Cats

Definition

Cats, in the context of American musicals, refers to a celebrated musical created by Andrew Lloyd Webber that premiered in 1981. It is based on T.S. Eliot's collection of poems 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats' and has become iconic for its unique blend of music, dance, and visual storytelling, showcasing a variety of feline characters through song and choreography.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Cats' features memorable songs such as 'Memory', which has become one of the most recognizable pieces from the musical.
2. The musical is known for its innovative staging and use of choreography, with dancers portraying cats through intricate movements and expressions.
3. 'Cats' was one of the longest-running shows on Broadway and remains a significant part of musical theatre history.
4. The show introduced a unique narrative style that blends individual cat stories with a larger theme of community and belonging among the Jellicle Cats.
5. 'Cats' has been adapted into various formats, including a 2019 film version that brought the story to a new audience.

Review Questions

• How does 'Cats' utilize character development to convey themes of community and identity among the Jellicle Cats?
  • 'Cats' effectively uses character development by presenting individual stories for each Jellicle Cat, which showcases their unique personalities, struggles, and desires. This allows the audience to connect with the characters on an emotional level. The musical intertwines these personal narratives with the larger theme of community as the Jellicle Cats come together for their annual gathering, highlighting their shared experiences and the importance of belonging.
• Discuss the significance of T.S. Eliot's influence on 'Cats' and how his literary style is reflected in the musical's structure and content.
  • 'Cats' draws heavily from T.S. Eliot's playful and imaginative poetry found in 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats'. His whimsical language and vivid imagery are reflected in the musical's structure, which presents a series of vignettes that introduce different feline characters. The show captures Eliot's tone by using both humor and pathos in its storytelling, allowing audiences to appreciate the complexity of each cat while maintaining an engaging narrative flow.
• Evaluate how 'Cats' has impacted the landscape of American musicals since its premiere and what factors contribute to its enduring popularity.
  • 'Cats' has had a lasting impact on American musicals since its premiere due to its innovative approach to storytelling through music and dance, setting new standards for theatrical productions. Factors contributing to its enduring popularity include its memorable score, strong visual elements, and the universal appeal of its themes surrounding identity and belonging. The show's ability to resonate with audiences across generations has made it a beloved classic, influencing countless other musicals in terms of creative staging and character exploration.

Related terms

Andrew Lloyd Webber: A prominent British composer known for his work in musical theatre, responsible for creating numerous hit musicals, including 'Cats', 'The Phantom of the Opera', and 'Evita'.

T.S. Eliot:

An influential American-British poet, playwright, and literary critic whose poetry inspired the musical 'Cats', particularly through his whimsical and imaginative portrayal of cats in 'Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats'.

Jellicle Cats: The central characters in 'Cats', these are a special group of cats who gather for the Jellicle Ball to make their choice for ascent to the Heaviside Layer, where they can be reborn.