A live band, a large cast, and the true story of America's most charming con artist hit the stage at Pentacle Theatre when "Catch Me If You Can" opens Friday, Aug. 14.
The Tony-nominated musical follows Frank Abagnale Jr., who posed as an airline pilot, doctor, and lawyer while forging $2.5 million in checks. The show blends comedy and drama with a jazzy score by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman, with a book by Terrence McNally.
Director Wendy Boyack, who holds a degree in musical theater direction and taught before turning to directing at Pentacle, said she sees the story as more than a caper.
"This show addresses this idea of identity really well. As well as really just showing adults that we can make a difference in a young person's life," Boyack told Press Play Salem.
The production is the fifth of seven shows in Pentacle's 2026 season. Auditions in May drew actors, singers, and dancers to fill a cast of 20 to 30 performers for the high-energy show. The band plays on stage alongside the ensemble.
Pentacle Theatre has also expanded live captioning services for this run through a new partnership with Cue Captions, according to the theater's website.
Performance schedule
Evening performances run at 7:30 p.m. on Aug. 14, 15, 19–22, 26–29, and Sept. 2–5. Matinees are at 2 p.m. on Aug. 16, 23, 29, and 30.
The volunteer-run theater is at 324 52nd Ave NW in Salem, off Highway 22.
Tickets and community nights
Tickets are available at pentacletheatre.org or by calling the box office at 503-485-4300, open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Two performances of each Pentacle production are reserved as fundraisers for local nonprofits, a tradition that has generated more than $250,000 for community groups over the years. The theater also hosts a free dress rehearsal for residents of Oregon State Hospital and local group homes.
What's next
Pentacle's next production, "Angel Street (Gas Light)," opens Friday, Oct. 2.
