Standing ovation for Cats in Dubai

WHEN AN AUDIENCE shows their appreciation by jumping to their feet and clapping along to the final number, you don't have to be Sherlock to realise the performance has been well-received. This is precisely what occurred on the second night of the hit musical Cats, currently enjoying a 12-day run at Dubai Opera.
The classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical has been welcomed with open arms with local audiences packing out the 1900 seat venue to such an extent that new dates were added a few weeks ago to cope with demand.  
For those unaware of what the show entails, Cats is a story about...well...cats. However, these feisty felines aren't your regular house-trained kitties. They are street fighting, high-kicking, high-note reaching Jellicle cats and you're invited to the one night of the year where they all get together - the Jellicle Ball. Meet varied characters including Deuteronomy, Rum Tum Tugger and Grizabella, not to mention the magical Mr. Mistoffelees, the rogue Macavity and the sassy Bombalurina. Each present themselves with a song and precision dance number on a set resembling a south London junk yard. Chuckle along with "cat burglers" Mungojerrie and Rumpleteazer as they describe their mischievous exploits, marvel at Mr Mistoffelees' live magic tricks and shed a tear with Grizabella, played in Dubai by Joanna Ampil, as she belts out the world-renowned tune Memory to perfection.   
While the idea of an evening of feline choreography may not appeal to everyone, it is impossible not to get onboard this show. The cast's enthusiasm is infectious, the numbers have made it one of the world's longest running plays and the professionalism displayed in the constant dancing is wholly impressive. Look out for Bombalurina, Gus the Theatrical Cat and Demeter who we felt deserved special mention, though each performer is spot on and we're sure you'll be joining in that ovation on your night too.    
david@khaleejtimes.com