Review - Cats

    ***WRITTEN BY ME FOR BACKSTAGE PASS*** 

 

Cats is a musical that stands alongside few others as one of the longest running shows in musical theatre history. Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and boasting 21 years in the West End and 18 years on Broadway, it has captured the hearts of audiences on a global scale.

Based on T.S. Eliot's work 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats', we follow a group of Jellicle cats as they prepare for the annual Jellicle ball, where one from their midst will be selected to journey to the Heaviside Layer to be reborn and embark on a new life.

Basing an entire musical on a book of poems about the psychology of cats doesn't allow for an intricate plot and this is the main downfall of the show. Although we given a detailed introduction to each cat, there is little storyline to tie these pieces together and at times this renders the show difficult to follow.

However the show's saving graces are its breathtaking choreography, stunning costumes and impressive set, comprising of the various debris of a junkyard spilling off stage into the audience. Consistently mesmerising dance numbers and beautiful instrumentals more than made up for the lack of stand out songs with the exception of the iconic song 'Memory'.

Cats is very much an ensemble piece with no one feline overshadowing the next. Each cast member has their own chance to shine and their performances are seamless both individually and as a group.

It's clear that despite being 32 years old, the production has not lost momentum and will continue to dazzle audiences for many years to come. 

You can't stop the beat...

If you fancy a fun and feel-good night out then grab your can of Ultra Clutch and head to the Kings Theatre, because Hairspray is in town. Be prepared to be transported to 1962,  a time when big hair was all the rage and the integration between black and white was not.

Set in Baltimore, Hairspray tells the story of school girl Tracy Turnblad who dreams of one day being one of the 'nicest kids in town' and appearing on 'The Corny Collins Show' - a show she watches religiously with best friend Penny Pingleton. When a spot opens up Tracy jumps at the chance to audition, sparking a chain of events that's going to change her life for good.

Freya Sutton was the perfect choice for ambitious dreamer Tracy Turnblad. She had so much energy and sang every song with such enthusiasm. 

Mark Benson was hilarious as Tracy's mother (and recluse) Edna Turnblad. His lines were delivered with great comedic timing and I particulary enjoyed the joint scenes with Wilbur Turnblad played by Paul Rider.

Special shoutout goes to Sandra Marvin and her take on Motormouth Maybelle. What an impact she made on the audience with her powerhouse voice and sassiness.

Hairspray is one of those shows that has something for everyone. A bright set, colourful costumes and some of the most catchy showtunes. I urge you to catch it while it's still in town.