The inclusive production showcases a diverse cast and innovative choreography, aiming to redefine musical theater on the Great White Way.
Category: Arts & Culture
After a critically acclaimed, record-breaking, Obie-winning Off-Broadway debut at the PAC in 2024, CATS: The Jellicle Ball has officially leaped onto Broadway, captivating audiences at the Broadhurst Theatre in New York City with an open-ended engagement. This reimagined version of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, promises to blend tradition with innovation, introducing a fresh and inclusive vision to the beloved tale.
Directed by Obie Award winners Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch, the show features a diverse cast of 23 performers drawn from the realms of stage, screen, and drag Balls. This eclectic mix showcases a variety of talents and reflects the production’s commitment to inclusivity, representing LGBTQIA+, Ballroom culture, and other underrepresented communities.
As the audience enters the theater, they are transported from a junkyard setting to a dazzling, genderful Ballroom, thanks to the scenic design by Rachel Hauck. The new setting features a central runway and additional audience seating on both sides, creating an immersive experience where audience participation is encouraged. Throughout the performance, attendees are invited to cheer, clap, and snap their fans, making them feel like an integral part of the Jellicle Ball.
At the heart of the show is the annual Jellicle Ball, where the tribe of Jellicle cats gathers for a night of celebration. Their leader, Old Deuteronomy, played by the esteemed André De Shields, decides which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a new life. This year, the competition is intensified with segments of award-winning choreography by Ballroom megastars Arturo Lyons and Omari Wiles, who blend voguing, acrobatics, and ballet, all set to reinvented versions of Webber’s classic musical numbers infused with DJ rhythms.
The production has also sparked discussions surrounding accessibility in theater. The decision to offer dedicated ticket allocations through TDF (Theatre Development Fund) has been met with mixed reactions. Some hail it as a bold step toward making theater more accessible, particularly for underrepresented communities, whereas others question the impact such measures may have on traditional ticketing practices.
Among the standout performers is Ken Ard, who reprises his role as DJ Griddlebone after a 25-year hiatus from the Broadway stage. His return is celebrated, for his connection to the original 1982 cast and for his ability to engage the audience with his charisma and talent. Leiomy Maldonado, known as "The Wonder Woman of Vogue," brings her legendary moves to the role of Macavity, adding a contemporary flair to the character.
The diverse cast also includes rising stars like Bryson Battle, who gained fame as a finalist on The Voice, and Kya Azeen, known for her role in Pose. Their performances, alongside seasoned veterans like Sydney James Harcourt as the alluring Rum Tum Tugger, contribute to a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates individual expression and community.
Costume designer Qween Jean has created an array of fabulous fashions that range from a sparkling silver gown to an S&M-inspired ensemble, ensuring that the visual spectacle matches the energetic performances. The costumes, complemented by larger-than-life wigs and cisgender-defying makeup by Rania Zohny, create a flamboyant and colorful display that captures the essence of both the characters and the Ballroom culture.
As the show progresses, the audience witnesses a blend of heartfelt storytelling and electrifying performances. Each character presents themselves and their reasons for being chosen, leading to moments of laughter, reflection, and celebration of identity. The production emphasizes themes of community, respect, and pride, echoing with audiences from all walks of life.
With a running time of approximately two hours and 35 minutes, including an intermission, CATS: The Jellicle Ball is not just a musical; it is an experience that invites viewers to embrace their true selves. The show’s dynamic energy is heightened by a live eleven-piece orchestra, conducted by William Waldrop, who also oversees music direction and supervision.
Critics and audiences alike are eager to see how this innovative production will be received. Previews began on March 18, 2026, leading up to the official opening night on April 7, 2026. The anticipation surrounding the show is not just about its artistic merits but also about its potential to impact the Broadway theater scene significantly.
As the curtain rises on this new chapter of CATS, the production stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation. It seeks to redefine what Broadway can be, promoting inclusivity and representation in a way that has not been seen before. The success of this venture may pave the way for more diverse storytelling in theater, inspiring future generations of performers and audiences.
For those interested in experiencing this vibrant celebration of identity and community, CATS: The Jellicle Ball is currently playing at the Broadhurst Theatre, located at 235 West 44th Street, NYC. Tickets are available online, priced between $58 and $321, including fees, with discount options available via TodayTix.
As the production continues to evolve, it a landmark event in Broadway history, embodying the spirit of the Jellicle Ball and inviting everyone to come out and celebrate.