CATS

A Melbourne theatre review by Alex First

The 40^th anniversary production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical CATS is mesmerising – a real crowd pleaser.

Superb prowling and dancing, choreographic excellence, an enticing set design and look at me performances are its hallmark.

That is not to overlook moggie-appropriate costuming, attractive hair pieces and feline-friendly make-up.

And who can forget the hissing and stretching out of paws as the cats come out to play and put on a show.

There are ample opportunities for them to skulk through the aisles and rub shoulders with the enthusiastic audience and that they do.

And then we have the familiar refrain that constitutes the score – rhythmic, melodic and redolent, capped off by the haunting Memory.

We move from the highly energetic to the touching and reflective, ensuring the musical is charged with emotional resonance.

In short, CATS, based on TS Elliot’s poems in Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, remains a rolled gold winner to secure its place in the hearts of patrons anew.

Set in a rubbish dump, CATS tells the story of a tribe of cats known as the Jellicles that gather on the night of the annual Jellicle Ball.

That is when their leader, the highly respected Old Deuteronomy, will announce (just before dawn) the name of the puss that will be reborn with a new life.

It is an opportunity for all to stake their claim and put their best feet forward.

There are starring performances all around, among a talented cast.

First up, I can’t go past the depth and power in Mark Vincent’s extraordinary vocalisation as Old Deuteronomy. It is the stuff that sends shivers down one’s spine.

Then there is the haunting refrain, movement and expression of Gabriyel Thomas as the forlorn Grizabella, the faded Glamour Cat. She is positively soulful.

In terms of jaw-drawing performance, none is better than the high-leaping, twirling Tim Haskayne as the magical Mr Mistoffelees. From his appearance in character from on high, he makes each moment count. His presence is electrifying.

This trio is far from alone in marking its territory.

Todd McKenney injects humour into the elderly and frail Asparagus (Gus), who doesn’t mind the limelight and revives past glories.

When it comes to showmanship, another to put on a turn is Des Flanagan as the flamboyant, narcissistic Rum Tum Tugger. Make no mistake, he is a rock star, who knows how to work up a crowd.

In truth, I could run through all the principals and the ensemble for their faultless displays of cat-like behaviour.

Cats first opened in London in 1981 and then, with the same creative team, in New York in 1982.

It claimed Best Musical at both the Laurence Olivier Awards and the Tony Awards.

It has since gone on to entertain tens of millions across 50-plus countries, having been translated into more than 20 languages.

Now is Melbourne’s turn to celebrate the return of a beloved show that premiered in Australia at Theatre Royal Sydney in July 1985.

It is playing at Hamer Hall until 31^st January, before moving to Lyric Theatre, QPAC in Brisbane from 6^th to 22^nd February