A blue promotional graphic celebrates a theatre production with the headline at the top in large white text reading “Catch Me If You Can” Was a Resounding Success! centered beneath a thin gold horizontal line. In the middle of the graphic is a large group photo of dozens of students posed on a stage set with blue and purple lighting. The set includes a raised platform with railings and stairs on both sides, and a circular sign in the center that reads “PAN AM.” Students are arranged in multiple rows, some standing on the upper level and others seated or kneeling in front. They wear a variety of costumes, including suits, dresses, uniforms, and casual outfits, suggesting different characters from the production. Below the photo, a block of white text reads: “Thank you to all of the students, staff, and community members who attended and supported our show! We are incredibly grateful for your enthusiasm and support. Be sure to check out the caption to read the amazing review our theatre students received—we are so proud of them!” At the bottom center of the graphic is a circular logo with the words “Crestwood Theatre” over a purple ribbon, featuring theatre masks and a microphone icon, all set against a light background with a gold ring. The entire design uses a blue background with gold accent lines at the top and bottom.

May 5, 2026

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Crestwood School District

More Good Theater "CATCH ME IF YOU CAN" at Crestwood High School - Review by Paul Bruce

Once again, the high school theater program that lights the way for all other high school theater programs has knocked the ball out of the park with a grand slam. Producer Hailey Cook, together with director Cayla Kolbusz, technical director Lia LaBenne, assistant technical director Elizabyth Chartier, assistant director Adam El-zein, and production assistant Jad Abdallah, have created a production of Catch Me If You Can that is truly one for the ages. It is doubtful that any community theater—and for that matter, professional touring company—could outdo the quality of this fine show. As usual, Ms. Kolbusz and her remarkably gifted team have blocked, staged, and polished a company of high school students into a shining example of what should be the template for all high school productions. Not so much as a hiccup, a blip, or a blemish exists in this fine show. The same can be said for the work of music director Vanessa El-zein Lai and choreographer Mina Haidi. The vocals in this show rival any fully produced CD and the dances are imaginative, sharp, and exciting.

The scenic design by Sean Mason, together with Matt Woldanski and Josh Hornkohl, creates a sleek, satellite-inspired 1960s airport world that rivals the look and feel of 2001: A Space Odyssey. A massive white wall, peppered with lighted circles and winding staircases, makes the audience feel like they have arrived at a futuristic airport. Furnishings slide in and out seamlessly to define the many scenes, always flawlessly and at the speed of light. The costumes, designed by Xylona Appleton with assistance from Lasca Smith, are a vibrant showcase of style and versatility—from pre-mod wear to baseball uniforms, flight attendant attire, and more—all flawlessly created. Props by Gilda Cameron add authenticity and detail, while hair designs by Grim Lacy and makeup by Delaney Singleton complete the visual look with masterful skill.

Adding to the magnificence of this production are the lighting designs of Jake Woldanski and the sound designs of Nick Gladkowski. The lighting brings the clean lines of mid-century architecture to life through vibrant colors and seamless transitions, while the sound design provides a perfect blend of vocals and instrumental tracks.

Leading the cast is Ali Boussi as Frank Abagnale Jr., delivering a powerhouse performance with a strong voice and commanding stage presence. Yanjie Zhu shines as FBI agent Carl Hanratty, portraying a determined character who is often outmatched yet ultimately prevails. His performance is both compelling and vocally strong. Allie Fayz and Robin Kovach, as Frank’s parents, deliver heartfelt performances that capture both emotional depth and vocal strength.

Rokaya Martin, as Brenda Strong, moves the audience with her voice and stage presence, supported by Henry Martin and Sharon Adjanohoun, who bring both humor and strong vocals as her parents. Additional roles by Brenden Young, Amir Hamdan, Jayden Figueroa, and Maya Anani showcase impressive talent and contribute greatly to the overall production. Other performers and the ensemble cast add depth, energy, and consistency throughout the show.

Sadly, this show is now history, leaving us with the assurance that its talented participants are off to new adventures—hopefully in theater—and that we must all wait patiently for the next wonderful production from Crestwood High School.