Brian Farnham stars as the elusive Frank, impishly transforming from forger to faux-pilot and faux-doctor and more. His voice is amazing and his charm and style make us root for him as he cons his way through life. FBI Agent Hanratty is played by Adam Woolsey, likewise an amazing voice and talent, growing in his frustration and ironic admiration for the con’s con-artistry. Bob Purosky and Meghan Eldred shine as Frank’s interesting and troubled parents, giving us a clue as to what sent Frank into his life of crime and escape. Taylor Rupp is impressive as the good nurse who wins Frank’s love and triggers his downfall. Laura Croff and Ben Holzhausen are effective in their brief but important roles as Brenda’s parents.
John Dale Smith’s orchestra is excellent, hiding behind the upper scrim; the set furniture is efficiently whisked on and off; the costumes are wonderfully retro 60’s (yay Kris Maier & crew, and thanks Mary K. Hodges Nees for the “counterfeiting-materials-hats; adorable) The 60’s style is enhanced by the retro hairdos (Rebecca Street).
Director Jane Falion has once again masterminded a terrific show, also designing the simple, versatile set - and her super partner in crime is choreographer Karyn Perry. The dances are flashy and imaginative (with “Don’t Break the Rules” a real show-stopper). The cast has obviously put a lot of work into these numbers: Isaac Orr, Austin Elieff, Zachary Riley, Jeremy Leonard, Aja Jenks, Christine Ciucanu, Sarah Hayner, Kelley Lofton, Kristin Pagels, Nicole Ryan, Jenna Wojdula, Drew Birchmeier, Timothy Lawrence, and Alex Quinlan.
Make your reservations today (517-482-5700.) This hit is building to some sellouts for sure. Parking attendants directed us to the back parking lot behind R.E. Olds - not a bad walk on these warm nights! And be sure to GET YOUR SEASON TICKET AT THE SHOW - and get $10 off AND an Extra Ticket only available at this show. (See page 3 of your program for details.)
http://www.riverwalktheatre.com
And remember THE NUTHOUSE DEALS: just around the corner from Museum Drive/Riverwalk on Michigan Avenue. They have created two specialty cocktails in honor of the show: the “Pan Am” and “The Clipper”. Also, if you show your ticket stub from Catch Me If You Can, you will receive 25% off your meal (excluding drinks) from June 8-18!
(Tip, to avoid the possible parking issues, arrive early (Box office opens two hours before each show) so you can be an early-bird parker in the RWT lot, pick up your Catch Me tickets, and walk the two blocks to the Nuthouse for a pre-show meal/drinks. OR go to the Nuthouse after; it is open until midnight on Thursdays, 2 am. Friday/Saturday, and 11 pm Sundays.
http://nuthousesportsgrill.com