Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical *Cats* is set to embark on a UK tour starting October 6, following a recent revival directed by Drew McOnie. The production has drawn mixed reactions from audiences and critics, with opinions varying on its approach to reimagining the 1981 show.
The revival attempts to refresh the classic musical, which is known for its series of character-driven songs sharing the stories of various cats. However, some observers have noted that while reinvention is often welcomed in theatre, this rendition struggles to sustain momentum, particularly in its second act, which has been described as slow and lacking in energy.
McOnie’s staging notably diverges in style from a recent radical Broadway reimagining that set the story within New York’s queer ballroom scene. Compared to that bold reinterpretation, this UK production is perceived by some as more pedestrian and restrained. Despite traditional cat features like ears and tails, the overall visual effect has been criticized for feeling insufficiently feline and occasionally dull.
Costume design has been a particular point of contention. The use of muted tones—beige, grey, aubergine—and loosely attached accessories has drawn descriptions ranging from “dreary” to “homemade.” Melanie La Barrie’s portrayal of Old Deuteronomy, clad in layered grey feathers, has divided opinion, with some likening the character’s appearance to that of a large pigeon. Conversely, Diante Lodge’s Macavity, sporting devil-horn ears and spiked accents, has been highlighted as a standout element, alongside the park-like backdrop incorporated into the set.
Choreography, directed by McOnie, has also garnered criticism when compared to the original work of Gillian Lynne. Some solo performances receive praise, but ensemble numbers are described as cramped, heavy, and lacking vibrancy, leaving some viewers questioning the production’s overall dynamism and cohesiveness.
Central to the musical’s emotional core is the character Grizabella, the faded beauty who performs the iconic song “Memory.” In this revival, Taziva Faye-Katsande steps in as Grizabella, replacing the originally cast Rachael Wooding. While Faye-Katsande’s performance earned applause, some felt it lacked the depth and raw emotion typically associated with the role, likening the vocal delivery to a polished talent show contestant rather than a soul-wrenching outcast.
The production concludes with the statement that “Cats are very much like you,” signaling a connection between the feline characters and human experiences. Yet, some attendees and reviewers found that this message did not fully resonate, citing a disconnect between the portrayal of the cats and the reflection of human traits.
As the tour approaches, the revival continues to invite diverse opinions on its success in balancing respect for the original musical with the challenges of reinvention for contemporary audiences.