Catch Me If You Can at Shenandoah Conservatory A Production Elevated by Broadway Leadership
Walking into the Ohrstrom Bryant Theatre for Catch Me If You Can feels less like attending a university production and more like stepping into a fully realized professional show already in motion. The lights settle, the orchestra breathes in unison, and from the first moments it becomes clear that this is not simply a student performance. It is a production shaped by industry level leadership, detailed craftsmanship, and a company operating with intention.
Shenandoah Conservatory’s presentation of Catch Me If You Can brings the fast moving story of Frank Abagnale Jr. to life with precision and energy. Based on the hit film and Broadway musical with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman, the show demands charisma, vocal control, sharp choreography, and ensemble discipline. It is a production that lives in its pacing, and that pacing reflects the leadership behind it.
One of the most compelling elements of this production is the presence of Guest Director and Choreographer Angie Schworer. It is always interesting to see who Shenandoah can bring in to guest direct, and the Conservatory consistently attracts working professionals who elevate the rehearsal room immediately. Schworer’s Broadway experience brings a professional rhythm to the production. Movement feels intentional. Comedy lands with clarity. Transitions are tight. When a Broadway veteran steps into a university environment, expectations shift upward, and the results are visible on stage.
Supporting the production musically is Patrick Brady as Music Director and Conductor, ensuring the score maintains its swing and theatrical drive. Scenic design by R. Eric Stone, costume design by Shelbi Wilkin, wig design and scenic artistry by Grayson Miller, co lighting design by Zoe Anderson and Andrew Carson, sound design by Emmalee “Stapes” Stapleton, and technical direction by David Steinmetz all work together to create a visually cohesive environment. Katherine Neff serves as Production Stage Manager, with production oversight by John Bonanni as Production Manager.
The cast carries the production with confidence and range.
Bryce Williamson leads as Frank Abagnale Jr., with Giovanni Santoro appearing as Agent Branton and understudy for Frank Sr. Jaxon Allison takes on Agent Dollar and understudies Carl Hanratty, while Jayson Goldner portrays Agent Carl Hanratty. Ryan Bagnolati Camargo appears as Agent Cod. Riley Broshears performs as Frank Abagnale Sr., alongside Payton Gonzalez as Paula Abagnale. Emerson Riley plays Brenda Strong, with Charlie Welch as Roger Strong and Railroad Agent. Emily Adams appears as Carol Strong.
The ensemble drives the energy of the show. Gabriella Estabrook performs in the ensemble and as Nurse and Jane the Stewardess, understudying Brenda. Philly Kang, Reagan Kern, Quinlan King as Jack Barnes, Armando Llanes Aviles understudying Roger Strong, Linnea McKinney as Stewardess, Mia Nelson, Madi Redecker as Cheryl Ann, Ella Jo Reinhart as Cindy and understudy for Paula, Lydia Rouse, Emily Rubino as Mindy, Kira Sledge as Stewardess, Evan Smith, Dylan Stukenberg, Walker Wallace as Pan Am Executive, and Avery Whitacre all contribute to the layered ensemble work that keeps the production moving.
The swing and dance leadership roles are equally critical. Daniel Bosch serves as Swing. Kyla Carter and Jacob Kim serve as Swing and Dance Captains. Dalaney Lange is also Swing. Aidan Espinosa understudies Frank Jr.
Behind the scenes, the production team shapes the experience audiences see. Helena Gryder assists in scenic design. Gabrielle Sehl assists in costume design. Harley Craun serves as Assistant Wig Designer and Wardrobe Supervisor. Andrew Carson acts as Lighting Design Mentor, with Rhys Utterback as Assistant Lighting Designer and Konnor Sheffield Colbert as Spotlight Operator. David Steinmetz also serves as Technical Direction Mentor, supported by Chloe Vaughn as Assistant Technical Director. Bethany Kasperek works as Scenic Charge Artist, with Lucas Weber as Scenic Artist. John Bonanni serves as Stage Management Mentor, with Kaeleigh Howlett and Isebella Miller as Assistant Stage Managers. Angelina Park supervises props, and Sky Caddell supervises weapons. Nicholas Yovina acts as Sound Design Mentor, with Jake Tuttle as Audio 2. Emerson Stark serves as Assistant Production Manager, and Ellary Hileman as Production Assistant. Carter Perryman performs on Keyboard 1 and rehearsal piano while handling music copying. Zoie Foster performs on Keyboard 2 and serves as rehearsal pianist and music copyist. Taya Burns works wardrobe crew, with Eliana Bender, Joseph Cecil, and Sofi Hemmens as run crew.
The depth of this company demonstrates what makes Shenandoah productions compelling. The institution does not simply mount shows. It builds professional environments for developing artists. The guest director element reinforces that commitment. Bringing in Broadway leadership raises standards and connects students directly to industry practice.
Productions of this scale deserve to be preserved with care. The months of rehearsal, the collaboration between cast and crew, and the level of artistry on display represent work that extends far beyond a single performance run.
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If your organization is producing a theatrical performance, concert, or live event and wants it documented professionally, get in touch with us today. Let’s preserve the work your team has built with dedication and excellence.