Buckle up, theater lovers—because a feline frenzy is about to claw its way onto Broadway in a way that's equal parts nostalgic and groundbreaking! Imagine the iconic Cats musical, but reimagined as a dazzling drag ballroom competition. That's the electrifying premise of 'Cats: The Jellicle Ball,' and it's poised to captivate audiences like never before. But here's where it gets controversial: Will this bold twist on Andrew Lloyd Webber's beloved show divide fans, or unite them in a celebration of diversity and reinvention?
This innovative production is set to grace the stage at Broadway's Broadhurst Theatre, with previews kicking off on March 18, 2026, and a grand opening night slated for April 7. It's making the leap from an acclaimed Off-Broadway run at New York’s Perelman Performing Arts Center last season, where it clearly wowed critics and crowds alike. For those new to the concept, a drag ballroom competition draws inspiration from vibrant subcultures like ballroom culture, where performers showcase elaborate costumes, dance, and charisma in competitive events—think high-energy performances that blend storytelling with fierce, fabulous flair.
At the helm are directors Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch, with choreography brought to life by Omari Wiles and Arturo Lyons. This marks yet another fresh take on Webber's oeuvre, joining the ranks of recent revivals like the immersive Phantom of the Opera in New York City, Jamie Lloyd’s minimalist revival of Sunset Boulevard featuring Nicole Scherzinger, and Lloyd’s concert-style Evita on the West End with Rachel Zegler. These updates often breathe new life into classics, appealing to modern audiences by stripping away the old and adding contemporary twists—much like how a beloved song gets remixed for today's playlists.
And this is the part most people miss: The original Cats dazzled Broadway from 1982 to 2000, then enjoyed a revival in 2016. But not all adaptations have been purr-fect; the 2019 film version faced widespread criticism for its visuals and storytelling, sparking debates about whether such reimaginings honor the source material or stray too far. Could this drag-infused iteration redeem Webber's work in the eyes of skeptics?
The talented ensemble includes Tony Award winner André De Shields reprising his role as the wise Old Deuteronomy, Sydney James Harcourt as the charismatic Rum Tum Tugger, 'Tempress' Chasity Moore embodying the poignant Grizabella, and Junior LaBeija as the endearing Gus. Other standout performers are Jonathan Burke as Mungojerrie, Baby Byrne as Victoria, Tara Lashan Clinkscales as another take on Rum Tum Tugger, Dava Huesca as Rumpleteazer, Dudney Joseph Jr. as Munkustrap, Robert 'Silk' Mason as the magical Mister Mistoffelees, Primo Thee Ballerino as Tumblebrutus, Xavier Reyes as Jennyanydots, Nora Schell as Bustopher Jones, Bebe Nicole Simpson as Demeter, Emma Sofia handling both Cassandra and Skimbleshanks, Garnet Williams as Bombalurina, and Teddy Wilson Jr. as Sillabub. Expect more names to join this stellar lineup soon, as additional casting announcements are on the horizon.
Producing this feline extravaganza are Michael Harrison and Mike Bosner, ensuring the show delivers on its promise of spectacle and heart. As Broadway gears up for this unique blend of Webber's tunes and drag culture, it's hard not to wonder: Will 'Cats: The Jellicle Ball' become a trailblazer for inclusive theater, or will purists argue it's too much of a departure from the classic? Do you think this reimagining could outshine the maligned 2019 film, or is it just another risky gamble? Share your opinions in the comments—let's discuss whether this is the cat's meow or a controversial cat-astrophe!
