Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical 'Cats' is an iconic production that has captured the hearts of audiences all over the world. This musical is based on T.S. Eliot's book of poems, "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats," and has been performed in countless theatres and venues since its debut in 1981.
'Cats' was first performed in London's West End in 1981 and was an instant hit. The musical was directed by Trevor Nunn and choreographed by Gillian Lynne. It was produced by Cameron Mackintosh and Andrew Lloyd Webber, who also composed the music. The original London production ran for 21 years and 8,949 performances, making it the longest-running musical in the West End at the time. In 1983, 'Cats' opened on Broadway and went on to run for 18 years and 7,485 performances, making it the longest-running musical on Broadway until it was surpassed by 'The Phantom of the Opera' in 2006. On this day 11th May 1989, it became the West End's longest-running musical, completing eight years. It held this record for seventeen years until it was overtaken by Les Misérables,(the current record holder).
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The musical tells the story of a group of cats, known as the Jellicle Cats, who gather together for the Jellicle Ball, a special event that takes place once a year. During the ball, the cats compete to be chosen by their leader, Old Deuteronomy, to be reborn into a new life. Each cat has a unique personality and backstory; they all sing and dance through the show.
Some of the most memorable characters in 'Cats' include Grizabella, the Glamour Cat, who sings the show's most famous song, "Memory"; Rum Tum Tugger, the rebellious and flirtatious cat; Mr Mistoffelees, the magical cat who can perform incredible feats; and Macavity, the villainous cat who is always causing trouble. Each character has its own distinct personality and role in the story, making the show a delight for audiences of all ages.
'Cats' has significantly impacted musical theatre, paving the way for other shows to incorporate dance and song in new and innovative ways. The musical's success has also inspired countless adaptations, including a 1998 film version and a 2019 live-action film adaptation. In addition, the musical has been translated into more than 20 languages and has been performed in countries all over the world.
'Cats' is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of audiences all over the world. With its memorable characters, catchy music, and innovative choreography, this musical has left a lasting legacy in the world of theatre.
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