Was at the CCP last night to watch Cats the Musical. I had mix reviews from friends so that made me more interested in seeing it. Read a few reminders and tips before the show but didn’t take them seriously, especially the part that you have to know the story before going there.First up, because I knew very little about the story I got lost somewhere in the middle. I gave extra effort to understand the lyrics of the songs but the fast melody made it extra difficult. Same is also true when the cats sing in unison. If you haven't read about Cats, then I suggest you do so now. Because if you rely on the show to tell you the story, you're not gonna get it. So today, my objective is to learn more about the story.
Secondly, I love the choreography they put in the show, particularly the cat-like actions which were very fluid. You’d see them prowl, roll on their side, rest on their stomach, and hear them hissing. When they mingled with the crowd (Yes, the Cats mingle with the crown during intermission), some cats were in character, slowly blinking and moving like a real cat. They were truly entertaining.
I was not impressed by the set, though. When we saw Miss Saigon, I was amazed by how fast they changed sets. I was super impressed when they brought in a chopper in the theater. Cats only had two sets, and they made good use of their lighting effect. But even that didn’t do it for me.
Some characters are highly entertaining. My personal favorite is Rum Tum Tiger who’s the Mr. Swabe in this play. He’s a show off in a funny way. Fell asleep with Old Deuteronomy, though. He’s soft and husky voice made me sleepy. I enjoyed the part where a foreign actor sang the tagalong version of Memory. At first you would think she’s a Filipina, but towards the end of the song, you’d know. May “tuang” eh.
Lea’s performance is outstanding, as always. I asked myself last night, before the show, what makes Lea an excellent performer. (I know it’s a no-brainer but I just have to confirm it one last time.) I got my answer yesterday. Because her voice is amazing period. I compared her with other performers and while they were singing I would also hear them gasp for air. But with Lea, no such sign. And of course, who doesn’t know her unbelievable voice range? Haaayyy… after her last rendition of Memory, I fell inlove with her all over again.So there, my long review of the show. Some people didn’t like it, some said it’s awesome. We have different opinions and it all depends on what we’re looking for. As for me, I was there to be entertained. I was there to be enchanted by Lea’s voice. And I got all of that. It is not as spectacular as other Broadway shows like Miss Saigon and Les Miserables, but it’s not naman super pangit. It’s still worth watching.
ps. Pics from TicketWorld.
