From the moment the lights dimmed and the first familiar notes of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s score filled the Lyric Theatre, it was clear this production of CATS was something electric. It delivered a night of pure theatrical magic that earned a thunderous standing ovation on opening night at QPAC. While Cats has long been considered a hit-or-miss musical, this Australian staging proves unequivocally a hit, brimming with precision, camp flair and wild Jellicle energy.
The choreography was razor-sharp and utterly mesmerising, with each ensemble piece radiating an intensity that pulled the audience deep into this whimsical feline world. Beneath the glitter and theatricality, however, sat something more human — flashes of fragility and longing that gave the spectacle genuine emotional weight.
That camp energy was palpable from start to finish, and the cast’s incredible voices were out of this world, delivering soaring harmonies and powerhouse solos that lingered long after the final bow. From sultry ballads to high-octane numbers, the vocal prowess amplified the nostalgic, rock-infused 80s sound of Webber’s score, making it feel both comfortingly familiar and thrillingly immediate.
One of the night’s most delightful touches was the immersive staging: several of the fierce felines prowled through the aisles, playful and commanding, inviting the audience into their tribe. The costumes were stunning, alive with texture and movement, while the lush orchestrations swept through the theatre with cinematic grandeur. Even sceptics of this famously quirky musical would have struggled not to be won over by the commitment and star quality of this all-talent cast.
Gabriyel Thomas shone as Grizabella, delivering an emotionally powerful and vocally stunning performance that showcased intense vulnerability while coexisting beautifully with undeniable inner strength. Her rendition of ‘Memory’ was a career highlight, commanding silence before unleashing waves of applause.
Classical performer Mark Vincent returned to the stage as Old Deuteronomy, the wise and steady patriarch of the Jellicle tribe, bringing commanding presence and warmth, his rich, velvety tone lending authority while still allowing moments of compassion to glow through.
Todd McKenney brought warmth and charm to Bustopher Jones and Asparagus, anchoring the production with ease while allowing moments of gentle humour to shine. Des Flanagan’s Rum Tum Tugger was strutting, bold, and magnetic, devouring every moment onstage. Jarrod Draper’s Munkustrap provided a grounded, narrative spine, guiding the tribe and audience with clarity. Leigh Archer as Jennyanydots and Lucy Maunder as Jellylorum added comic flair, warmth, and heart to the ensemble.
Tom Davis delivered a buoyant Skimbleshanks with crisp footwork and effortless charm, while Tim Haskayne’s Mr Mistoffelees dazzled with turns and leaps that brought the house down. Claudia Hastings’ Victoria / White Cat was liquid and elegant, offering some of the production’s most visually poetic moments, while Mia Dabkowski-Chandler’s Bombalurina exuded sleek confidence and vocal power.
Jake O’Brien’s Mungojerrie charmed with nimble mischief, and Savannah Lind’s Rumpleteazer sparkled with precision and energy. Ella Fitzpatrick’s Jemima radiated sincerity, Joshua Gordon’s Coricopat added alert physicality, and Guy Pik’s Carbuckety was kinetic and lively. Rania Potaka-Osborne impressed as Alonzo, Edward Smith shifted compellingly between Admetus and Macavity, and Charlie Follows brought playful energy as Bill Bailey. Amy Berrisford stepped in as Demeter with assured movement and dramatic understanding, while Emily Casey’s Cassandra was striking and focused, making the role feel fully realised.
The production’s polish was also a testament to its exceptional swing team. Dominique Hamilton, Aimee Jones, Joe Miller, Xavier Pellin, Thalia Smith and Tod Strike covered multiple tracks in a show of immense physical and vocal demand, stepping into the Jellicle world with confidence, versatility and focus, ensuring continuity, precision and seamless flow.
In its return to Brisbane, this Cats proves that when performed with passion, belief and unapologetic theatricality, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical can still mesmerise. It’s a spectacle of fierce felines, unforgettable voices, dazzling design and nostalgic sonic punch — but it’s the balance of vulnerability and resilience at its heart that left the Lyric Theatre roaring with approval.
LIMITED TICKETS
Now Playing at the Lyric Theatre, QPAC
Until 22 February
All images supplied.
The Fame Reporter 