The latest UK tour revival of the musical *Cats* has opened to mixed reviews, with critics highlighting a lack of emotional depth and coherence in the production. Drew McOnie’s staging, which aims to refresh the 1981 Andrew Lloyd Webber classic, has been described as uneven and unambitious compared to recent reinterpretations of the show.

While the 1981 original has long been noted for its parade of characters each performing individual numbers, some observers say the new production struggles to maintain momentum, especially in the second act where the show tends to drag. The choreography by McOnie has been criticized for failing to live up to the standard set by Gillian Lynne’s iconic original work. Instead of capturing the fluid, feline grace associated with the show’s dance numbers, group sequences here have been described as cramped and lackluster, lacking the energy and precision audiences expect.

Costume choices have drawn particular attention, with the muted color palette—dominated by beige, aubergine, and grey—earning comments about its drab and homemade appearance. Melanie La Barrie’s portrayal of Old Deuteronomy was noted for its imposing presence but also drew some remarks comparing her feathered costume to a large pigeon. In contrast, Diante Lodge’s Macavity received some praise for his dramatic entrance and striking devil-horned headpiece, which added a highlight to the otherwise pedestrian visual presentation. The park backdrop was also singled out as a rare successful element of the set design.

Central to the narrative is the character Grizabella, the faded beauty and tragic outcast whose song “Memory” is the emotional climax. In this production, Taziva Faye-Katsande, stepping in for the ill Rachael Wooding, has been described as lacking the gravitas and vulnerability often associated with the role. The performance, while met with applause, reportedly lacked the soulful intensity that the piece demands. This absence of emotional engagement left some audience members feeling disconnected from the show’s underlying themes about identity and belonging.

Despite the production’s attempt to reaffirm the idea that “cats are very much like you,” critics argue it failed to evoke a meaningful reflection of humanity. The revival is scheduled to begin its UK tour on October 6, with performances planned at various venues. Further information is available through the official Open Air Theatre and UK Tour websites.