Who played in the Cats musical? - briefly
The original London production of "Cats" featured Elaine Paige as Grizabella and Brian Blessed as Old Deuteronomy.
Who played in the Cats musical? - in detail
The musical "Cats" has had numerous productions since its premiere on the West End in 1981, featuring a diverse cast of talented performers over the years. The original London production showcased an ensemble that included Elaine Paige as Grizabella, Brian Blessed as Bustopher Jones, and Susan Jane Tanner as Jemima. This production set the stage for the subsequent Broadway run, which debuted in 1982.
The original Broadway cast of "Cats" was led by Betty Buckley as Grizabella, who delivered a memorable performance of the iconic song "Memory." Other notable performers in this production included Ken Page as Old Deuteronomy, Harry Groener as Munkustrap, and Terrence Mann as Rum Tum Tugger. This cast received critical acclaim and numerous awards, including seven Tony Awards.
Throughout its long-running history, "Cats" has seen many revivals and international productions. In 2016, a new production of the musical opened on Broadway, featuring Leona Lewis as Grizabella and Jason Derulo as Rum Tum Tugger. This production was directed by Trevor Nunn, who also helmed the original London production.
In addition to these prominent performances, "Cats" has been performed by numerous companies around the world, including productions in Japan, Australia, and South Africa. Each production has brought its unique interpretation to the classic musical, showcasing the talents of a wide range of performers.
Overall, the cast of "Cats" has included some of the most accomplished actors and singers in the theater world. From the original productions to contemporary revivals, each performance has contributed to the enduring legacy of this beloved musical.