Cats at the King’s Theatre Glasgow Review
Cats
King’s Theatre, Glasgow
13-17 September 2016
Reviewed by Dee Ryz
Cats is one of Andrew Lloyd-Webber’s most famous musicals. Based on the poems found in T.S Eliot ‘Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats’, the story follows the Jellicle cats during a very special evening, the Jellicle Ball, which takes place once a year. We follow their celebrations and are introduced to each of the cats from striking tabby Munkustrap, the narrator (Matt Krzan) to posh Jennyanydots (Lucinda Shaw) and the haggard Grizabella (Marianne Benedict), while we wait for leader Old Deuteronomy (Kevin Stephen-Jones) who will choose which cat will travel to the ‘Heaviside Layer’ for a new life. Unfortunately, before he can make his decision Old Deuteronomy is kidnapped by the mischievous Macavity (Javier Cid), and there the cats come together once again to overcome the villain and recover their leader who eventually makes the Jellicle Choice, and the chosen Grizabella makes her way to the Heaviside Layer signalling the end of the ball.
Having seen the musical previously, I was anxious to see this performance and I was not disappointed – the show was outstanding! The cast were amazing – each cat with its distinct personality and impressive dancing and singing skills – however a special mention must go to Marianne Benedict for her soulful rendition of ‘Memory’ which received a standing ovation in the Grand Circle. Absolutely breath-taking!
The scenery was very true to form as a junkyard including glowing cat’s eyes, complete with scrapped car and oversized cereal box steps (this allows plenty cats to prowl around the audience during the performance!), not to mention lots of other props (who’d have thought they could make a ‘working’ train out of bicycle parts, an old pipe and a red sheet!?) hidden skilfully onstage.
Taking place in Glasgow’s centrally-based historic King’s Theatre, you’d be mad to miss this, so get yourself along to witness the Jellicle Ball for yourself!
Cats scores a purr-fect 5 out of 5 stars.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £15 to £64.50 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).
Cats is at the King’s Theatre in Glasgow until 17 September 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 7648.
King’s Theatre, 297 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4JN | 0844 871 7648
