Critics Review Broadway’s Cats: The Jellicle Ball Performance
Broadway’s latest revival of *Cats*, titled *Cats: The Jellicle Ball*, brings an exciting blend of traditional musical theater and contemporary dance culture. This production celebrates the enchanting world of the Jellicle cats as they gather for their iconic annual ball.
Returning Cast Highlights
The cast features notable talents reprising their roles. Key performers include:
- André De Shields as Old Deuteronomy
- Chasity Moore as Grizabella
- Junior LaBeija as Gus
- Sydney James Harcourt as Rum Tum Tugger
- Jonathan Burke as Mungojerrie
- Baby Byrne as Victoria
- Dava Huesca as Rumpleteazer
- Dudney Joseph Jr. as Munkustrap
- Robert “Silk” Mason as Magical Mister Mistoffelees
- Primo Thee Ballerino as Tumblebrutus
- Xavier Reyes as Jennyanydots
- Nora Schell as Bustopher Jones
- Bebé Nicole Simpson as Demeter
- Emma Sofia in a dual role as Cassandra and Skimbleshanks
- Garnet Williams as Bombalurina
- Teddy Wilson, Jr. as Sillabub
- Tara Lashan Clinkscales
Additionally, the cast includes renowned performers like Leiomy as Mavacity and Kya Azeen from *Pose* as Etcetera. The production also features the original DJ Griddlebone, Ken Ard, who portrayed Macavity in the original 1982 Broadway production.
Creative Team and Direction
The production is co-directed by Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch. It showcases choreography by Omari Wiles and Arturo Lyons, integrating elements of vogueing, which enhances the production’s unique flair. The vibrant score of *Cats*, crafted by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is infused with modern dance music elements, arranged by Trevor Holder.
Design and Production Team
A remarkable creative team supports the production, including:
- Rachel Hauck – Scenic Designer
- Qween Jean – Costume Designer
- Adam Honoré – Lighting Designer
- Kai Harada – Sound Designer
- Brittany Bland – Projection Designer
- Nikiya Mathis – Hair and Wig Designer
- Rani Zohny – Makeup Designer
- Paul Kieve – Magic Designer
- Josephine Kearns – Dramaturg and Gender Consultant
- William Waldrop – Music Supervisor and Director
Production stage management is handled by Cody Renard Richard, while general managing is performed by Baseline Theatrical’s Nick Lugo, Jessica Fried, and James Hickey.
The Significance of Ballroom Culture
The *Cats* revival uniquely incorporates elements from the LGBTQIA+ ballroom scene. This underground culture, which roots trace back to the 1920s in New York City, significantly influenced fashion and dance. Renowned for its flamboyant runway walks, ballroom culture peaked in the 1980s and is largely celebrated in various forms of contemporary art today.
A Timeless Classic
*Cats* originally premiered in London in 1979 and later made its Broadway debut in 1982. The show, based on T.S. Eliot’s poetry collection, *Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats*, captivated audiences with its enchanting narrative and innovative choreography. The original production won seven Tony Awards, solidifying its status as a Broadway classic.
With a captivating blend of new and traditional elements, *Cats: The Jellicle Ball* promises to enchant both devoted fans and newcomers alike. This revival is a commendable testament to the lasting legacy of Lloyd Webber’s work on Broadway.
