It’s the ultimate con in CenterPoint’s ‘Catch Me If You Can’
Aug 02, 2025 06:33PM ● By Becky Ginos
Det. Carl Hanratty (Jeremy Botelho) cuffs himself to Frank William Abagnale, Jr. (Drew Dunshee) before he can get away again. Photo by Micah Young
CENTERVILLE—Frank William Abagnale, Jr. seems harmless at first but he’s actually a con artist who fools everyone around him while amassing a fortune through his schemes. It’s true that Frank is a shyster but his charm and quick wit get him by. This is the story of Frank’s wily ways in CenterPoint Theatre’s musical production of “Catch Me If You Can,” based on the 2002 movie of the same name.
His life of crime began at the age of 15 when he ran up his father’s gas credit card. He and his dad shared a close relationship, with him often encouraging Frank to find ways to skirt the system as he tried to stay one step ahead of the IRS.
When Frank’s parents split up he couldn’t choose between them so instead he found his own way to get by through forgery, deceit and impersonations. Frank managed to make people believe that he was a lawyer, doctor and airline pilot.
In the meantime, Frank was being pursued by dogged Police Detective Carl Hanratty who is hot on his trail and determined to bring him to justice.
Only when Frank finds love does he decide to stop his life of crime and settle down. However, finding that isn’t so easy – there’s still a price to pay.
The show is filled with great music and fun dance numbers and the cast is excellent. Drew Dunshee (MWF) steps right into the role of Frank, making the scam artist just loveable enough to have the audience rooting for him. He also has a wonderful voice.
David Johnson as Frank Abagnale Sr. (MWF) plays off of Frank Jr.’s enthusiasm to be like his father until he falls on hard times and the tables are turned and his son is the one looking after him. The pair has some great songs together.
Det. Carl Hanratty (Jeremy Botelho, MWF) has made it his mission to catch Frank as the two play cat and mouse. Botelho has a fantastic voice and stands out whenever he’s on stage. The rest of the cast brings the story all together as Frank’s world intersects with each character.
In the end, the story is about finding your place in the world, the consequences of your actions and the power of redemption.
Catch Me If You Can runs through Aug. 19, Monday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with Saturday matinees. Ticket prices range from $27-$42 and can be purchased online at https://centerpointtheatre.org/ or at the Box Office, 801-298-1302. CenterPoint is located at 525 North 400 West, Centerville.
