Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cats has danced its way back to the Theatre Royal Sydney in its 40th Anniversary Australian tour, promising the nostalgia of the original production with direction and choreography faithful to Trevor Nunn and Gillian Lynne’s legendary vision. Unfortunately, while this revival retains the show’s classic structure and impressive movement vocabulary, its execution often feels like a missed opportunity, weighed down by under-rehearsal and mismatched vocal styling.
There’s no denying the energy on stage. From the moment the Jellicle Cats slink into view, the cast throws themselves into the complex dance numbers with infectious enthusiasm. But as the opening number “Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats” unfolds, it quickly becomes apparent that this production struggles to match its ambition with polish. Lyrics are forgotten or garbled, harmonies are tentative, and the tight ensemble work the show relies upon is too often just out of sync. It’s the kind of looseness that suggests a production either rushed into performance or under-supported during rehearsal.
The larger structural challenge for this iteration lies in its vocal presentation. Cats was written with classical voices in mind—lyrical phrasing, vibrato, and supported tone are part of its musical DNA. However, many in this cast bring a contemporary musical theatre style to the score, favouring belt over blend. While this might connect with modern audiences accustomed to Wicked or Six, it does a disservice to the show’s original textures. Numbers like “Memory” and “The Naming of Cats” lose their ethereal mystique when tackled with raw modern belt rather than delicate artistry.
Where this production shines is in its dance. The choreography remains a physically demanding showcase of feline grace, stylised ballet, and jazz precision, and the ensemble clearly relishes the chance to leap, pirouette and slink across the stage in Lynne’s original style. This is a dancer’s show through and through, and the energy poured into the movement sequences is commendable.
Among the cast, Tom Davis stands out with a crisp and cheeky rendition of Skimbleshanks, his tap break injecting a welcome sense of theatrical fun. Alex Alvarez dazzles as the magical Mr Mistoffelees, executing his choreography with precision and poise. Leigh Archer is another bright spot as the playful Jennyanydots, bringing charm and humour to her number. However, the emotional core of the production comes from veteran performer Todd McKenney, whose touching portrayal of the aged theatre cat Asparagus brings a rare sincerity and gravitas to the otherwise glitter-heavy proceedings. His performance is quiet, honest, and deeply affecting, reminding us what Cats can be at its best.
For newcomers to Cats, this tour may still delight with its bold costumes, kinetic choreography, and eccentric characters. But for returning fans or musical theatre purists, this anniversary revival struggles to rise above the sum of its parts. It’s a production that leans on nostalgia, but in doing so, exposes the cracks in a classic that needs more than just memory to purr again.
– The other Daniel Craig
Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world trying new gin. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig
CATS runs for 2 hours 20 minutes (with 20-minute interval) and plays at The Theatre Royal Sydney, through 6 September 2025. Tickets are available through Theatre Royal Sydney.
Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of IP Publicity.
Image credit: Daniel Boud
