Fine Arts Network presents 'Catch Me If You Can' at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater

Ava Sarnowski

Writer

Produced by resident theater company, Fine Arts Network, the musical "Catch Me If You Can" will be playing for three weekends at the Old Town Temecula Community Theater, through Sunday, Oct. 29. The production will also be backed by a full live orchestra onstage, alongside the performers, creating a jazz-style event.

"Catch Me If You Can" follows Frank, a runaway teenager who flees from his unhappy, broken home. He embarks on a new adventure, conning people under various identities including an airplane pilot, doctor, lawyer and more.

At its heart, it tells the story of a lonesome boy looking for his place within the world, as he narrates his life, or version of the truth, on a dance-heavy variety television show within the 1960s.

The story is based on one of the most famous con artists in history, with a book written by Terrence McNally, Tony Award-winner and a theatrical score created by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

Joey Arreola, the artistic and show director, expresses that the show was picked for the recognition and reputation of Steven Spielberg's 2002 film, which starred Leonardo DiCaprio as Frank Abagnale Jr., and Tom Hanks as Carl Hanratty.

Embodying these roles for Fine Arts Network's production include Brandon Gonzales as Frank Jr. and Thomas Fisk as Hanratty. Arreola said the show was a hidden gem of the musical theater genre, one with "fantastic" music and "incredible" dancing. He further elaborates that the show is based on real-life individuals, who each lived dynamic lives during one of the greatest times in history.

Rounding out the creative team includes Rachel Pfeifer Green as musical director, Stephanie Polka as choreographer and Scott Merrin conducting the Fine Arts Network Orchestra. Fine Arts Network is also introducing Tyler Stern as part of FAN's new Educational Internship Program as the assistant director.

Ticket prices include $33 for orchestra, $31 for parterre, $29 for balcony and $20 for group tickets. Said parties with 10 attendees or more, are to contact the ticket office. Adults 65+ years of age, military, students and children will be discounted. Parental discretion is advised, as the show has adult language. To learn more about the "Catch Me If You Can" dates, or to purchase tickets, visit http://www.temeculatheater.org.