Cats
One of the greatest musicals to ever grace theatre stages, Cats opened at the Lyric Theatre on the 29th of January for a short three week season. Since its World Premiere, Cats has been presented in over 30 countries, has been translated into 15 languages and has been seen by more than 73 million people worldwide.
Cats is a dancer’s dream and a choreographer’s heaven, combining acrobatics, ballet, jazz, tap among other dance styles, set to beautifully orchestrated musical pieces by the brilliant Andrew Lloyd Webber. Featuring a mystical starry set and beautiful complex levels, with entry and exit ways throughout the stage, the mystery of not knowing where performers are coming from makes it consistently intriguing and mystical.
Based on T.S. Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, the show comes alive with the highly energetic Jellicle Cats in a larger-than-life junkyard on the night of the Jellicle Ball. One by one they tell their stories for their leader Old Deuteronomy, who will then decide which cat will be reborn and ascend into heaven. Starring Delta Goodrem as Grizzabella, her performance of the famous song ‘Memory’ was nothing short of awe inspiring and absolute perfection – the only down side is that she isn’t in the shoow long enough.
Every member of this production delivers the highest standard of professionalism and theatrical talent in vocals, dance and acting, from the mischievous duo Mungojerrie (Brent Osborne) and Rumpleteazer (Dominique Hamilton) who were absolutely brilliant in their household rivalry and playful acrobatics, to the incredible Mr. Mistoffelees (Christopher Favaloro) who stole the show with his brilliant technique for one of the most physically challenging dance numbers in the show. With an ensemble of so many experienced performers from all different backgrounds, this performance is one of the most visually spectacular masterpieces to hit the QPAC stage!
Melissa Bobbermien
More reading
Interview with Josh Piterman and Holly Meegan
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