By Christopher Thomas
Even as I write this review, I find myself in awe of the production of Cats I have just witnessed.
The show itself is now a true icon of the stage. Cats is an entirely-sung stage musical composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, based on Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot. It premiered in London’s West End at the New London Theatre in 1981, directed by Trevor Nunn with choreography by Gillian Lynne. Premiering in 1081, Cats by Andrew Lloyd Webber
has become one of the most widely produced professional musicals in theatre history. It has been staged in over 30 countries, translated into over 15 languages, with hundreds of professional productions mounted across the globe. The original West End production ran for 21 years (8,949 performances) and the original Broadway run lasted 18 years (7,485
performances), both setting long-running records at the time.
This production that’s currently gracing us in Brisbane celebrates the show’s 40th anniversary.
Quite simply, this production is nothing short of exceptional. Upon entering the theatre, audience members can see the stage curtains already up and open, with a visual feast of setpieces, size-appropriate to being a cat, with oversized objects littering the space. The set spills down over the edge of the stage within inches of patrons in the front row, immediately
eliminating the “fourth wall”, before a single note has been played or sung.
With no initially clear plotline (a point that is heavily debated), the production swiftly moves through several musical genres. Universal themes such as inclusivity/prejudice and forgiveness/redemption for example, stand out which connect with the viewer on a raw emotional level.
The orchestra lead by musical director Paul White commands attention as it expertly ploughs through the intricate score, with a punch that perfectly complements the intensity on stage. The live orchestra is offstage, but very present with the unique score being at the forefront of the production. The score sounds revamped compared to the original recording and is extremely bold with a strong rock presence in several scenes (the electric guitar is well utilised here).
The characterisation of the felines by the cast has been expertly led by Australian Tour director Amy Berrisford. The attention to detail is flawless. The characterisation displays a mastery of the feline behaviour, which the show demands and the cast execute with precision.
Mark Vincent stars as Old Deuteronomy, with his powerful vocals commanding the cast and the audience both. Being the one of the youngest Deuteronomy cast choices I can recall, his rich baritone voice commands attention.
Lucy Maunder executes a caring Jellylorum, who among her many appearances throughout the show, provides a heartwarming companion to Asparagus. Her extended performance in the second act is simply beautiful.
Todd McKenny returns to Cats thirty-six years following his first appearance in the musical in1987. His performance of the songs Bustopher Jones and Gus: The Theatre Cat leaves audiences gushing with delight.
Des Flanagan (Rum Tum Tugger), Jarrod Draper (Munkstrap) and Leigh Archer (Jennanydots/Gumby Cat) all provide brilliant performances.
The standout for this reviewer is Gabriyel Thomas who portrays Grizabella “the glamour cat”. Her tormented characterisation and heart wrenching vocals hit you fair in your soul with a performance that will never be forgotten.
Cats demands the cast be true “triple threats” (actors, singers, dancers) and this production delivers in spades. The dance technique (ballet features heavily) is flawless and the cast work perfectly together in true ensemble fashion to create a cohesive experience. The vocal performances from every single cast member are outstanding. One cannot stress enough how complete this production is putting it firmly at world-class stature. Cats runs at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC until Feb 22nd 2026.
