BWW Reviews: CATCH ME IF YOU CAN National Tour in Denver - Clear Skies with a Bit of Turbulance

BWW-Reviews-CATCH-ME-IF-YOU-CAN-National-Tour-in-Denver-experiences-clear-skies-with-a-bit-of-turbulance-20010101 Based on the hit DreamWorks film and the incredible true story that inspired it, the first national tour of the high-flying Broadway musical CATCH ME IF YOU CAN lands in Denver at The Buell Theatre for a limited engagement now until March 10th. CATCH ME IF YOU CAN captures the astonishing true story of Frank Abagnale, Jr., a world-class con artist who passed himself off as a doctor, a lawyer, and a jet pilot-all before the age of 21! With straight-arrow FBI agent Carl Hanratty on Frank's trail, we're off on a jet-setting, cat-and-mouse chase, as a jazzy, swinging-sixties score keeps this adventure in constant motion. In the end, Agent Hanratty learns he and Frank aren't so very different after all, and Frank finds out what happens when love catches up to a man on the run.

This show was an interesting ride. As a fan of the true story and the movie, I wondered how they would tackle the complicated plot and several subplots that filled this boy's complex life. I mean Frank had four talented fake careers that had to be explained and carried out over the course of this show. While the show was full of high energy and campy fun with a set that was a colorful wonderland, it was not without it's flaws. The entire first act felt like the cast was explaining the story instead of just letting it happen. This got to be a little monotonous at times and didn't engage the audience, but rather kept them at arms length. The songs were also a bit repetitive and forgettable. Thankfully the talented Stephen Anthony as Frank Jr. was so charismatic that he kept the energy and the plot flying throughout the first half. Act Two was a magical reversal in fortune, the story flowed on its own, the songs were thought out and quite enjoyable and this really engaged the audience. I only feel sorry for the thirty plus audience members that left at intermission and didn't get to experience the true joy of this production. Also, the characters grew in complexity and drew you in, all building up to a fantastic finale that brought down the house. I only wish that Act One had more of the magic that Act Two so noticeably had. Even with it's flaws, this show was quite an energetic feat and thoroughly enjoyable. Highlight numbers include Someone Else's Skin, Jet Set, Don't Break the Rules, Doctor's Orders, Little Boy be a Man, Seven Wonders, Family Tree, Fly Away, and Good Bye. I must also compliment the stunning set that was filled with bright and vibrant colors (almost a technicolor dreamscape if you will). Having the band onstage as if this were a 1960's variety show was another thoughtful and memorable enhancement to this show.

Stephen Anthony truly let his star shine as Frank Abagnale, Jr. He was instantly likeable and had such a rich, amazing voice with an incredible range. He truly guided this show with great ease and a devilish charm. Someone Else's Skin, Jet Set, Doctor's Orders, and Good Bye were memorable triumphs thanks his amazing performance. His friendly nemesis, Agent Carl Hanratty (wonderfully played by Merritt David Janes) was a great contrast to the golden con man. He had such rich comic timing and gave a well-rounded and stellar performance. I loved Don't Break the Rules and his duet with Frank Sr. (Little Boy, Be a Man) was fun and a crowd favorite. There was such fraternal chemistry between Frank Jr. and his father played by Dominic Fortuna. His downward spiral was heartbreaking to watch and an excellent performance. Another memorable performance was by the talented Aubrey Mae Davis as Frank Jr's love interest Brenda. She brought down the house with the showstopper Fly, Fly Away.

Experience the visual awe that is CATCH ME IF YOU CAN. This high energy show plays the Buell Theatre now until March 10th. For tickets or more information, contact the box office at 303-893-4100 or online at www.denvercenter.org.

Photo Credit: Carol Rosegg

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Michael Mulhern has lived in Denver and been active in it's theater scene for over 10 years. He is originally from Wiesbaden, Germany and graduated with a BFA in Theater Performance from the University of Wisconsin-Superior. Currently he performs in one to two shows a year and is a proud member of the Denver Gay Men's Chorus. Some of Michael's favorite performances include - Lend Me a Tenor, Guys and Dolls, The Shadow Box, Buried Child, and Jeffrey. He is proud to represent Denver and it's growing theater community on BroadwayWorld.com!

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