The iconic musical CATS is returning to Australia to celebrate its 40th anniversary, bringing its magical blend of music, dance, and feline charm to audiences across the country. The tour, produced by John Frost for Crossroads Live, will kick off at the Theatre Royal Sydney, the very venue where the groundbreaking musical premiered in Australia in 1985, marking the beginning of the "mega-musical" era.
Due to overwhelming demand, extra performances have been added to the Sydney season, extending the run until August 10th. Pre-sale for these additional shows is open now, with general public sales commencing on Friday.
But the feline festivities don't stop in Sydney. Frost also announced that CATS will be enchanting audiences in Adelaide at Her Majesty’s Theatre from September, followed by a Melbourne season at Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne, in December. Enthusiastic fans in these cities can join the waitlist now at www.catsthemusical.com.au to be among the first to secure their tickets.
"CATS is a legendary show that I’ve admired for over 40 years," says John Frost. "A sparkling fusion of music, dance and verse, it was revolutionary when it first opened and enticed new audiences into the world of musical theatre. I can’t wait to bring the original production of CATS back to Australia to celebrate its 40th anniversary, not only to Theatre Royal Sydney where it all began, but also to Adelaide and Melbourne. Australia has an enduring love for CATS and it’s time to let the memory live again.”
Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats and set to Andrew Lloyd Webber’s captivating music, CATS has become a global phenomenon. Since its 1981 debut in London, it has been seen by over 81 million people worldwide, translated into 23 languages, and garnered numerous awards, including seven Tony Awards.
The musical follows the Jellicle cats as they gather for their annual Jellicle Ball, where Old Deuteronomy, their wise leader, selects one cat to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn. The timeless score features the unforgettable hit "Memory," performed by over 150 artists, including Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand, and Delta Goodrem.
With its breathtaking choreography, spectacular sets, and a superb cast, CATS promises a magical theatrical experience for audiences of all ages. Don't miss the opportunity to witness this legendary musical and let the memory live again.
Sydney Season Details:
- Venue: Theatre Royal Sydney
- Season: From 17 June (Extended performances until 10 August)
- Performance Times: Tues-Thurs 7pm, Fri-Sat 7.30pm, Wed 1pm, Sat 2pm, Sun 1pm & 6pm
- Prices: From $69.90 (Transaction fees apply)
- Bookings: catsthemusical.com.au or 1300 163 808
Adelaide Season:
- Venue: Her Majesty’s Theatre
- Season: From September
- Waitlist: catsthemusical.com.au
Melbourne Season:
- Venue: Hamer Hall, Arts Centre Melbourne
- Season: From December
- Waitlist: catsthemusical.com.au