Kelrik Productions Stages CATS, Now thru 2/3

Kelrik Productions has announced its upcoming production of Andrew Lloyd Webber's CATS . The show that revolutionized musical theatre is coming to the Kelrik Productions for three weekends only, tonight, January 18 through February 3.

Based on T.S. Eliot's "Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats," CATS is set at the annual reunion of the Jellicle cats, the Jellicle Ball. The eldest of this special breed, Old Deuteronomy, will select which of the many cats in the neighborhood will be reborn to begin another life. Potential candidates Jennyanydots, Rum Tum Tugger and Bustopher Jones plead their cases. Ultimately, it is Grizabella's plea for a new life that wins the old cat over. Winner of seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, CATS features 20 of Andrew Lloyd Webber's timeless melodies, among them the hit song "Memory."

The original production opened at the New London Theatre in the West End on May 11, 1981. CATS opened on Broadway at the Winter Garden Theatre on October 7, 1982 and lived up to its motto "Now and Forever," with an eight-year run that extended until September, 2000. On June 19, 1997, the show became the longest-running musical on Broadway.

Zach Johnson returns to San Luis Obispo to guest direct and choreograph CATS. Musical direction is by Lacey McNamara. The cast includes George Gorrindo as Old Deuteronomy, Jeff Larsen as Mr. Mistoffolees, Travis Nefores as Rum Tum Tugger, Larry Kaml as Gus, Hollie Clark as Bombularina, Lizz Premer as Munkustrap, and Makenzie Hunt as Grizabella. Other members of the creative team include Shelby Trett (Stage Manager), Erik Austin (Set and Costume Design), and Ryan Manus (Lighting Design).

Kelrik's CATS performances are Fridays and Saturdays at 7 PM with Sunday Matinees at 2 PM. Ticket prices are $20 for adults and $14 for children. Discounts are available for full-time students, seniors, and groups of 15 or more.

Tickets for CATS are on sale now and may be purchased online at kelrikproductions.org or in person at Cheap Thrills, 563 Higuera Street in downtown San Luis Obispo.

Kelrik's mission is to provide the highest quality, innovative, participatory theatre, featuring local talent and first-rate production values. As a company, Kelrik is dedicated to the growth of our actors, theater-goers, and the artistic medium in which they all connect.

Pictured: Makenzie Hunt stars as Grizabella. Photo by Danielle Dutro Photography.