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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Cats Also see Gil's reviews of Disney's Beauty and the Beast and Evil Dead The Musical
The plot, such as it is, centers on the annual gathering of the Jellicle Cats, a tribe of felines who come together for the Jellicle Ball. During the evening, many of the cats introduce themselves and tell their stories in song while their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy, observes. Ultimately, one cat will be chosen by Old Deuteronomy to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a new life. Based on "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats" by T.S. Eliot, Cats premiered in London's West End in 1981 before becoming one of the most successful musicals in Broadway history. It is essentially a collection of Eliot's poems adapted into song and dance numbers (music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and additional lyrics by Trevor Nunn and Richard Stilgoe), which explains its unconventional structure. Andrew Lloyd Webber's music remains one of the show's greatest strengths, blending pop, classical, and theatrical ballads into a memorable musical tapestry. The show's soaring ballad "Memory" has become one of the most famous songs ever written for the stage, while numbers such as "The Rum Tum Tugger," "Mr. Mistoffelees," and "Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats" remain audience favorites. As a musical, however, Cats has always been something of an acquired taste. Compared to more traditional book musicals that feature clear character arcs, dramatic conflict, and cohesive storytelling, Cats often feels like an extended revue with little connective tissue. Characters appear, perform their signature number, and then largely disappear off stage or into the background. While the concept is undeniably unique, the lack of a compelling narrative can make portions of the show feel repetitive and also, at times, confusing. If you go in expecting a fleshed-out musical with a dramatic throughline like Les Misérables or Sweeney Todd, you'll likely be disappointed. But if you view this musical as a series of songs that showcase the characters connected by dance and music, presented as a spectacle, it becomes much easier to appreciate. Fortunately, director and choreographer Kurtis Overby understands exactly what makes Cats work and leans fully into its strengths. This production radiates joy, playfulness, and wonder from start to finish; even I, a Cats curmudgeon, had a smile on my face many times. Overby's choreography is vibrant and athletic, capturing both feline grace and theatrical flair, while the musical numbers are staged with creativity. The talented cast dances magnificently throughout, maintaining remarkable energy combined with graceful cat-like poses and postures. Christian Fleming's scenic design is particularly imaginative, transforming the stage into a dazzling world inspired by the Las Vegas Neon Museum. Colorful neon signs and glowing structures framed against a moonlit nighttime sky create a dreamlike environment that feels both whimsical and slightly surreal. The lighting design by Cameron Filepas complements the setting beautifully, bathing the stage in vibrant colors and shadows that enhance the production's playful and dreamy atmosphere. Morgan Andersen's costumes and the wig and makeup designs by Chris Zizzo are an homage to the original Broadway creations while also offering some fun original touches. Among the many feline personalities, Grizabella, the older cat who has been ostracized by the rest of the group, emerges as the emotional heart of the show, and the deep sense of longing and vulnerability Gabrielle Gore brings to the role gives the evening its most moving moments; her delivery of "Memory" is quite impressive. As Old Deuteronomy, Peter Lake provides wisdom and quiet authority as the respected leader of the Jellicle tribe along with a gorgeous singing voice. Roberto Silva-Neto is an irresistible bundle of swagger and charisma as Rum Tum Tugger, who easily wins over his fellow felines along with the audience. As Munkustrap, Brody Awalt's sense of authority and charm makes the character serve as an effective narrator who guides us through the events of the ball. Jordan Linton dazzles as Mr. Mistoffelees, delivering one of the production's most upbeat numbers with some very impressive dance abilities. In addition to their non-stop, impressive dance moves, the rest of the cast exhibit singing voices that are clear and bright under Adam Berger's effective music direction. While Cats is certainly not among my favorite musicals, and I continue to have reservations about both its thin plot and its delightfully absurd premise, there is no denying the effectiveness of Arizona Broadway Theatre's production. By pulling out all the stops with outstanding performances, energetic direction, inventive design elements, and excellent choreography, the creative team has crafted a highly entertaining evening of theatrical spectacle. Fans of the musical will find plenty to love, and skeptics may discover themselves charmed by the show's peculiar magic. Cats runs through July 25, 2026, at Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 West Paradise Lane, Peoria AZ. For tickets and information, please visit www.azbroadway.org or call 623-776-8400. Director/Choreographer: Kurtis Overby Cast: |
