Whose musical is the cat? - briefly
The musical "Cats" is based on Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot. It was adapted into a stage musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, with lyrics by Trevor Nunn and Richard Stilgoe.
Whose musical is the cat? - in detail
The question "Whose musical is the cat?" is a playful way of asking who is responsible for or enjoys the cat's musical performance. In the context of popular culture, this phrase often refers to the Broadway musical "Cats," based on T.S. Eliot's Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats. The musical follows a tribe of cats called the Jellicles as they make what is known as "the Jellicle choice" and decide which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and come back to a new life.
In this context, the cat's musical performance is central to the storyline. Each cat in the tribe gets a chance to tell their story through song and dance, showcasing their unique personalities and abilities. The musical numbers are diverse, ranging from lively and upbeat to somber and introspective, reflecting the depth and complexity of each feline character.
The phrase "Whose musical is the cat?" could be interpreted in several ways within this context:
- Responsibility: It might refer to the creators or producers of the musical. Andrew Lloyd Webber composed the music, Trevor Nunn directed the original production, and Gillian Lynne choreographed it. These individuals are responsible for bringing the cats' musical performances to life.
- Audience Enjoyment: It could also pertain to the audience members who appreciate and enjoy the cat's musical numbers. Each performance is designed to engage and entertain the viewers, drawing them into the world of the Jellicles.
- Character Perspective: From a character's perspective within the musical, it might be asking which specific cat has the most compelling or memorable musical number. Characters like Grizabella (who sings "Memory") and Rum Tum Tugger have particularly notable performances.
Regardless of the interpretation, the question underscores the importance of music and performance in storytelling, particularly within the framework of "Cats." The musical numbers are not just interludes but integral parts of the narrative, revealing the cats' emotions, aspirations, and personal histories. Thus, determining whose musical is the cat is essential for understanding both the individual characters and the overall plot of the musical.