It's not easy to mount a stellar production of "Cats."
Theater companies need performers who are triple threats - versed in acting, singing and dancing- to pull it off successfully.
Music Theater Works is currently presenting "Cats" as the opening of its 2026 season at The North Shore Center for The Performing Arts and is striking a big hit with this show. From the cast's powerful vocals and acting abilities to the clever choreography, colorful costumes and dramatic makeup, this production stands out on many levels.
Music Theater Works presents "Cats" through March 29 at The North Shore Center for The Performing Arts in Skokie. Photo by Brett Beiner.
"Cats," featuring music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, is based on Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats" by T.S. Eliot.it's a tale revolving around the Jellicle Cats who are preparing for The Jellicle Ball where one lucky cat will be picked to enjoy a new life. Throughout the show, the audience meets various cats and learns about their life stories. It's a charming tale with many heartwarming, sometimes funny and sometimes sad moments. And many musical numbers throughout are catchy.
Among actors bringing the felines to life are Ava Lane Stovall as Grizabella; Sam Nachison as Old Deuteronomy; Nick Johnson as Mr. Mistoffelees; Ethan Lupp as Rum Tum Tugger; Sterling Ford as Macavity; and others.
Ava Lane Stovall stars as Grizabella in "Cats" at The North Shore Center for The Performing Arts in Skokie. Photo by Brett Beiner.
Song highlights in the show include "Memory," performed excellently by singer Ava Lane Stovall; "Song of The Jellicles and The Jellicle Ball," "The Rum Tug Tugger," "Macavity:The Mystery Cat" and "Magical Mr. Mistoffelees."
Fans of musicals shouldn't miss this latest gem by Music Theater Works.
FYI: Music Theater Works production of "Cats" continues through March 29 at The North Shore Center for The Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. Tickets are $19.50 to $106. Visit MusicTheaterWorks.com