Review: CATS THE MUSICAL at the Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre
The production runs from August 6th through September 13th
The Jellicle Cats have officially arrived in Hong Kong, with Cats the Musical opening at the Grand Theatre of the Xiqu Centre, West Kowloon, on 6 August 2026.
Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, the musical features music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, original direction by Trevor Nunn, and the unmistakable original choreography by Gillian Lynne. This is the original production, and its return is a welcome reminder of why Cats remains one of musical theatre’s most distinctive and enduring spectacles.
For those unfamiliar with the show, Cats takes place over one magical night at the Jellicle Ball, where a tribe of cats gathers to celebrate, introduce themselves, and await the decision of their wise leader, Old Deuteronomy. One cat will be chosen to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a new Jellicle life. Rather than following a conventional plot, the musical unfolds as a series of character portraits, each cat stepping forward through song and dance to reveal their quirks, histories, and place within the tribe.
Admittedly, the concept of a musical entirely about cats may sound unusual to first-time theatregoers. But once the lights come up, Cats quickly wins you over with its atmosphere, physicality, and sheer theatrical imagination. The oversized junkyard set, playful costumes, and feline movement vocabulary create a world that feels both strange and irresistible. Audiences can expect an evening filled with ballet, tap, ensemble dance, memorable songs, and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sweeping, instantly recognisable score — including "Prologue: Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats", "Macavity: The Mystery Cat", "Mr. Mistoffelees", and of course, the iconic “Memory".
One of the production’s greatest strengths is its cast. The ensemble performs with remarkable energy and control, combining singing and dancing so effortlessly that it is easy to forget just how physically demanding the show is. Their athleticism is impressive, but so is the grace they carry throughout the performance. Every stretch, leap, crouch, and flick of the hand feels considered, feline, and fully in character. Gillian Lynne’s choreography is executed with precision and personality, and the company brings the Jellicle tribe to life as a living, breathing community.
Among the standout performances, Dylan Janse Van Rensburg who plays Rum Tum Tugger is a clear audience favourite, capturing the character’s rock-star swagger, mischief, and irresistible vanity with great comic timing.
Cindy-Ann Abrahams plays the old glamour cat, Grizabella, and brings emotional weight to the evening, standing apart from the tribe with a quiet sadness that makes her eventual rendition of “Memory” especially powerful. Her vocals are strong and moving, giving the song the sense of longing and release it needs — a performance that will sit with audiences long after the performance has ended. 
In addition, special mention also goes to King B for his role as Old Deuteronomy, who radiates warmth and authority, grounding the production with a gentle, dignified presence, while Mukeni Nel, who plays Quaxo & Mister Mistoffelees, dazzles with charm, agility, and showmanship, embodying the magical spark of the Mister Mistoffelees.
A thoughtful local touch also comes when Jemima, portrayed by Scarlett Pay, sings “The Moments of Happiness” with Cantonese lyrics. It is a small but meaningful choice, and one that Hong Kong audiences will surely appreciate. Rather than feeling forced, the moment helps the production connect more directly with its local audience while preserving the emotional heart of the song.
Overall, this production of Cats the Musical is an enjoyable and visually captivating night at the theatre. It may not be a traditional book musical, but that is also part of its charm. It invites audiences to surrender to rhythm, movement, music, and mood — and when performed with this much commitment, the result is genuinely engaging.
Cats is now playing at the Grand Theatre, Xiqu Centre, West Kowloon, with performances running Tuesday to Sunday.
Book your tickets now and experience the Jellicle Ball for yourself: https://cultural.cityline.com/en/2026/musicalcats.html
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