By: Caden Choi
This past October, Orange Lutheran High’s theater program gained its pilot wings. Over the course of 5 incredible performances of Catch Me If You Can from October 23-26, OLu students learned about the importance of gratitude and community. Directed by Chelsey Everhart, the show featured a live orchestra, melodic vocals, and Fosse-inspired choreo. The musical dramatizes the true tale of Frank Abagnale Jr., a swindler who passes himself off as a lawyer, doctor, pilot, under the pseudonym, Pan Am. With a 60’s twist, Catch Me If You Can follows Frank’s journey to discovering a shifting identity, wavering relationships, and the dangers of living too close to the edge.
The month of November celebrates the value of thankfulness and maintaining joy amidst a season of change. According to cast members, gratitude has made its rounds both onstage and behind the scenes. Emily Houssels, who played Carol Strong, reflects on her thankfulness for “…Miss Everhart and the entire crew who helped with the show…” She feels grateful towards her “…fellow cast mates who supported and helped run through lines and make choices for the stage.”
On a similar note, Luke Ortloff, portraying the ‘nerd,’ reflects on his gratitude for the rehearsal process. “…When the lights, sounds, and acting came together, it was the first time everything really clicked, and showed how much work everyone had put in.” Luke reminisces on the challenges of learning “The quick changes and choreography,” but is thankful that those momentary hardships “made [the cast] work harder and grow closer…”
Cast member Brogan Driscoll states Catch Me If You Can explores themes of thankfulness through the message of “change, forgiveness, and the hope that comes with transformation.” Brogan reflects on his role as Agent Branton and his character’s experience with redemption. “As an agent, Branton sees the mistakes Frank makes, but he also witnesses his growth… I’m thankful for the reminder that no one is beyond redemption and that hope and grace are always possible when we trust God’s plan for our story.”
Photo Credits: Orange Lutheran High School (Pixieset Gallery)
