Lipscomb Department of Theatre’s Cats Opens

This Friday opens the Lipscomb Department of Theatre’s production of Cats, an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical.

This show has some unique elements such as the eccentric wigs and the performers resembling cats and other animals. There is also the element that this show is sung through, meaning there is no dialogue in the entirety of the show. Almost all of the cast is on stage at all times, which is a challenge. It is also an utterly dance-heavy show.

Cats requires complete dedication to the look, and many were included in bringing this production to life.

The talented Professor June Kingsbury designed and organized the costumes. Most costumes are hand-painted bodysuits, which Cynthia Parker-Houghton spearheaded and had the assistance of theatre students.

The wigs, which ultimately contribute to every cat’s personality, were primarily the responsibility of Musical Theatre student Jonah Smith. With the assistance of Design and Productions students Emma Stanard and Lin Lescalleet, they were able to create wigs that resemble a cat’s coat. This was done through styling, painting, and a lot of skill. Each wig was specific to a costume rendering made to fit each character.

Professor June Kingsbury drew inspiration from John Napier’s makeup designs, and Musical Theatre student Connor Adair contributed some of his own designs to the looks. The getting ready process for each actor is no easy feat, with students having to begin their makeup around four and rehearsals ending at eleven at night.

Sets are essential to the story-telling done in theatre, and the sets in this production were designed by Professor and Production Manager Andy Bleiler. The Assistant Scenic Designer was Senior Design and Production student Peyton Lewis. The sets were crafted in set practicum classes led by the Technical Director and Professor Hendrick Shelton.

Most people marvel at the intense choreography that any production of Cats contains, and this show is sure to be no different. Co-director and Professor Kari Smith was also the choreographer for this show, which required a lot of balance work. The Assistant Choreographer, Olivia Eley, contributed greatly to help carry this load, and both of them have worked greatly to bring this show where it is today.

The music is also quite a feat, for there is so much music to work with, being a wholly sung-through show. Andrew Lloyd Webber is also known for composing rather tricky music. Co-director Dr. Christopher Bailey can be attributed to directing the songs performed throughout this show, with the assistance of Madelyn Jones. There is also the added element of a live orchestra performing the score.

“It has been an absolute joy to work on Cats. From a musical standpoint, the show is filled with many different styles and sounds, which each present unique challenges. The cast has worked above and beyond to give a stellar performance that does the script and score justice.” – Madelyn Jones

The Stage Manager and Assistant Stage Managers have no easy task. The SM’s job once in the theatre consists of being on a head set and calling every cue while watching the show. The ASM’s are on head sets that are listening and ensuring that everything goes according to plan both back and onstage.

“I have loved being a Stage Manager for this show. I think this is a show that’s very hard for everyone. It requires a lot from the actors, directors, musicians, and from the stage manager. Tracking formations is hard since it is all dancing and making sure 37 people are always listening is consistently a challenge. When you get to the theatre the amount of lights, sound, and spotlights that I need to call is crazy, I am basically talking the entire show. Still, calling the show is my favorite part of being a stage manager so far because the pieces are finally together and you’re making that happen as the Stage Manager. I have learned a lot throughout this process and I would definitely do it again.” – Sofia Hernandez Morales

Why Cats? Cats provides many opportunities to demonstrate a wide range of skills. Assistant Director Abi Nicholson gave her own insight. “I love that we chose to do Cats because it’s a show where we can tell a fun-loving story by showcasing a multi-talented cast of students”.

Show dates are November 1, 2, 8, and 9 at 7:30 and November 3 and 10 at 2:30 and can be purchased at this link.