Cats Review at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre London

Few musicals have enjoyed the enduring success of Cats. Since its West End premiere in 1981, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s adaptation of T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats has become one of the most successful and recognisable musicals ever created. With its celebrated score, innovative choreography and unmistakable visual identity, Cats has left an undeniable mark on musical theatre. In the same year that The Jellicle Ball is voguing its way across Broadway in a ballroom-inspired reimagining of Cats, the show returns to London in a brand-new production. Directed by Drew McOnie, this latest revival offers another interpretation of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s beloved musical performed in the idyllic setting of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. 

The Regent’s Open Air Theatre cast includes Fin Adams as Alonzo, Carla Bertran as Electra, Elliot Broadfoot as Bustopher Jones, Matthew Caputo as Skimbleshanks, Josie Chambers-Sims as Syllabub (Jemima), Briana Craig as Rumpleteazer, Katie Dunsden as Bombalurina, Joshua-Samuel Freeman as Tumblebrutus (Bill Bailey), Regan Garcia as Pouncival (Carbuckety), Hannah Joseph as Victoria, Taela-Yeomans Brown as Tantomile, Melanie La Barrie as Old Deuteronomy, Diante Lodge as Macavity/Admetus, Owen McHugh as George, Danny Nattrass as Mungojerrie, Millie O’Connell as Demeter, Andrew Parfitt as Coricopat, Charlotte Riby as Jennyanydots (Gumbie Cat), Lucie-Mae Sumner as Jellylorum (Griddlebone), Jaydon Vijn as Rum Tum Tugger, Jack Wilcox as Munkustrap, Gary Wilmot as Gus, Taziva-Faye Katsande as Grizabella, Jet Yau as Mr. Mistoffelees/Quaxo and Patricia Zhou as Cassandra. 

As the leader Munkustrap, Jack Wilcox gave a strong performance. Bringing a more playful energy to the role than previous Munkustraps, Wilcox engaged confidently with the Jellicle Tribe throughout, establishing himself as a strong leading presence within the company. Charlotte Riby was a lovely, maternal Jennyanydots whose infectious energy brought warmth and humour to the role. She embraced the character’s playful nature and the dance break with the mice, cockroaches and beetles tattoo has never been so joyous. Jaydon Vijn was instantly recognisable as Rum Tum Tugger, bringing a suave confidence and almost Bowie-esque presence to the role. His insatiable charisma was infectious, while his storytelling throughout his number was particularly engaging, capturing Tugger’s cheeky, self-assured nature and giving the performance plenty of personality. Elliot Broadfoot was a delightfully playful Bustopher Jones. His performance felt like an inside joke shared with the audience, and his comic timing and mischievous energy made Bustopher’s number a joy.  

As partners in crime, Danny Nattrass and Briana Craig as Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer gave a wonderful performance of their iconic number. Their chemistry and playful energy made them a joy to watch, perfectly capturing the mischievous spirit of these two lovable rogues. Melanie La Barrie gave a lovely performance as Old Deuteronomy. Her grounded and affectionate portrayal brought a real warmth to the character, while her commanding presence gave the Jellicle goddess the sense of wisdom and authority the role demands. Gary Wilmot gave a stonking performance as Gus, receiving a mid-song applause from the audience. More spry and energetic than previous portrayals, his performance brought a wonderful vitality to Growltiger’s Last Stand before he returned to remind us that “these modern productions are all very well…” in a beautifully reverent moment that brought a tear to the audience’s eye. 

Matthew Caputo gave an incredibly joyous performance as Skimbleshanks. On-stage train and all, he threw himself into the role with infectious energy, bringing plenty of charm and character to one of the production’s most playful numbers. As Demeter and Bombalurina, Millie O’Connell and Katie Dunsden delivered strong vocals throughout, with their performance of Macavity: The Mystery Cat both sounding and looking gorgeous. Jet Yau’s Mr Mistoffelees was reimagined as a breakdancing cat, and his performance featured some of the most controlled and impressive movement I’ve seen. His precision and skill were remarkable, bringing an exciting new dimension to the character. Taziva-Faye Katsande was absolutely stunning as Grizabella. Her vocal power and control captivated the audience, with her performance of “Memory” holding the auditorium completely spellbound. She brought both vulnerability and strength to the role, making Grizabella’s journey genuinely affecting. A hugely promising young talent, Katsande is certainly one to watch, and I’m sure she has a long and successful stage career ahead of her. 

More than forty years after its original West End premiere, Cats continues to inspire directors and designers to rediscover and reinvent one of musical theatre’s most iconic and enduring works. As Director and Choreographer, Drew McOnie has created a production that feels both respectful of its origins and confidently its own. His energetic and inventive choreography brings the storytelling to life, while retaining the familiar magic and theatricality that have made Cats such an enduring success. The original concept has been thoughtfully reimagined, giving the production a fresh identity without losing the essence of what makes it so special. Similarly, Set, Costume and Wigs Designer Sami Fendall has created a fluid, conceptual and beautifully cohesive visual world. The set and costumes complement one another seamlessly, creating an environment that feels recognisably Cats while offering something fresh and contemporary. 

It was really special to see this new production of Cats and to experience a show that has meant so much to so many people. What made the evening particularly lovely was seeing such a mix of generations in the audience. Some had seen the original production back in the 80s, others had grown up watching it on video, while for some younger audience members, this was their very first experience of Cats. Seeing all of these people brought together by the same show was a lovely reminder of its enduring appeal, and this new production feels perfectly placed to introduce the Jellicle Tribe to a whole new generation. Now and Forever indeed. 

Cats plays at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre until 19 September 2026.

Where I Sat

For Cats, I sat in Row D, Seat 17 which was right smack in the centre. I had the perfect seat for this show, with ample legroom and an incredible view. I absolutely love the Regents Park Open Air Theatre. There’s nothing quite like seeing a musical while surrounded by nature as the sun sets and the lights come up. Absolutely magical. 

Have You Seen Cats?

Will you be making a trip to see this brand-new production of a beloved classic in the beautiful surroundings of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre? Add your review to SeatPlan and let everyone know what you thought. You’ll even earn points towards theatre vouchers if you add a seat photo!

Reviewed by Stuart James for SeatPlan, August 2026