Cats returns to the Artscape Opera House for a festive season spectacular
The world-renowned musical CATS opened at Artscape on 10 December and runs until 11 January 2026. One of the biggest hits in theatre history, the production brings Andrew Lloyd Webber’s famed score, including the classic “Memory” to Cape Town audiences, along with dynamic choreography, dazzling costumes, and its signature oversized junkyard set.
Image: Armand Hough / Independent Newspapers
The iconic and much-loved musical CATS, inspired by T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, has made its return to the Artscape Opera House, set to wow audiences until early next year.
Audiences can look forward to a talented South African cast, led by Cindy Ann Abrahams as Grizabella, King B as Old Deuteronomy, Dylan Janse van Rensburg as Rum Tum Tugger and Che-jean Jupp as Munkustrap.
"We are delighted to bring CATS back to South Africa. It remains one of the most exciting and emotionally rich musicals ever written — a timeless spectacle that continues to inspire audiences across generations," said theatrical producer, Pieter Toerien.
“Featuring Andrew Lloyd Webber's celebrated score, including the unforgettable ballad 'Memory', delivered by local singer-actress Cindy-Ann Abrahams, along with breathtaking choreography, dazzling costumes and an extraordinary, oversized junkyard set, CATS promises to deliver all the highlights that have captivated audiences around the world.”
The production is brought to the stage by Toerien and GWB Entertainment, in collaboration with Cape Town Opera and in association with LW Entertainment.
CATS first premiered in London's West End in 1981 and went on to play nearly 9000 performances over 21 years, breaking records and redefining musical theatre. The grand-scale show now runs at the Artscape Opera House for the festive season.
Since its debut, the show has been staged in over 54 countries, translated into 23 languages and seen by more than 77 million people around the world. Its enduring appeal lies in the magical fusion of music, poetry, dance and storytelling. At its core, CATS invites audiences into the mysterious world of the Jellicle Cats, who gather for their annual Jellicle Ball to decide which one among them will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn.
Bringing the story to life is associate director and choreographer Chrissie Cartwright and musical supervisor Peter McCarthy.
“(They) honour the creative vision of the show's original team, director Trevor Nunn, designer John Napier, and the late Gillian Lynne, whose iconic choreography continues to define its distinctive style. Their combined legacy ensures this production captures both the classic heart and visual spectacle that have made CATS a worldwide phenomenon,” organisers said.
The cast features Stephan Van Der Walt as Admetus/Macavity, Sibusiso Mxosana as Alonzo and Sipesihle Ngamlana as Bill Bailey. Tatum Coleman appears as Bombalurina, with Tshepo Ncokoane as Bustopher Jones/Gus and Michael Fullard as Carbuckety. Hannah Marshall plays Cassandra, while Darren Rockman takes on Coricopat. Brittane van Loggerenberg appears as Demeter, and Morgan Marshall as Electra. Harry Smallman is cast as George, with Noa Duckitt as Jellylorum. While Scarlett Pay performs as Jemima, and Zoe McLaughlin plays Jennyanydots. Austin Tshikosi appears as Mungojerrie, and Jordan Roelfze performs as Quaxo/Mr Mistoffelees. Tannah Levick plays Rumpleteazer, Logan Timbre appears as Skimbleshanks, Tania Mteto as Tantomile and Cassiel Eatock-Winnik as Victoria.
Performances run at the Artscape Opera House until January 11, followed by a run at The Teatro at Montecasino in Johannesburg from January 17, 2026. Tickets are available through Webtickets and the Artscape Box Office (021 421 7695).
Cape Times