catch me if you can

A&E 34

This spring, the Oakton Theatre Department is set to perform an upbeat, funny musical entitled “Catch Me if you Can.” You may recognize the title from the book, which was later turned into the 2002 movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio. All three forms of this story follow Frank Abagnale Jr( in our version played by Jonny Geerdes and Max Branciforte) after he runs away from home. After posing as a pilot, doctor, and lawyer, and forging checks to do so, he is eventually discovered by FBI agent Carl Hanratty (played by Joe Malone) who pursues him across the country. This show is extremely dance heavy, and so a professional choreographer was brought in to add an extra flair. Ahmad Matty has choreographed a number of impressive shows besides our wonderful Catch Me if You Can. “I have choreographed so many projects, especially this season, it’s hard to just name a few,” He has worked with a youth theatre company called “Acting for Young People,” for many years, as well as assisting with a number of other high school shows. There are roughly 70 people in this dance heavy show, and with no breaks during rehearsal, everyone is putting their all into making this performance amazing. Matty explains that in terms of actually learning the choreography, they are very close to done. However “that’s just the first phase of things. Usually, once everything is complete, there is a whole lot of cleaning that needs to happen. It’s my favorite part, in a way, because it’s down to details.” The rehearsal week typically begins with a dance rehearsal or review on Monday, and then smaller rehearsals for the rest of the week, typically vocal or working on staging, explained Head of marketing and publicity, Samba Pathak. He is in charge of many things, including but not limited to: designing the playbills, contacting reporters for articles, writing/publishing press releases, managing social media posts, and more. In short, he is in charge of many of the efforts that no one ever thinks about, but are completely necessary for a production’s success. The performance date is approaching quickly, and with so much still to do, it is, of course, not the most relaxed environment. It does help, however, that this musical is so lighthearted and fun. “I would love for everyone to leave the show feeling lighter. This is broadway at its best...I hope everyone leaves the show feeling like they want to get up and dance!” So, mark your calendars! On May 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 10 at 7 p.m. in the Oakton Auditorium, with tickets going on sale on April 12th. So many people have worked so hard to make this show one to remember, so get ready for a fun show full of energy!

zoe siamon

staff writer