Cats
Information
- Date
- 1st December 2018
- Society
- Margate Operatic Society
- Venue
- Winter Gardens Margate
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Donna Clements
- Musical Director
- Phil Hughes
- Choreographers
- Donna Clements/Amy Simpson/Stacy Sproates
- Assistant Director
- Stephen Porter
CATS really needs no introduction, it has after all been around for over 18 years on Broadway and 21 in the West End. The musical, based on Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot, tells the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles and the night they, "make what is known as the 'Jellicle choice'", deciding which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and come back to a new life. We are introduced to all the various Jellicle Cats in turn and the tension mounts as we await the decision from Old Deuteronomy.
Directed by Donna Clements and assisted by Stephen Porter, this musical was visually and vocally stunning. The mannerisms and characteristics that each individual member displayed were outstanding and it enabled the audience to quickly get to grips with the characters and the overall visuals. The set looked authentic and was well used throughout. I especially liked the roof top that came out into the audience with workable entrances within it. Lighting worked well and created the extra atmosphere when needed.
The orchestra who were ably led by Phil Hughes were excellent, really allowing the singers to put so much feeling and character into their songs. In fact the opening song, “Jellicle Cats” was sung so superbly that it raised the hairs on the back of my neck. That was possibly the last time during the entire show that this talented cast were still as they danced and mewed their way through the entire production. The slick choreography was varied both in style and inventiveness. If at times a little crowded, all the cast worked hard to execute the routines accurately. A special mention must go to Beyonce Sunley-Patel who played Victoria (The White Cat). Showing such strong dance technique you couldn’t help but be captivated. Another special mention must go to the costume, wigs and make-up teams. There is nothing more to say, other than, I can see the hard work that has gone into this production and your work was outstanding! Well done to all involved!
This was truly an ensemble effort from start to finish and not a single performer let the side down at any time. Having said that, there were certainly some stars, and quite a few highlights, but as I work through those, all the performers I don’t highlight should be in no doubt that this is not intended in any way to suggest that they were anything short of excellent.
I loved ‘Bustopher Jones: The Cat About Town’ played by Drayson Goldfinch and the choreography of ‘Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer’, played by Amy Simpson and Brya Porter was simply remarkable. My heart went out to the two performers who also had to sing whilst delivering a routine that would have killed most professional dancers. There were a few breathless lines but I think that is perfectly acceptable in such an energetic production number.
Grizabella was played by Molly Knight. Molly commanded the stage every time she came on. She had a great status and a great stage presence. Molly’s vocals were outstanding! Her rendition of ‘Memory’ was nothing short of perfection. Neil Paterson was great as Munkustrap bringing his role to life from the very start and captivating the audience with his lovely smooth vocals. Steve Porter was very entertaining Rum Tum Tugger. There were times when his hip thrusting was more uncomfortable looking than irresistible but that could be forgiven due to his great vocals and brilliant energy.
The ‘Magical Mr Mistoffelees’ routine was excellent and Alex Castle showed what an accomplished dancer he was. I just wish he had brought his face to life a little more as he appeared to be a rather serious cat! Ben Chapman did well as Skimbleshanks and Stacey Sproates certainly enjoyed herself as Jenny Anydots.
There was so much to look at and so much to enjoy it is really saying something that my favourite part in this exceptional show was ‘Gus The Theatre Cat’. Dave Underwood played Gus with such tenderness and sincerity that I felt my eyes getting a little wet! I would also like to mention Karen Wilshaw as Jellylorum. No matter what this actress was doing she was invested throughout. A real masterclass in animal performance.
As an ensemble piece I adored the commitment to characterisations and the core strength that the company all had to create their character. I loved the small moments when they weren’t in the spotlight and every single person stayed in role throughout. The vocals were very strong and it’s plain to see why Margate Operatic Society is at the top of its game, winning awards year on year.
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