Review: The WORLD ACCORDING TO SNOOPY Is a True Regal for the Beagle

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO SNOOPY simply takes the cake: or shall I say the bone. This revised version of The Musical Snoopy is quite a reflection of College Theater gone better. Produced by the Texas State University Department of Theatre and Dance, the show moves at a pace that is fun, funny and heartfelt. Even if one is not a fan of Charles M.Schulz comic strip, Peanuts, the director of this production, Kaitlin Hopkins, makes sure that audience members of all ages are engaged at some point through this delightful work of art.

The show set is a very modern set design by Michelle Ney.There is a tree with lightboxes that gives the stage lots of different color. The cast also uses additional lightboxes as props. Snoopy's doghouse complimented the stage perfectly with its share of lights as well. Sally Rath's costume designs charmed the set perfectly. Lots of color and adolescent flair: as we all remember from the Peanuts.

The characters are very easy to identify on stage based on the great acting. Headed by Ryne Nardecchia's passionate portrayal of Snoopy and Nick Eibler's limber and swift Woodstock, and the ever aggressive Lucy, played by Maggie Bera, these actors are all committed. The sister brother combo of Charlie and Sally Brown, played by Grayson Samuels and Raegan Roberts, along with Peppermint Patty played by Adria Swan and Linus Van Pelt, played by Ty Hunter Taylor, this cast gives the audience stellar yet simple grandure,that both kids and adults will both enjoy.

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO SNOOPY is a winner. Hopkins definitely should be proud of her students and her program at Texas State in San Marcos, TX.From the music of Larry Grossman to the orchestrations of Greg Bolin, this production in association with Theatre Under The Stars/Humphreys School of Musical Theatre, is just what the great pumpkin ordered. If you ever were a kid and if you ever were a Peanuts fan, this show was made especially for you.

THE WORLD ACCORDING TO SNOOPY continues through June 18th at The Hobby Centers Zilkha Hall, 800 Bagby St.For tickets call 713-315-2525 or visit www.thehobbycenter.org.