Based on Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot the musical Cats has a light-hearted affect to it because it does not go beyond simple entertainment. Seeing as how Cats was based on a book written for children filled with poems about cats one would not expect much rave about such a musical. In the contrary their marketing strategy was right on cue and attracted audiences of all ages.
On May 11th 1981, The musical “Cats” by Andrew Lloyd Webber and inspired by T.S. Eliot premieres in London. Even with the complications that it had days prior to the show opening it opened up with ease. With virtually no plot the musical is simply a musical that incorporates dance, but practically no speaking.
The musical went on to play for 21 years and 8,949 performances during that time span. That was not the end for Cats as we know it because then the show came to Broadway and stayed here for 18 years. Fortunately for those of whom have never seen Cats on stage there are plans of bring it back in 2013 so be on the look out.