As a backpacking twentysomething, I first saw ‘Cats’ in Austria – of all places. The musical at that time, was only two years old and was performed in German.
Now, this internationally beloved musical is back on Australian stages, celebrating 40 years since its 1985 premiere Down Under. Thankfully, it is in English this time and yes, there is much to celebrate.
A charismatic cast
For starters, musical theatre favourite Todd McKenney (recently on Australian stages in ‘Wicked’ and ‘The Odd Couple’) plays the plum roles of Bustopher Jones and Gus. In the latter role, he sings one of the show’s genuinely moving ballads, ‘Gus: The Theatre Cat’ – a duet with the gifted Lucy Maunder as the kind Jellylorum.
Gabriyel Thomas takes on the coveted role of Grizabella, the faded ‘glamour cat’ whose rendition of ‘Memory’ remains a showstopper. Thomas, who credits listening to ‘Cats’ as her earliest musical theatre memory, delivers both the required vocal power and emotional depth to the forlorn character.
Classical crossover star and powerhouse tenor Mark Vincent brings rich resonance to the role of Old Deuteronomy, the wise leader of the Jellicle tribe. The other standout performance for me was Axel Alvarez – whose graceful yet athletic fouettés and jetés across the stage as the balletic Mr Mistoffelees are spellbinding.
The Jellicle Ball
The musical, created by Andrew Lloyd Webber and based on T.S. Eliot’s ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’, follows a tribe of cats called the Jellicles who gather for the Jellicle Ball. On this special night, their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, will choose one cat to be reborn into a new life in the Heaviside Layer (essentially cat heaven).
Each song introduces different cats – some glamorous, some mischievous, some tragic – making a case for why they deserve that second chance.
With its blend of eclectic songs from a range of musical styles, dynamic choreography, and whimsical storytelling, ‘Cats’ has captivated audiences worldwide, winning seven Tony Awards and becoming one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history.
A feast for the senses
Watching this high-octane production – ‘Curious Cat Cocktail’ in hand (a delightful gin and peach Bellini, crafted exclusively for the show) – I was blown away. The costuming, hair, and makeup are spectacular, transforming each performer into a feline marvel. Every leap, stretch, and sinuous movement is executed with breathtaking precision, embodying the sleek, lithe essence of cats.
For those who prefer to sip something else, the bar also offer the ‘Magical Cat’, a mystifying blend of tequila and ginger beer or the ‘Glamour Cat’, a sophisticated vodka and lychee martini.
This revival of ‘Cats’ is a dazzling feast for the senses. From its exquisite visual design to its energetic choreography and bespoke cocktails, the show delivers an immersive experience that lingers long after the curtain falls.
Cats The Musical
Theatre Royal Sydney
17 June–6 September 2025
Her Majesty’s Theatre, Adelaide
From 20 September, 2025
Crown Theatre, Perth
From 8 November, 2025
Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne
From 21 December, 2025
Lyric Theatre, QPAC, Brisbane
From February 2026
