The 40th Australian Anniversary tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s CATS has arrived in Melbourne with a triumphant leap, and Hamer Hall has been transformed into a shimmering playground of poetry, music and movement, reminding audiences exactly why this record-breaking musical has enchanted the world for more than four decades.
Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats and set to Lloyd Webber’s endlessly inventive score, CATS remains a singular theatrical experience. The simple yet profound premise, one cat chosen by Old Deuteronomy to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn, unfolds with warmth, wit and emotional resonance.
From the first swelling notes of the overture, the production wraps the audience in its mysterious, moonlit atmosphere, drawing us into the world of the Jellicle cats as they gather for their most sacred night of the year: the Jellicle Ball.
This anniversary production honours the legendary original creative team of Trevor Nunn, Gillian Lynne and John Napier, while feeling freshly alive under the recreation by associate director and choreographer Chrissie Cartwright.
The choreography remains a thrilling fusion of ballet, jazz and feline physicality, executed with precision and infectious energy by an exceptional cast. Every leap, ripple and prowling movement reinforces the illusion that these performers are truly otherworldly creatures, not merely dancers in costume.
Musically, the show soars. Paul White’s musical direction and the rich, full sound of the live orchestra elevate Lloyd Webber’s score, from the playful ensemble numbers to the iconic ballads that have become part of musical theatre history.
One notable update in this anniversary production is the removal of Growltiger’s Last Stand from Act Two, a decision that streamlines the narrative while keeping the tone buoyant and inclusive for contemporary audiences. In its place, The Awefull Battle of the Pekes and the Pollicles has been relocated from Act One, and the change proves surprisingly effective.
Standout performances abound. Gabriyely Thomas delivers a deeply moving portrayal of Grizabella, her rendition of Memory is haunting and ultimately shattering. Mark Vincent brings gravitas and generosity to Old Deuteronomy, anchoring the production with warmth and authority. Todd McKenney, in the dual roles of Bustopher Jones and Asparagus the Theatre Cat, blends humour and nostalgia with theatrical flair.
Elsewhere, Des Flanagan’s Rum Tum Tugger crackles with rebellious charisma, Tim Haskayne delights as Mr Mistoffelees, and Tom Davis brings plenty of charm a Skimbleshanks, the Railway Cat.
The supporting cast, Lucy Maunder (Jellylorum), Jarrod Draper (Munkustrap), Leigh Archer (Jennyanydots, the Gumbie Cat), Savannah Lind (Rumpleteazer) and Jake O’Brien (Mungojerrie), ensure the Jellicle tribe feels vibrant, cohesive and alive in every moment.
After captivating more than 81 million people worldwide, CATS still has the power to astonish. This 40th Australian Anniversary tour is a heartfelt and exhilarating celebration of a musical that continues to land gracefully on its feet. This limited season is a reminder that some legends don’t just endure, they purr.
CATS
Hamer Hall – Arts Centre Melbourne, 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne
Season continues to 31 January 2026
Following the Melbourne season, CATS will play the Lyric Theatre – QPAC, Brisbane from 6 February 2026. For more information, visit: www.catsthemusical.com.au for details.
Images: Gabriyel Thomas as Grizabella in CATS – photo by Daniel Boud | The Cast of CATS – photo by Daniel Boud | Savannah Lind as Rumpleteazer and Jake O’Brien as Mungojerrie in CATS – photo by Daniel Boud | Des Flanagan as Rum Tum Tugger and the Cast of CATS – photo by Daniel Boud
Review: Rohan Shearn