If you’re roaming around Georgetown, Texas, there’s a delightful escape waiting for you at the Georgetown Palace Theatre. The stage is alive with the furry drama of Cats, the beloved musical that has everyone talking – and giggling – this season. Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic has found new life, and it might just surprise you with how much charm it can muster, especially after that rather infamous movie adaptation.
You may wonder, why are people still buzzing about Cats? It’s all based on T.S. Eliot’s collection of whimsical poems, Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats. Eliot’s verses aren’t about tackling deep issues or heavy themes; instead, they celebrate a quirky bunch of cats with their own unique personalities and antics. When asked about the essence of Cats, Lloyd Webber succinctly replied, “It’s about cats.” And really, when you go into the theatre, that’s precisely what you want to enjoy – a journey into the whimsical world of Jellicle Cats.
When I first heard about this production, I admit my curiosity was piqued, mostly thanks to the past mishap of the film. But entering the Georgetown Palace Theatre, I was greeted by a wave of genuine enthusiasm from the cast that melted away any lingering skepticism I had. It was evident that they were not only proud to perform but were also just plain excited about celebrating these Jellicle Cats.
From the get-go, the cast filled the stage with their warmth and charisma, blending their unique styles through distinguished costumes crafted by the talented Kayla Bennett. Each ensemble was carefully designed, so no two cats looked alike. It feels like an artistic celebration of individuality, much like all the cats they portray! The creative makeup by Tessa Maxwell added a magical touch to every character, reinforcing the fact that these performers were not just humans playing cats but rather embodying the very essence of their characters.
Of course, we’d be remiss to overlook the sensational dance numbers that the musical is renowned for. Choreographed by the talented Evelyn Joy Hoelscher, the cast dazzled with moves that would put many seasoned dancers to shame. There’s a tap number that had that nostalgic flair, reminiscent of the classic days of musical theatre. Tap-dancing isn’t something you see every day anymore, and it certainly made the audience sit up and take notice.
Some standout performances captured the audience’s attention. Ripley Mayfield as the graceful Victoria and the athletically gifted Micaiah Armstrong blew us away with their exceptional abilities. Their duet, a sultry rendition of “Macavity,” is worth the ticket price on its own! And who could forget that infectious energy from Hayden Tran playing Rum Tum Tugger? Seriously, a cocky sneer never looked so charming!
While this production may not be the life-altering experience one might seek, it’s undoubtedly a wonderful night out filled with laughter, joy, and catchy tunes that will stick in your head long after the curtain falls. You may find yourself singing “Memory” on the drive home, and you won’t be able to resist the pull of a good old-fashioned belt-out! It’s hard to imagine leaving the theatre without it echoing in your head
So, if you’re in Georgetown and looking for a fantastic evening filled with furry fun, head on over to the Georgetown Palace Theatre before they wrap up their run of Cats on September 8. Gather your friends, bring your sense of humor, and enjoy an enchanting night with the Jellicle Cats!
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