“The only reason this story happens is because Frank is in the middle of an awful divorce and can’t handle the pressure it puts on him,” said Jonathan Evans, who portrays Frank (memorably played on screen by Leonardo DiCaprio). “So, deciding to run away seems like the best solution to a 16-year-old. Frank is also trying to help his dad get things back to the way they were. He just wants a second chance with his family and doesn’t seem to let anything get in the way.”
Although Frank relishes in sneaky, deceptive behavior, Evans, appearing opposite Steve Voris as Hanratty, particularly hopes to infuse sympathy and understanding into the character nonetheless.
“On paper, Frank is a con man but there’s a lot more to this story,” he said. “I hope I can portray him in a way that really makes him a likable character. Whether or not people agree with what he’s done, I hope they can at least understand why he did it and on some level can empathize with him.”
“This show isn’t family-oriented but it is about family,” added director Donna Cason. “It’s about learning lessons the hard way. This production also allows Playhouse South to embrace risk while attempting to reach a wider audience. If we’re going to grow as a theater we have to take risks. But I really love this show. It has a great ‘60s appeal and a lot of fun music ranging from blues to jazz. The characterizations are also very strong.”
The score notably includes such vibrant numbers as “Live in Living Color,” “Jet Set,” “Don’t Break the Rules,” “Doctor’s Orders,” and “Fly, Fly Away.”
The Broadway production received four Tony Award nominations including Best Musical, specifically winning Best Actor in a Musical for Norbert Leo Butz as Hanratty.
WANT TO GO?
What: "Catch Me If You Can"
Where: Playhouse South, Clark Haines Theatre (Kettering Board of Education Building) 3750 Far Hills Ave., Kettering
When: May 5-14; 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays
Cost: $15 adults; $13 seniors and military; $8 students
Tickets: Call 1-888-262-3792 or visit www.playhousesouth.org
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