2 minute read
MAKING A NEW MEMORY
CATS, the record-breaking musical spectacular by Andrew Lloyd Webber that has captivated audiences in over 30 countries and 15 languages, is still on tour across North America, and returns to Louisville next season. Audiences and critics alike are rediscovering this beloved musical with breathtaking music, including one of the most treasured songs in musical theater, "Memory." Winner of seven Tony Awards, CATS tells the story of one magical night when an extraordinary tribe of cats gathers for its annual ball to rejoice and decide which cat will be reborn.
The original score by Andrew Lloyd Webber (The Phantom of the Opera, School of Rock, Sunset Boulevard), original scenic and costume design by John Napier (Les Misérables), all-new lighting design by Natasha Katz (Aladdin), all-new sound design by Mick Potter, new choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler (Hamilton) based on the original choreography by Gillian Lynne (Phantom) and direction by Trevor Nunn (Les Misérables) make this production a new CATS for a new generation!
CATS: NOW AND FOREVER
Ever since its first performance in May 1981, CATS has been enthralling audiences around the world and has become one of the most successful shows ever written.
Keri René Fuller as Grizabella in the North American Tour of CATS. Photo by Matthew Murphy 2019.
Don't miss your chance to make a new memory when CATS returns to Louisville.
DID YOU KNOW...
-CATS was inspired by Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot, a series of poems about cats published in 1939. The reason Eliot chose this title is because “Possum” was his alias amongst his friends. 2019 marks the 80th anniversary of Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats being published. CATS had its world premiere on May 11, 1981, at the New London Theatre. CATS premiered on Broadway at the Winter Garden Theatre in 1982 and later went on to win seven 1983 TONY Awards, including Best Musical and Best Original Score. CATS ran for 18 years on Broadway – one of the longest running shows in Broadway history!
-CATS has continued to pop up in your favorite TV and movies, including School of Rock, Sex and the City, Modern Family, Family Guy and The Simpsons.
-More than 150 artists ranging from Barry Manilow to Joni Mitchell have recorded the show’s hit song, “Memory.”
-Betty Buckley won the 1983 Tony Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her role as Grizabella in the original Broadway production of CATS.
Tickets and info at: louisville.broadway.com
