Catch Me If You Can to Premiere at Willoughby
Based on the hit film that starred a young Leonardo DiCaprio and Hollywood veteran Tom Hanks, Catch Me If You Can – The Musical played on Broadway in 2011 and was nominated for 4 TONY Awards including Best Musical.
Sydneysiders now have the chance to witness the musical for the first time when Willoughby Theatre Company hosts the NSW Premiere of the show from May 20, 2016 at the Concourse in Chatswood.
But the show, with music by the team behind Hairspray, is not just based on Hollywood fiction, but the incredible true story of Frank Abagnale Jnr - a man who outsmarted the FBI in the 60s after running away from home at an early age.
“Catch Me If You Can, is a high-flying musical comedy about chasing your dreams and not getting caught,” said Director Adam Haynes.
“In a short space of time Frank led a life many a young man would be envious of, posing amongst other things as a pilot and a doctor and getting away with it.
“The musical brings to life this unbelievable story with a score mixed with memorable jazz inspired and Broadway musical melodies. These tunes are coupled with sensational dance sequences choreographed by Janina Hamerlok, that feature air hostesses, nurses and FBI agents, as Frank moves from one scam to another,” added Adam Haynes.
The show features well-known Willoughby performers as well some of Sydney Community Theatre’s most familiar faces. Shaun Young (Emmett in Legally Blonde) plays Frank Jnr with Peter Meredith (Warner in Legally Blonde; Judas in Jesus Chris Superstar and Enjorlas in Les Misérables) as FBI Agent Carl Hanratty.
Geoff Stone takes on the role of Frank's dad. Geoff is making his debut with Willoughby Theatre Company, but it's not the first time he’s created roles on the community theatre stage in Sydney with recent performances including Caractacus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and King Arthur in Spamalot.
Roslyn Howell whose stage credits include the original Australian tours of Sugar Babies and Starlight Express, as well as recent roles in Gypsy and Kiss of the Spider Woman takes on the role of Frank's mum Paula. Lexy de Swatrz (Branda Strong), Julianne Horne and Craig Scott (Carol and Roger Strong), round out the principal cast and are joined on stage by a cast of over 50!
“This gem of a musical is full of surprises, both in the songs and the sheer pleasure it brings to the audience. The set alone, using the latest in theatrical digital technology, is worth the price of a ticket alone. The band is also positioned on stage, led by our talented Musical Director Alex Ash, and filled with some of Sydney’s most recognised musicians,” said Willoughby Theatre Company President Tom Sweeney.
“Willoughby Theatre Company, now approaching 60 years providing high-end top quality entertainment to lovers of musical theatre, will not disappoint with this production following on from 2015 sell-out seasons of Legally Blonde and Evita,” concluded Tom Sweeney.
Catch Me If You Can – The Musical will run at the Concourse Theatre in Chatswood for 10 performances only from May 20-29. Book Online at www.willoughbytheatreco.com.au or phone the Concourse Box Office on +61 2 8075 8111
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