Who created the musical Cats? - briefly
The musical "Cats" was created by Andrew Lloyd Webber, with lyrics based on T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats."
Who created the musical Cats? - in detail
The creation of the iconic musical "Cats" is credited to Andrew Lloyd Webber, one of the most successful composers of our time. Born in London in 1948, Lloyd Webber has made an indelible mark on the world of theatre with a string of hit musicals that include "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," "Evita," and "The Phantom of the Opera."
"Cats" was adapted from Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats, a collection of whimsical poems by T.S. Eliot. Lloyd Webber's fascination with cats led him to acquire the rights to adapt Eliot's poems into a musical. The idea for "Cats" was first conceived in 1977 when Lloyd Webber began composing music based on Eliot's poems. He worked closely with his creative team, including producer Cameron Mackintosh and director Trevor Nunn, to bring the feline-inspired narrative to life.
The musical premiered in London's West End at the New London Theatre in 1981. It quickly became a sensation, captivating audiences with its unique blend of music, dance, and storytelling. "Cats" introduced several groundbreaking elements to the world of musical theatre, including the use of a continuous score that seamlessly transitions from one song to another, and a stage design that immerses the audience in the whimsical world of cats.
The success of "Cats" was not limited to London. The musical made its way to Broadway in 1982, where it ran for an astonishing 18 years, becoming one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history. "Cats" has since been performed in numerous countries and languages, captivating audiences worldwide with its enchanting story and memorable music.
Andrew Lloyd Webber's vision and creativity are at the heart of "Cats," making him the driving force behind this enduring musical masterpiece.