Cats - Now On It's Ninth Life And Counting! (Cats)

Member Name: Nibelung

Product:	Cats
Date:	15/02/02 (198 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Good pace, Well-known music

Disadvantages: Recurring theme a bit monotonous

Not one of my longer opinions, but it's more of a wake-up call to anyone in the London area who thinks that they could go to see "Cats" any time, after all, it's been on for years hasn't it?

I don't suppose that there are many people who haven't heard of the Andrew Lloyd-Weber's musical "Cats".

Based on T S Elliot's poems from "Old Possum's Book Of Practical Cats", it has been part of the London theatre scene for many years.

In fact, it has been staged at the New London Theatre, Drury Lane WC2, for most of the venue's lifespan, having been built and opened to the public in 1973.

Unlike other West End houses, the theatre is built to the modern standard of circular stage with the audience on three quarters of its circumference and for this reason, the production really seems at home here.

I have now seen "Cats"? twice in the last 15 years, the last time being a couple of weeks ago, (02/02/2002). The chances to see "Cats", either for the first or a subsequent time are lessening by the day, as the musical has some 12 more weeks to run before ending its marathon.

The nice thing about seeing something twice, is that the second time gives you the opportunity to concentrate on detail rather than trying to gain an overall impression or just soaking up atmosphere.

I'll give you an example of what I mean.

The first time, my seat was rather a long way back, which was ideal for viewing the whole cast in their combined dance routines and for listening to the music. Back in those days, Brian Blessed was in it playing .....er.... whatever it is that he does best...oh yes, I know, talking very LOUDLY. Elaine Page sang the famous bits and Paul Nicholas was the sexy alley cat, Rumtumtugger.

However, the second time without even noticing who was in it, afforded me the opportunity to sit in the front row, whi
ch incidentally is on the same turntable as the stage, so just before the performance, you find yourself tracking through 180 degrees along with the set. For those who like to leave where they came in, this can be confusing. Disappointingly, this is the only use the rotating stage has in the whole performance.

In the front row, you get to notice things. Things like how well the cast emulate cats and all their little mannerisms, like reaching a "paw" out to your ice cream, and then snatching it back as you move to protect your food. The way that cats blink, with that "I'?m just d-o-z-i-n-g off - no I'm not!" kind of slow motion.

Also, the way they act and sniff around each other - just as well it?s not called "Dogs"? really!

On second exposure, I found the music a trifle repetitive, with a common recurring theme frequently rearing its head. The solo ballads now tend to leave me cold, whereas, first time round with Elaine Page singing, it was altogether different. The character of Rumtumtugger, a street-wise slinky Tom with thrusting hips was very amusingly portrayed, but now that I've seen Cat in Red Dwarf, I start to see the similarities! - Of course, I know that "Cats" did it first

If you've not seen it, but think you'd like to, then hurry. If you want to make one more visit for old time'?s sake, then try and get a seat near the stage - there'?s a wealth of detail to keep you amused, even if you do know the songs backwards!

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