“Catch Me If You Can” Takes Off at USF

By: Toby Knutson

“Unlike a fairy tale, the parable provides no happy ending. Instead, it leaves us face to face with
one of life’s hardest spiritual choices: to trust or not to trust in God’s all-forgiving love.”
~Henri J.M. Nouwen, The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming

The story of Frank Abagnale Jr. is one of constantly running away from life’s struggles and the endless search to find something fulfilling, focusing his identity (or multiple identities) on himself or things that are not stable. This struggle to find identity and running away from life’s tribulations is something that most, if not all, people can relate to one way or another. Catch Me If You Can roared onto the Meredith stage March 25, 26, 27, and 28. Inspired by the true-story of teenager Frank Abagnale Jr., who runs away from home and successfully impersonates several professionals – including a pilot, doctor, and lawyer – while cashing millions of dollars in forged checks. As Frank enjoys the thrill of deception and fame, determined FBI agent Carl Hanratty relentlessly tracks him across the country. Beneath the flashy cons and high-energy musical numbers, the story explores Frank’s longing for family and stability after his parents’ divorce. Alecia Juelfs, the Assistant Professor of Theater, and the theater program director here at USF, said she hopes people who come see the show don’t miss the good news of the mercy that is shown in the story. “I’ve been praying that people who may be struggling with some kind of sin, that it becomes known to them,” Juelfs said. While Frank lives out his life in sin, he does eventually face consequences. Just like with the Prodigal Son, we see Frank’s obedience in turning away from the earthly pressures and owning up to his sin. Carl Hanratty shows him grace by getting him out of jail early to come work at the F.B.I.. Frank is saved from the cycle of detriment that he is in and given the opportunity to do good with it. “You can be at your lowest point and still be met with this new thing that gives you hope that you didn’t know was possible,” said Juelfs. The humanity we see in Frank Jr. is something that people can see reflected in themselves. Nathan Elias, a senior Music Performance major, plays the role of Frank Abagnale Jr. in the musical. “He’s just flying by the seat of his pants and wanting everything to just work out and doing everything in his abilities to make it work the way he wants,” says Elias. “I feel that’s a very human emotion of wanting things to be okay. I think that’s the part I relate to the most.” While the show carries meaningful themes of grace, identity, and redemption, Juelfs also describes the production as a large theatrical spectacle that brings Frank’s wild journey to life. From more lights, to a bigger set, to the orchestra being onstage, the production embraces the full spectacle of musical theatre, creating an energetic and visually exciting experience for the audience. “The story lends to it because it breaks the fourth wall a lot,” Juelfs said. “Allowing people a peek behind the curtain is fun, which we haven’t always done in a musical.” For Elias, the production also carries special significance as it marks the final performance of his college theatre career. “I’m excited to really go out with a bang,” says Elias. “This show is absolutely going to be a spectacle, and I’m very much looking forward to being a part of that.