When I heard “Catch Me If You Can” was coming to Broadway, I was intrigued. Based on the Dreamworks film that was directed by Steven Spielberg in 2002, it starred Leonardo DeCaprio and told the true story of Frank Abagnale, Jr. Abagmale was a con-artist who posed as a doctor, lawyer and pilot. A FBI agent, played by Tom Hanks, in the film, searched for him for years and the two men had a tumultuous yet hilarious relationship.
A blogger’s night was planned well before the closing was planned, and it was tonight. I’m glad I saw, because it turns out the show is ending on September 4th.
Remembering the story, I was curious how the show would be staged, and most certainly, who would play the main characters. Norbert Leo Butz, who plays the FBI agent, Carl Hanratty, is one of my favorite Broadway performers. And of course, there has been much buzz about Aaron Tveit, who has had a break-out performance as Frank Abagnale. And I have to admit, when Tom Wopat appeared on stage as Frank’s father, vivid memories of my sisters and I watching “The Dukes of Hazard” came to mind. Other cast members include Kerry Butler as Brenda Strong, De Benedet as Paula Abagnale, Linda Hart as Carol Strong and Nick Wyman as Roger Strong.
“Catch Me” is set in the 1960s and the costume, sets and dance numbers are certainly reminiscent of that time period. It’s very well choreographed, and all the actors dance, sing and act their hearts out. Still I can’t say I loved this show. Something didn’t quite work for me. I was happiest when Butz was on stage. He nailed his role as the FBI agent with one mission in life: to catch Abagnale. He actually won the Tony Award last year, and it is crystal clear why he did. When he sings “Don’t Break the Rules,” explaining what he likes about his work, the heavens opened up for me. Take a look at his performance on “Letterman” last year and you’ll see what I mean:
I did enjoy the second act more than the first, when we finally meet Frank’s love interest played by Kerry Butler. She’s a very talented singer. I also really enjoyed the big-band in the background, but this play was not one of my favorites.
Disclosure: I was provided with a ticket to this show, but all opinions expressed are my own.
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