Prowling on Prom! Cats crew in town

Musical magic is set to cast its spell over Blackpool, with the full cast and crew of CATS now in town.

Theatre fans will be able to make new memories at the Opera House when the production – direct from the London Palladium – opens next week.

Jane McDonald and the cast of Cats settle into Blackpool, taking in the sights

placeholder image — Jane McDonald and the cast of Cats settle into Blackpool, taking in the sights

A preview purr-formance will take place on Thursday, ahead of Friday’s opening night show for the eight-week run.

Singer and presenter Jane McDonald, who is starring as Grizabella, said: “I am thrilled to finally be in Blackpool.

“We have been having a great time in rehearsals and now we are at the Winter Gardens we are all getting very excited about the show opening.

“It is going to be a great summer and I am really looking forward to performing in Blackpool and being part of such a wonderful and huge production.”

Adapted from TS Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, with a musical score that includes the timeless Memory sung by Jane’s character – an ageing glamourpuss, spectacular sets, stunning costumes and breathtaking choreography, CATS promises to wow.

The stage is set for the production, with scenery transported from the West End and built out into the huge surroundings of the Opera House.

Launch of Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical Cats at the Opera House, during a visit earlier this year

Winter Gardens Managing Director Michael Williams said: “It is great to see all the Cats in Blackpool ahead of next week.

“The set is looking amazing and audiences are going to be absolutely wowed when they see it. The entire staging has come to the Opera House direct from the London Palladium and I have no doubt that everyone is going to have a fantastic time when they see the show in Blackpool.”

One of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, CATS has been seen by more than 73 million people in more than 300 cities around the world.

CATS has a special place in Blackpool’s theatrical history, spending an unprecedented six-months at the Opera House in 1989, and returning in 2003 as part of a national tour.

n CATS, Opera House, Blackpool, from Thursday, July 9 to Saturday, September 5, no performances between August 4 to 9. Visit www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk to book.