They say good things come in threes – an adage that could not be truer for the Thorburn family when it comes to musical theatre.

Father Ian Thorburn, and his sons Callum and Ethan, are all starring together in Tauranga Musical Theatre's April production of ‘Catch Me If You Can', a musical comedy based on the true story and the 2002 Leonardo DiCaprio film of the same name.

This is the first time the Thorburn men have worked together on stage, although Ethan and Callum are no strangers to theatre and performing.

Ethan, 20, is a vocal teacher at Mauao Performing Arts Centre, and has done 12 productions since 2006. His most recently was as the musical director for 16th Avenue Theatre's ‘Jack and the Beanstalk'.

Meanwhile, Toi Ohomai music student Callum, 18, starred in TMT's production of ‘Back to the 80s' in 2015, making ‘Catch Me If You Can' his second production.

However this is Ian's first show, and while it was something he has always wanted to do, it took a bit of persuasion from his boys to step into an audition.

'My boys just put my name down so I did it,” says Ian with a laugh.

Ethan adds, 'Callum and I have always loved doing shows, and Dad has always been our biggest critic so we thought it was about time he put his money where his mouth is and do a show with us.”

Jokes aside, Ethan says the rehearsal process has been really fun – 'Everyone gets along with each other”.

However, they all agree the most challenging part has been learning the show's high-energy dance numbers – a new experience for Ian in particular.

'I'm more singing than dancing, and once you see my dance you know why!” he jokes.

'It's interesting watching Dad dance as it is his first time doing something like this,” adds Ethan, 'but for me also the trickiest part is the dancing. I have two left feet, but think I am doing okay.”

Playing a variety of roles in the ensemble – everything from Pan Am executives and pilots, to FBI agents – the Thorburns are all enjoying their time on stage and say it's 'a good laugh”.

'All the FBI scenes are my favourite part,” says Ethan. 'The cast all gel really well together and they are some of the funniest moments.”

'There is a lot of humour, as well as some great jazz music and fantastic dance numbers,” says Ian.

'I think the audience will love it and have a great time.”

‘Catch Me If You Can' is on at Tauranga Musical Theatre's Westside Theatre, top of 17th Avenue, from April 14-28. Tickets available from: www.iticket.co.nz