2. Nicole Scherzinger (Grizabella) in Cats at the London Palladium. Photo credit Alessandro PinnaT.S. Elliot’s book of poems, Old Possums Book of Practical Cats, inspired Andrew Lloyd Webber to put them to music and turn them into a musical. The show opened in May 1981 at the New London Theatre and ran for 21 years before closing in 2002. And now it’s back, for a limited 12 week run at the London Palladium this Christmas.

One night of the year, all the cats come together to decide which of them will ascend up into heaven and come back reborn. Each cat has their own personality and shows this through song. It’s a bit like a 1980’s version of X Factor (Cat Factor) where each feline has the opportunity sing and prove why they should be the one chosen to be reincarnated by Old Deuteronomy, the oldest and wisest of the cats.

The music is great and the choreography sensational. There is no doubt that every one of these performers are truly talented but I wonder, if the songs were removed and Cats was to be performed as a dance piece, would the story of the show be any less clear? A new addition to this production has been the introduction of the Rum Tum Tugger’s rap. A Justin Beiber/Michael Jackson style of song performed well by Antoine Murray-Straughan. I think a rapping cat fits nicely in amongst the other various styles in the show and helps to build new layers to the story.

The role of Grizabella is relatively small but vital to the story. She is an old glamour cat who turned her back on the others in search of fame and fortune. Now old and haggard she is returning, hoping the others will accept her back into the fold. Nicole Scherzinger’s is good, there is no question that she is able to play the part. However, having seen the recent UK tour, I can’t say she was any better than Sophia Ragavelas, raising the question whether celebrity casting was really necessary here (especially for a show that is so popular anyway).

Cats really is a show that requires strong performances from the entire cast and this production certainly holds that true. Gus: The Theatre Cat was adorably played by Paul F Monaghan (who also played Bustopher well) and Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer were a perfect pairing in Benjamin Yates and Dawn Williams.

If Cats were a brand new musical hitting the West End this Christmas the longevity of its run could be short. However, as one of the longest running shows, it holds many memories for the general public (many of who I overheard saying they had seen the original production as children and we’re delighted to get the opportunity to see it again as adults). It’s playful nature means it is a great show to take younger children to to expose them to the bright lights of the West End and keep them entertained for a couple of hours. They can even get their face painted like a cat before the show which is a lovely touch!

Cats has everything a great musical needs. Great set design, great cast, great music and great dancing. The only thing missing is a strong story line and one which could easily be missed by viewers not familiar with exactly what they are watching.

Reviewed by West End Wilma

Cats is currently booking at the London Palladium until 28 February 2015. Nicole Scherzinger is playing the role of Grizabella until 7 February when Sophia Ragavelas will resume the role.

 

A guide to the Cats in Cats (taken from Wikipedia)