Cats: Thoughts From A Long Time Fan

Cats West End London Palladium

This production of Cats, certainly inspired some heated conversations over the weekend, but what it also revived in me was my love of the show itself and it’s place in awakening my love of musicals, a love that I daresay will never leave me. These long-running shows wrote new rules for musicals and continue to do so.

REVIEW: Cats, London Palladium ✭✭✭✭

Nicole Scherzinger as Grizabella in Cats. Photo: Alessandro Pinna

The very best aspect of this production is the power, energy and sheer musicality Graham Hurman brings to the score. The orchestra is sizzling, sparking musical energy through every bar of Lloyd-Webber’s rich and diverse score. There is discipline, sensuality, a real sense of tribal connection and acrobatic excellence in the dancing here; it all feels fresh, precise and vigorous.

Cats Opens At London Palladium

Elaine Paige and Nicole Scherzinger at the Cats Opening Night. Photo: Dan Wooller

Nicole Scherzinger made her theatrical stage debut as the London Palladium last night playing Grizabella in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats. This special revival is playing at the London Palladium for a limited run and re-unites the shows original creative team of Director Trevor Nunn, Choreographer Gillian Lynne, and Designer John Napier who have given the show a face lift 33 years after it first opened at the New London Theatre. Cats was to become one of the longest-running shows on Broadway and in the West End winning major theatrical awards worldwide with a combined audience of over 50 million people and counting. Last night’s audience included Elaine Paige who originated the role of Grizabella in 1981 and the composers family. Don’t miss out on seeing this classic musical in its revamped glory. Cats runs until 28th February 2015.