Aliso Niguel Theatre Company Presents ‘The True Story Of A Real Fake’
“Catch Me If You Can” will be performed three more nights, Thursday April 30th, Friday May 1, and Saturday May 2; 7 pm.
You won’t want to miss this fast paced, clever and funny musical derived from the true story of Frank Abagnale, Jr.
A well received motion picture staring Leonardo Di Caprio being chased by Tom Hanks’ Carl Hanratty was part of the inspiration for a musical version of the story. The real life Frank Abagnale co-authored a book by the same name explaining his need to prove himself to his father, through various crimes and lies.
Daniel Hardwick, a junior at ANHS plays the part of Frank Jr. Daniel is a rare talent indeed. His abilities seem to grow with every production he is in. Certainly his future as an actor/performer looks very bright. From the first ten minutes of the play you will be in awe at the command this young man has of the stage and his role. He is stunningly adept as a singer , what a beautiful voice! With ease and grace he moves seamlessly around the stage.
Justin Benbrook as Carl Hanratty clearly understands his role. He is hilarious as the earnest and focused yet compassionate detective. Danny Cristofara as Frank Sr. and Camryn Graves as Paula Abagnale make a beautiful and compelling couple as Frank Jr.s parents. Kaylee Hepburn as Brenda Strong delivers an amazing solo in Act II.
Director’s Note – Mr. Golden
“Woven within the glamorous costumes and catchy melodies lies a softer, more poignant story. Peel away the artifice and you are left with a frightened boy who just wants a home, a family and someone to love him”
For the stage musical, the author and composers opted to transform the story into another medium of the period, – television. For those too young to have experienced the heyday of television variety shows of the 1960s such as Hullaballoo, Shindig, and the Ed Sullivan Show, you are in for a retro-trip. These shows were designed to display some of the era’s top musical acts, show off the talented dancers and mix in some other variety acts along the way. These shows were events to watch, being performed in front of a live studio audience and viewed in millions of homes. This medium is particularly appropriate for Frank Abagnale’s story as it is grounded in the showy style these variety shows thrived on. So as Hullaballoo’s audience did, – sit back and enjoy the musical thrill ride the production numbers offer.
Aliso Niguel High School Proudly Presents “Catch Me If You Can” Starring;
Daniel Hardwick as Frank Abagnale Jr. – This is Daniel Hardwick’s 6th show with the Company. He is a junior and plans to continue theatre for the rest of his High School career. He is overjoyed to be playing this part as it is his dream role! He’d like to thank his sister Andrea for introducing him to theatre and this wonderful company!
Danny Cristofaro as Frank Abagnale Sr. – Danny is a junior this year and CMIYC is his fourth production with ANHS. This is one of his favorite musicals and he feels #blessed to be able to perform some of his favorite numbers on stage. Danny would like to thank his friends, family, and company for supporting his theatrics.
Justin Benbrook as Carl Hanratty – Justin is utterly ecstatic to be in his fourth show with ANTC, and has had such a wonderful time working with an amazing cast and crew. He has learned and grown so much as an actor through this musical, and hopes everyone enjoys it! Big thanks to all the support from friends and family!
Susan Espenschied
Publisher/ Editor
Aliso Laguna News
