Get ready for a purr-fectly fabulous show! The iconic musical 'Cats' is about to get a sizzling makeover as it transforms into 'Cats: The Jellicle Ball' and struts its way to Broadway this spring. But this isn't your typical revival!
Prepare to be whisked away to a dazzling drag ballroom competition, where the beloved feline characters will captivate audiences with their unique blend of singing, dancing, and drag artistry. This innovative reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber's classic musical is set to shake up the theater scene, leaving fans divided and critics intrigued.
Following successful runs of reimagined Lloyd Webber productions like the immersive 'Phantom of the Opera' and the stripped-down 'Sunset Blvd.', this new interpretation of 'Cats' promises to be a fresh and daring take on a beloved classic. With previews starting March 18, 2026, at the Broadhurst Theatre, the show is already generating buzz. And the anticipation is real, especially after the original production's long Broadway run from 1982 to 2000, its 2016 revival, and the infamous 2019 film adaptation.
The talented cast features Tony Award winner André De Shields as Old Deuteronomy, Sydney James Harcourt and Tara Lashan Clinkscales as Rum Tum Tugger, Chasity "Tempress" Moore as Grizabella, and Junior LaBeija as Gus, reprising their roles from the Off-Broadway production. Joining them are Jonathan Burke, Baby Byrne, and a host of other talented performers, each bringing their own flair to the stage.
But here's where it gets controversial: some fans might wonder if this new version strays too far from the original's charm. Will the drag ballroom concept enhance the magic of 'Cats' or create an unexpected clash of styles? Only time will tell, and the debate is sure to be fierce among theater enthusiasts.
With directors Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch at the helm, and choreography by Omari Wiles and Arturo Lyons, this production is in capable hands. And as the latest addition to the ever-evolving world of Lloyd Webber musicals, 'Cats: The Jellicle Ball' is poised to leave its mark on Broadway.
Are you team traditional or ready for a revolutionary 'Cats' experience? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
