‘Never felt so scared’: the Cats obsessive who’s created a feral dance version of the purr-fect musical

Choreographer and director Drew McOnie is reimagining the iconic musical 'Cats' for a new production at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. Drawing on his own history as a performer in the original show, McOnie aims to infuse the production with a more feral, contemporary energy while honoring the rigorous standards of the late Gillian Lynne.
Why it matters
The production represents a significant creative evolution for a classic piece of musical theater, highlighting how modern directors are reinterpreting 20th-century staples for contemporary audiences through updated movement and casting.
Tails at the ready … the cast rehearse for the show at Regents Park Open Air theatre. Photograph: Mark Senior Tails at the ready … the cast rehearse for the show at Regents Park Open Air theatre. Photograph: Mark Senior Stage Interview ‘Never felt so scared’: the Cats obsessive who’s created a feral dance version of the purr-fect musical Lyndsey Winship Drew McOnie skipped school to audition for the original. It launched his astonishing career. Now he’s getting his claws into a no-pussyfooting version of the classic hit
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