Cats is a book musical. It is a unique and innovative production that combines elements of both a traditional musical and a dance performance. The storyline of Cats is derived from T.S. Eliot’s poetry collection, Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, which serves as the “book” or script for the musical.
The show features a series of individual cat characters, each with their own distinct personality and story. These characters are brought to life through song and dance, with minimal spoken dialogue. The music, composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is an integral part of the storytelling and helps to convey the emotions and experiences of the feline characters.
The lack of a traditional spoken script sets Cats apart from traditional book musicals, where dialogue is typically used to advance the plot and develop the characters. Instead, the poetry of T.S. Eliot serves as the foundation for the narrative, with each song and dance number contributing to the overall story arc.
The songs in Cats are sung-through, meaning that there are no breaks in the music for spoken dialogue. This further emphasizes the importance of the music and choreography in telling the story. The lyrics of the songs often reflect the thoughts and feelings of the characters, providing insight into their motivations and struggles.
In terms of structure, Cats is divided into individual musical numbers that showcase each cat’s unique personality and story. These numbers are connected by a loose narrative thread, as the cats gather for the “Jellicle Ball” where one cat will be chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn.
The choreography in Cats is a key component of the storytelling, as it helps to define each character and their movements. Each cat has their own signature dance style, reflecting their individuality and adding depth to their portrayal.
While Cats may not fit the traditional mold of a book musical with its sung-through format and minimal spoken dialogue, it is undeniably a theatrical production with a cohesive narrative and well-defined characters. The integration of poetry, music, and dance creates a unique and immersive experience for the audience, making it a distinct and memorable contribution to the world of musical theater.