The famously popular Broadway musical CATS has returned to the Beef & Boards dinner theater stage, wowing audiences with energetic performances, seemingly flawless choreography, breathtaking acrobatics, and such a fabulous look. Each cat has its own unique style and presence. It’s a triumph in costuming, make-up, and performance.
“Our individual looks really help our character development,” said performer Amy Owens, who was in the production of CATS at B & B five years ago and is excited to play Bombalurina this time around. “Once I’m in full makeup and costume, I no longer feel like Amy singing a song or dancing a dance. The work of Meghan Caye Warren (wardrobe), Andrew Elliot (wigs), and Drew Bryson (makeup) really help transform each of us. I personally feel more confident as a performer being so physically transformed. It’s almost like a confidence building disguise.”
Beloved by musical enthusiasts worldwide, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS has been mesmerizing audiences since 1982 and was one of the longest running shows in Broadway history. CATS has been presented in over 30 countries, translated into 16 languages, and seen by more than 73 million people worldwide.
“As a dancer, CATS is the ultimate show! We are constantly moving. I love that it’s just song after song, no scenes of strictly dialogue whatsoever. I believe it’s as successful as it is because of how well it moves. There aren’t really opportunities to get bored,” said Owens.
The cast brings an amazing energy to the production, while capturing the playful attitude, beauty, and grace of the feline species. “We spent a good amount of time developing our individual characters and how we all interact with each other. We put a lot of heart into this production and I believe our audiences can see and feel that,” said Owens, a regular on the Beef & Boards stage.
CATS devotees will be pleased with this production; the vocals are impressive, the choreography is breathtaking, and the costumes are so much fun. And CATS newcomers (kittens?) will be won over by the beautiful music, the captivating feline characters, and most of all by the dazzling spectacle of movement. The choreography is nothing short of amazing. There were as many as 21 performers on stage at once, interacting and dancing with feline grace, accented by incredible acrobatics.
“The cats are flying around the stage in this production and there are a lot of us in a small space,” said Owens. “Every movement was carefully thought out and staged by our director/choreographer Anne Beck. This talented cast is filled with actors who all bring different skill sets. We are fortunate to have some great tumblers and even an excellent cirque artist in our cast and their skills are highlighted in the production.”
CATS is a must see for anyone who loves musicals, dance, or the feline species. CATS is playing at Beef & Boards through November 22nd. Seats are limited, but still available for most dates. Get your tickets today at beefandboards.com or call the box office at 317-872-9664.
