A Glittering, Updated Stage Design
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s *Cats* has always been visually striking, but this new Broadway revival takes the spectacle to a whole new level. The set is a masterpiece of industrial design, a junkyard transformed into a breathtakingly beautiful and surprisingly functional space for the Jellicle cats to call home. The use of lighting is particularly impressive, creating a constantly shifting mood and highlighting the performers’ movements with remarkable artistry. It’s clear a significant amount of thought and creativity went into crafting this visually stunning world.
Refined Choreography and Physicality
The choreography, while retaining the iconic movements of the original production, feels refreshed and revitalized. The dancers have a remarkable agility and precision, making the already impressive routines even more captivating. They fully inhabit their feline characters, embodying their unique personalities through nuanced gestures and expressive movements. The physicality of the performance is arguably the strongest aspect, showcasing the athleticism and grace of the cast.
Stronger Character Development?
One of the criticisms often leveled at *Cats* is its sometimes underdeveloped characters. This revival attempts to address this by giving each cat a more distinct personality and backstory. While some characters still feel a bit underdeveloped, the enhanced choreography and staging helps to better define their individual arcs and emotional journeys throughout the performance. The increased character focus makes the emotional impact of the story hit harder.
A Stellar Cast Delivers Powerful Performances
The cast of this revival is truly exceptional. Each performer brings a unique energy and talent to their role, inhabiting their characters completely. From the mischievous Rum Tum Tugger to the aging Old Deuteronomy, every cat feels authentic and believable. The vocal performances are consistently strong, showcasing impressive range and control. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, creating a genuine sense of community among the Jellicle cats.
The Music Remains Timeless
Lloyd Webber’s iconic score remains as captivating as ever. The familiar melodies are delivered with passion and precision, and the orchestrations are lush and full. The power of songs like “Memory” and “The Jellicle Ball” is undeniable, and the revival does nothing to diminish their impact. The music remains the heart of the show, capable of evoking a wide range of emotions.
Some Familiar Flaws Persist
While the revival successfully addresses some of the original production’s weaknesses, some familiar issues remain. The plot, even with the enhanced character development, is still somewhat thin. The narrative is more of a series of vignettes than a cohesive story, which might leave some audience members feeling slightly unsatisfied. This is a classic example of a show whose strengths lie more in its visual spectacle and musicality than its plot.
A Visually Stunning and Emotionally Resonant Experience
Despite the lingering narrative shortcomings, the new *Cats* revival is a thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience. The dazzling stage design, refined choreography, and stellar cast create a truly immersive and captivating world. It’s a show that will leave you breathless and, for many, will redefine their experience of this classic musical. The commitment to excellence from the creative team and performers is undeniable, making this revival a must-see for theatre-goers.
A Worthwhile Update for a Beloved Classic
This revival successfully updates *Cats* for a modern audience while remaining respectful to the original production. It’s a visually breathtaking spectacle with a powerful score and a talented cast. While the story might not completely satisfy everyone, the overall experience is undeniably impressive and makes for a truly memorable night at the theatre. It’s a purr-fectly good night out, even if not a flawless one. Read more about the Cats Broadway review.
