This production of the iconic stage musical, Cats, is brought to us by a huge cast of accomplished young performers The programme lists 31 principals and 161 ensemble members. This is a truly ambitious production, with challenging songs and movement, and the cast rise to the occasion, showcasing their impressive dance, vocal and acting skills.
The show is comprised of a series of “chapters”, each introducing us to either a character, or an aspect of the community of Jellicle Cats. At the interval, some audience members told me that they were struggling to follow the story, but perhaps it is better to think of the piece as a collection of interconnected stories.
As Grizelda, Kirsty Montgomery has the challenge of singing the haunting song, Memory. As well as being vocally demanding, the song has themes of aging and death, which is no mean feat for such a young singer. Montgomery nails the song, her huge voice infused with Grizelda’s sadness.
Lewis Boyd brings a strutting machismo to the rugged, rebellious tomcat, Rum Tum Tugger. His stage presence is electrifying, and he is every bit the rockstar.
Elsie Kinyua gave a standout performance as the youngest cat, Jemima. Kinyua’s tiny frame is home to a huge talent, and bags of commitment. Her singing was so strong, her movement so intentional, her strength of character so present. I got a powerful sense of intelligence and compassion, as the young Jemima reached out to the exiled Grizabella. I felt that she recognized her own future self in the older cat.
The staging makes marvellous use of levels to highlight the non-human physicality of the cats. There are three tiers on the stage, and the boxes above are used to good effect too, especially when the outcast Grizabella is separated from the rest. Wheeled tables are also used to create an additional surface on which the cast can perch. I liked the parts where the ensemble gathered around one cat, intent on hearing their tale. There are thrilling acrobatics, with cartwheels, somersaults, and balletic lifts, all contributing to the sense of catlike agility. The team of five choreographers have created a complex spectacle in which every young person gets to shine.
One nice touch is the screen at the back, which places the cats in recognizable locations around Edinburgh, always with the full moon casting its luminosity across the scene. Projected images include the Royal Mile, Waverley Station, and many more. The stillness of the night contrasts with the sprightliness of the cats.
The beautiful poetry of T.S. Elliot, set to music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, stands the test of time and is at once whimsical and profound. What a masterpiece this musical is!
The Beyond Broadway Experience gives young people between the ages of 8 and 25 years the opportunity to work with a professional team to put on a huge musical theatre show. Next year’s production will be Footloose, and I would encourage every young performer to get involved. This must, surely, have been a life-changing experience for everyone in the cast.
I am always inspired by youth theatre. These kids and young adults bring such energy and spontaneity to their work. Us old fogeys have a lot to learn from them. This production showcases the talents of the next generation of musical theatre performers. I wish every one of them the very best in their future careers.
Reviewer: Wendy McEwan
Reviewed: 26th July 2024
North West End UK Rating: