Birmingham Hippodrome – until 7th November 2026
Reviewed by Emma Millward
4****
Cats has arrived at Birmingham Hippodrome. With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics inspired by T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the show introduces the Jellicle cats, each with their own distinctive character and story to tell. Led by the wise Old Deuteronomy (Kalisha Amaris), they gather once a year to decide which cat will be given the chance to begin a new life.
The story is told almost entirely through song, making the narrative feel loose and confusing at times. However, the variety-show format allows individual cats to take centre stage, giving the performers plenty of opportunities to showcase their personalities. Jennyanydots (Laura Tyrer) was among my favourites. She made the most of her moment in the spotlight, engaging with the audience during her number, and continued to catch the eye later through her expressive facial expressions. Danny Nattrass and Briana Craig brought a cheeky, Cockney-style charm to Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer. Elliot Broadfoot’s dual roles as Gus and Bustopher Jones added an amusing touch, particularly as he bounced and twerked his way around the stage as the rather rotund Bustopher. Jaydon Vijn’s Rum Tum Tugger worked the stage well, even if he lacked some of the swagger I have seen in previous versions of the character.
Drew McOnie’s direction and choreography keep the action moving, with the precise movements particularly effective during the fighting sequences. Sami Fendall’s set, costume and wig design help establish the cats’ world, giving each character a distinctive look. Gone are the furry costumes of old, replaced by sleek leotards and bodysuits. Jessica Hung Han Yun’s lighting helps create an otherworldly atmosphere, particularly when the much-feared Macavity finally appears. Played by Dianté Lodge, he makes an eerie impression, with his tall, devil-like ears and confrontations with the other cats giving him a menacing presence.
Jet Yau brings a fresh twist to Mr Mistoffelees, with an impressive breakdancing sequence that adds a contemporary edge and provides one of the evening’s standout moments. Although Grizabella (Louise Dearman) has relatively limited stage time, her isolation is clear whenever she appears, with the other cats recoiling from her. When she sings Memory, Dearman draws the audience in, delivering one of the evening’s emotional highlights. The moment Grizabella is accepted back into the group is genuinely touching, prompting an audible “aww” from the audience.
Under Geraint Owen’s musical direction, the numbers remain a major strength, with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score still managing to feel fresh and the ensemble maintaining the lively energy throughout.
While the loose narrative occasionally makes Cats difficult to follow, the individual character performances and wonderful score make it an entertaining experience. It may not always be straightforward, but there is plenty to enjoy.
A playful, quirky delight.