Lunchbox Theatrical Productions and David Atkins Enterprises
in association with the Really Useful Company Asia Pacific
LYRIC THEATRE. STAR CITY.
From 16th May 2010.
Based on poems by T.S.Elliot, Andrew Lloyd Webbers' musical "Cats" defies categorization. With no real storyline, relying largely on dance to create atmosphere, the show has continued to intrigue and entertain audiences around the world ever since it first premiered at the New London Theatre in 1981. It played on the West End in London for 21 years and on Broadway for 18 years.
Having seen the original Australian production of "Cats" in 1985, and several other productions since, I was curious to see if the show still retained its magic, and am delighted to report that in this new production, playing a limited season at the Lyric Theatre, Star City, the magic is as potent as ever.
Actually this production is not that new. With its Australian cast, it has toured extensively in South Korea and China, returning to Australia in 2009. It has played short seasons in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne and Perth before finally moving to Sydney, where it is playing for just three weeks before returning to Manila and Taiwan.
None-the-less its as shiny as a new pin, with the original Gillian Lynne choreography, and Trevor Nunn direction intact, both carefully reproduced by Jo-Anne Robinson. Robinson was involved in creating the original West End and Broadway productions, and has since directed and choreographed "Cats" worldwide. Her involvement insures the stamp of authenticity and that we see this classic show as it is meant to be seen.
John Napier's original garbage-tip design, here beautifully lit,looks as mysterious as ever on the large Lyric Theatre stage, and the cats costumes and make-up just as wondrous. So were the thrilling opening minutes of the show when cats eyes flashed all around the theatre, and the delicious surprise when the cats mingled with the audience during interval.
The sound quality throughout is excellent, allowing the lyrics to be clearly heard. The dancing of the ensemble is excellent, and while it is hard to recognise individual performers under the heavy cat make-up, Shaun Rennie, as Munkustrap, sang superbly and Adrian Ricks dazzled with his athleticism as Mr. Mistoffelees. Delia Hannah added pathos to a fine voice to stop the show with her stunning rendition of the big hit song "Memory".
Although it's been fifteen years since Sydney last saw a professional production of "Cats", it has been worth the wait, because this excellent production provides a relatively rare opportunity to enjoy one of the century's most original music theatre experiences. If you've not yet seen a professional production of "Cats", this is your opportunity.
