Cats lovers will lap this up
CATS IT seems there are two types of people in the world — those who love Cats (the musical), and those who don’t. There’s virtually nothing in between. If you are one of the former you must see the new production from NQOMT.
There are quite a number of differences in this latest version. The setting is still the rear of the Russell Hotel, but this is a post-apocalyptic London. The area is in ruins, the result of some devastating catastrophe. The only existing life seems to be a group of felines. But what a fine clowder of cats they are.
Everywhere you look, the 32 members of the cast are cats. They clean, they preen, they all look every part a cat. No breaking character because you’re in the back of the set and can hardly be seen. No. Every moment is acted, every one sticks to their unique feline personality throughout.
This is helped by amazing makeup, hair and costumes. Each catsuit is individually made and virtually a work of art. Stunning.
Some of the lead characters carry the story along while almost continually on stage. Munkustrap (Mark Whittaker), Rum Tum Tugger (the inimitable Jeremiah Pau), Demeter (Mikaela Kelly-irvin) and Bombalurina (the enchanting Katie Grice) are just four of these. Add delightful performances by Shannon Doyle as Jellyorum, Denise Higgins as Jennyanydots, Tiffany Hone and Brady Cronin as Rumpleteazer and Mungojerrie … in fact there are just too many to mention, but the entire ensemble gave superb performances.
For others there is a series of cameos; Bustopher Jones (Paddy Higgins, in a role that could have been written for him), Gus (the legendary Bill Munro in a welcome return, albeit briefly, to Townsville), Old Deuteronomy (Brent Lammas, with his stunning operatic voice) and the lead and most famous role of Grizabella beautifully played with enormous emotion by Shelley Keen. Her interpretation of Memory is beautiful.
But the star turn was Dane Reid in the role of Mr Mistoffelees. This young man mesmerises with his dancing brilliance. He made the almost impossible seem easy, with his turns, leaps and bounds. A truly memorable performance.
The set design by Em Molloy and Chris Ahern deserves its own ovation, while the lighting and sound design are impeccable. The amazing choreography is by the director, Rachel Ahern, and Jane Pirani and their ballet sequence is outstanding.
It almost goes without saying these days that the orchestra will be first class, and musical director Mark Smith has assembled a talented 18piece band that could not be faulted.
Congratulations to Rachel Ahern, directing her first musical. She proved that this musical may have been performed before, but she breathed new life into these cats. Maybe they do have nine lives.
All remaining performances of Cats are sold out, but if you wish to join a waiting list for tickets, contact the Civic Theatre on 4727 9797. It is wonderful to see a top quality musical back in our premier theatre. EMAIL YOUR GIG DETAILS TO WEEK OF PUBLICATION. — RAY DICKSON
from 7.30pm
Karaoke – Ross Island Hotel from 8pm
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Twista – Kirwan Tavern from 9pm
Paul White – Heritage Exchange’s Public Bar from 10.30pm
Elise Teitzel – Seaview Hotel from 12.30pm
Josie Roberts, Elise Teitzel, Motions – Fire in the Sky on The Strand from 4pm Bridget O’shaunessy – Seaview Hotel from 6pm Euphoria – Bohle Barn from 6pm
Say Watt – Herbert Hotel from 6pm
Midlife Crisis – Ross Island Hotel from 7.30pm
Variety Dance Night – Wulguru Community Centre BY 9AM MONDAY THE Hall from 7.30pm
Karaoke – The Vale Hotel from 9pm
Kinder – Otherwise Bar from 9pm
Tammy Moxon – Heritage Exchange’s Whisky Room from 9.30pm
Caitlin & Jase – Heritage Exchange’s Piano Bar from 10.30pm
Marathon – Mundingburra Markets from 8am
Rhys Gillman – Cotters Markets, Flinders Square from 9am
Bridget O’shaunessy – Bushland Beach Tavern from noon
Miella Sartori – A Touch of Salt from noon
Dave Graffin – Seaview Hotel from 12.30pm
Michelle Plozza – The Avenues Tavern from 2pm Dan Franett – Bohle Barn from 3pm