Reviews: Catch Me If You Can at Quince Orchard High School
Written by Grace Mueller of Our Lady of Good Counsel High School
Please fasten your seatbelts and prepare for takeoff as students at Quince Orchard High School present Catch Me if You Can. Students soared to new heights in this splendidly mischievous musical that follows young conman Frank Abagnale Jr. throughout his devious career of deception. The musical is based on the 2002 film and autobiography of Frank Abagnale Junior. Premiering on Broadway in 2011, it soon won Tony Awards and became a classic show to audiences everywhere. Set in the 1960s, Frank Abagnale Jr. has a difficult childhood that leads to his pursuit as a conman, landing him in trouble with the FBI. The production follows his antics, romances, and downfall while providing the audience with laughter and suspense.
Myles Rathke shone on stage as Frank Abagnale Jr. Rathke's vocal control over tenor notes soared across the stage while embodying charming wit to Abagnale's character. His dynamic acting brought life to the stage through his well-executed grief, charisma, and romance. His stage presence was undeniable, as was his chemistry with each actor. Speaking of chemistry, Katie Musick delivered a staggering performance as Brenda Strong, leaving the audience speechless with her tremendously impressive vocals. In "Fly, Fly away" Her physicality, facial expressions, and powerful mix belt filled each corner of the auditorium with a resounding narrative of love long-lost.
Mischa Capacillo filled the large shoes of Paula Abagnale and embraced the character's sensuality through her enchanting accent and poised posture. With each note, she bewitched the audience in "Don't be a stranger" and tangoed her way into the cherished femme-fatale narrative.
Nate Kauffman, Karolina Kellogg, and Sophie Levine laid the foundation of the show with their commendable ensemble. Each number was sharp, polished, and synchronized. The ensemble executed difficult choreography well while still making strong acting choices, truly bringing an immersive experience to each audience member.
The costumes, led by Audrina Allen, Mimi Bozic, and their costumes team did a fantastic job creating cohesive, 1960s-accurate outfits for each scene. The color palettes were distinct, costumes pristine, and individualized without detracting from the focal points on stage. Also worthy of lauds is the lighting crew, led by Maddie Schilly, Charlotte Hmel, and the lights team. The utilization of the cyc was effective in the storytelling and did an excellent job at setting the tone for each astounding number. The follow spots were tight, and each lighting cue was executed with commendable precision.
Each component of this production worked seamlessly together both on and off stage. Each lead was powerful, comedic, and demonstrated a wide range of elements. The ensemble was exact, meticulous, and involved, undoubtedly because of the tireless efforts of student choreographers. Technical elements were precise, meticulous, and brought the wonderfully eccentric world of wild antics to life.
Quince Orchard brought the zany world of Frank Abagnale Jr to life and left the audience eager to "live their life in living color."
Written by Emilie Fiske of South Lakes High School
When running from the past seems like the only safe option, assuming a new identity can feel like a free ticket out. However, in Quince Orchard Theatre's thrilling yet heartwarming production of Catch Me If You Can, love and true human connection were the steadying force that brought the chase to a close.
Based on the 2002 Spielberg movie of the same name, Catch Me If You Can explores themes of identity, family dynamics, and the literal and figurative chase for something greater after running from a broken home. The true story -- based on a 1970s autobiography -- follows young Frank Abagnale Jr. as he lies his way through several professional careers, all the while hunted by the FBI's Carl Hanratty for check fraud and impersonation. Torn between two parents he loves and adores, Frank is determined to achieve success... through any means necessary.
Myles Rathke led the cast as Frank Abagnale Jr. with an effortlessly smooth persona and soft, reflective vocals. Rathke's performance was only elevated by scene partner Katie Musick as Brenda Strong, Frank's first true love. Musick's earnest nature and stunning vocals, with a strong belt and even tone, brought a certain authenticity to the dynamic as a grounding presence and Frank's tether to reality. Opposite, Timo Silberman as Agent Carl Hanratty impressed with distinctive vocal characterization, maintaining a cynically gruff tone through both acting and song, as Hanratty gradually descended into madness in pursuit of finally catching Frank.
The production featured several standout ensembles, including the Stewardesses in Jet Set who embodied the classically flirtatious and coy 1960s pin-up girl, and the quartet of FBI agents whose comedic timing individually and as a group brought a genial, slapstick nature to the performance. Behind each ensemble's captivating execution of movement were choreographers Nate Kauffman, Karolina Kellogg, and Sophie Levine, who utilized popular dance styles from the era, with Fosse-inspired moves rich with symbolism.
The costumes and lighting were two remarkable tech elements of the production, working in tandem with a clever use of color theory to distinguish character relationships and tension throughout the show. Quince Orchard's Costumes Crew (Audrina Allen, Mimi Bozic, and the Costume Team) executed a thoughtful, detailed, and historically accurate vision, from handmade nurse and flight attendant uniforms to go-go boots on featured dancers. The crew also assisted in numerous quick changes, with ensemble members each sporting a new outfit with every major song. The Lighting Crew (Maddie Schully, Charlotte Hmel, and the Lighting Team) lit the backdrop of the stage in all red during Hanratty's scenes, blue during Frank's, and purple when the two clashed or interacted. Additionally, they assisted the Set Team (Luke Atkinson, Emma Londono, Maddie Schully) with LED lights on a moving staircase, and created flashing lights timed to match with the Jet-Setters' kick line.
At the end of the day, Quince Orchard's take on the con artist's musical comedy was upbeat, fun, and extremely thoughtful from start to finish. It was slick, entertaining and perfectly paced to charm its way into even the toughest criminal's heart.