One of the biggest hits in theatrical history, Cats has come to Budweiser Gardens for shows on Wednesday, November 30 and Thursday, December 1 as part of a new North American tour, with only a few stops in Canada.
Composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber and based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the record-breaking musical spectacular has captivated audiences in over 30 countries and 15 languages. Its message is the heart and soul of the production.
Alberta native Kieran Macdonald, the Dance Captain and Male Swing in the show, told 519 Magazine how much he adores the underlying theme and message of the show. “The show heavily focuses on the ideas of forgiveness, redemption, and most importantly, acceptance,” he said. “As a collective, we learn to open up our minds and our hearts and accept each other for who they truly are.”
Since its world premiere, Cats has been seen by more than 75 million people worldwide. Originally directed by Trevor Nunn with choreography and associate direction by Gillian Lynne, scenic and costume design by John Napier, lighting design by David Hersey, and sound design by Abe Jacob, Cats opened in London’s West End in 1981.
The touring version models itself on the 2016 Broadway revival version of the stage show which was reimagined by three-time Tony Award-winning choreographer, Andy Blankenbuehler.
“Everything is the exact same from the Broadway revival that we’re bringing on the road, which is super exciting,” Macdonald revealed. “Cats is an iconic show – from the incredible score and overture to Dame Gillian Lynne’s choreography from the original 1982 production on the West End. The show remains incredibly iconic and timeless.”
The original Broadway production opened in 1982 at Broadway’s Winter Garden Theatre, where it ran for 7,485 performances and 18 years. The Tony Award-winning Best Musical held the title of longest-running musical in Broadway history until it was surpassed in 2006 by Lloyd Webber’s, The Phantom of the Opera.
Cats hits the stage at Budweiser Gardens this week (Nov. 30 and Dec. 1). Tickets are available online at budweisergardens.com.
