Review: Snoopy! at Theatre for Young America.

Our family loves the Peanuts! Charlie Brown & the Gang have become a part of our holiday traditions with viewings of the classic cartoons. Snoopy is the highlight of a visit to Worlds of Fun and this year, it just got better with the addition of Planet Snoopy! So, my children were very excited to see Snoopy! live on stage at Theatre for Young America.

I grew up watching Theatre for Young America's productions and have many fond childhood memories of their shows, my favorite being "The Best Christmas Pageant Ever", which will return for Christmas 2012! Using the simplest of props, Theatre for Young America truly captivates the imagination of children with their storytelling. Snoopy! lived up to our expectations.

Like vignettes straight from the comic strips, the cast portrayed short scenes capturing many of our favorite Peanuts moments. Our favorite characters: Charlie, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, Sally and Woodstock revisited the Great Pumpkin, the school classroom, the changing of the seasons, Lucy's psychiatric "lemonade stand," Snoopy's typing away at manuscripts atop his doghouse, the washing of Linus' beloved blanket, and even "Ewwwww! Dog Lips!". But, the absolute favorite scene for our family was the kids' visit to the movies where "Jaws" came to life on stage scaring the gang with a hysterical surprise of funny costuming and props. The show also includes many musical numbers with messages of being the best you can be, friendship, and self esteem.

One of the highlights of a show at Theatre for Young America is a chance to ask questions of the cast after the show in order to learn a little more about the production. After the show, we were able to shake hands with all the cast members and take photos.

The show is great for young children and parents who grew up loving the Schulz comic strips. You can catch Snoopy! at Union Station through July 2. For more information on Snoopy!, see the Theatre for Young America website.

BONUS TIP: While you're there, walk The Link to Crown Center where you can enjoy tons of FREE FUN! Read our tips for Summer Fun at Crown Center.

Written by Kristina Light