Lucy played by Actor Equity member Sierra White, also includes Jimmy Hogan (from Citadel's "Annie) as Schroeder; Marcellus Burt (of Griffin's Ragtime) as Linus and Alley Ellis as Sally. Tuesdai B. Perry is Snoopy. It's hard enough to play a role, much more so, that of a pup."
Chicago On Stage - Highly Recommended
"...Baseball. Tap dancing. Beagles. Philosophy. Piano. Friends. Blankies. These are all things that make me happy but in the complexity of grown-up life, I often forget about them. Until I saw each of these joys in Citadel Theatre's production of You're a Good Man Charlie Brown and as the cast sang about the simple things that made this group of five "kids" and one "dog" happy, I was reminded how these simple things made me happy too! Watching the energetic cast playfully dance, sing, banter and philosophize for two hours in the cozy Citadel brought a joyful warmth to my heart as I felt like I was returning home to see my first in-person professional theater performance since the pandemic began over 18 months ago."
