Based on T.S. Eliot’s 'Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats' and set to music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, the record-breaking musical 'CATS' returns to Australian audiences for its 40th Anniversary season at the Crown Theatre (Perth).
There’s always been an air of apprehension, and mystery, surrounding this musical – especially within its actual storyline, but you may be surprised at the amount of songs you would know from this musical, such as 'Memory', which has been recorded by over 150 artists since 1981 including Celine Dion, Barbara Streisand, Liberace, and Barry Manilow (to name a few).
The story is centred around a tribe of 'Jellicle' cats, and on one auspicious night of the year, they all meet under the full moon for the Jellicle Ball. It is during this ball that their benevolent leader, Old Deuteronomy (played by Mark Vincent), announces which member of the tribe will ascend to the 'Heaviside Layer', and return anew. There were times during the performance where people were still unsure of the premise, but here are the bare bones: 'CATS' is about acceptance, and renewal – age, and legacy – life, and death. A viewer won’t need to know the full narrative, as each cast member and ensemble drives home a strong and enriching visual story through song, dance, and music. I found myself swept away in the vocal prowess, and poignant staging, from start to finish.
The production had a strong presence on stage, utilising foreground, background, and midground elements to create depth of field, and engagement by cast and audiences. Lighting and stage effects were plentiful, with junkyard lighting and design spilling out into the main lounge seating – adding an immersive quality to the spectacular (but be careful where you choose to sit, especially if you’re allergic!). While interaction was limited, the cast utilised the thoroughfares and wings of the audience space, drawing attention from patrons as they skulked among the seats and shadows, and met on the stage.
Image © Daniel Boud
Some musicals are notorious for losing steam in the second act – where typically a rushed conclusion is shoehorned in, and the musical numbers fall flat. Between cast and the live orchestra, this production does nothing but expand and revitalise, with each moment holding as much passion, energy, and gravitas as the next.
Gabriyel Thomas (who plays Grizabella) was a powerhouse performer, and a phenomenal presence on stage. Her vocal range was haunting, desperate, and chilled audiences with a dirge quality. In the penultimate performance of 'Memory', absolute silence rang out in the theatre as she reached the higher notes effortless, everyone breathless and enthralled. Todd McKenney, and Des Flanagan (Asparagus and Rum Tum Tugger, respectively) were the comedy backbone, with vocal and acting range that stood out, unique, and refreshing. Jarrod Draper (as Munkustrap) had an enriching performance as the noble cat, with a deep and palpable baritone that commanded your attention. Tim Haskayne (as Mistoffelees) delighted and mesmerised audiences with movement, acrobatics, stage presence, and craft; while Jake O’Brien and Savannah Lind (as Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer, respectively) delighted audiences in their fun, whimsical, and high-energy routine.
While there was so many stand out solos, and ensemble performances, the entire cast were mesmerising in their harmonies, and their fluid movements. The strong use of ballet and contemporary dance techniques accentuated the feline acrobatics, and movement – presenting an eerily accurate, but also fantasised, performance.
'CATS The Musical' is based on poetic works, and encompasses themes of redemption, reincarnation, and respect. It was a heartwarming, and exciting performance that should be enjoyed. This performance, and the people involved in it, are the reason why the arts are so impactful for audiences and wellbeing – the experience alone will leave you feeling Perrrthfectly inspired, so get rowdy and rambunctious, the cast will love it!
