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ACCLAIMED Nelson Mandela Bay theatre personality Robin Williams seems to have the magic touch. Already this year she can boast the stage success of the Theodor Herzl production Funny Girl, which she directed. She even had time to get back to basics by taking up the roll of Mrs Higgins in the equally well-received My Fair Lady.

Now, the Port Elizabeth Musical and Dramatic Society (Pemads) has roped her in for their final production of the year, the off-the-wall Broadway show You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown.

The show, which kicked off this week and runs until December 12, has a principal cast of just six and an ensemble cast of three – small by the standards of most shows so far this year. But it is in the simplicity of the show – the small cast and minimalist set design – that Williams manages to extract the kind of gripping performances from the cast which leaves audiences begging for more.

The musical opens with a colourful and oversized set and the entire cast silhouetted on stage, coming alive in song as the spotlight hits them. The oversized props worked well, allowing the audience to become immersed in the imaginary world of eight children and their pet dog.

The show looks at a day in the lives of the characters, who despite their youth – most are meant to be no older than five – are worldly wise.

Linus’s insecurities juxtaposed with his philosophical mantras are hilarious, while Lucy’s demanding yet ultimately caring personality transcends all ages.

From the outset Anton Steyn, as Charlie Brown, conveys accurately the angst and self-doubt which made Shulz’s character so popular. It is in this intimate performance that each accomplished cast member is able to shine.

Steyn’s worried eyes, hunched shoulders and defeated demeanour speak volumes before he’s even uttered a word. But an actor is nothing without the rest of the cast and each character has an integral role in the show – including the beloved Snoopy (Reyn ffoulkes) and his snide one-liners to his owners.

While Lynn Thomson shines as anarchic Sally, Andile Magxaki as musical protege Schroeder and Matthew Berry as the personable Linus, it is Rebecca Hartle as Lucy who steals the show.

Hartle manages to encapsulate Lucy’s shrill and overpowering personality without detracting from her fellow cast-members.

Kudos must also go out to the musical direction under Debbie Everard, choreography under Candice Johnson and John Davies for the set design.

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown is a show young and old will enjoy.

You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown, showing at the Little Theatre until December 12. Directed by Robin Williams and starring Reyn ffoulkes and Anton Steyn. Tickets available at the Walmer Park information kiosk.

WIN!

Five double tickets for next Saturday’s show are up for grabs. To enter, SMS “Charlie” to 40881 before noon on Tuesday. SMS’s cost R3 each and errors will be billed. Free minutes do not apply. Winners will be notified telephonically.