Stuttgart CATS, June 2002 (by Triskell)

June 20, 2002

June 21st, 2002

June 22nd, 2002

June 23rd, 2002


go to Cast Lists June 2002


June 20, 2002 (evening, 8 pm)

DRESS CIRCLE I


Since I was a bit tired, this is more a general discussion of my opinion on various performers than anything else. Few titbits or stories here ;D.

But, to start off - I had a “Macavity Tomato Soup” at the Backstage Café in the SI-Centrum today - very nice place, full of stage mementos. Sachmet and I sat directly beside a wall full of framed CATS photographs. Very pleasant meal - I just knew Maccy was tasty *winks*

On to the show then…


“Aspects of Lighting” (yes, it is a pun!)

Let me just say this - the lighting in Stuttgart is phenomenal. I’m not usually one to notice this, but I was mesmerized. I’ll have that in my mind forever now ;D.

The ring of lights that rises from the stage during the overture sports not only white but also blue lights - makes for a beautiful effect. For ‘Macavity’ and the ‘catfight’ there was a deep red wash which was complimented by red (for the song) and red/orangey-white (for the fight) light-bulb chains. It complimented the atmosphere marvellously.

There are blinking cats’ eyes on the car boot as well as others, strategically placed all around the auditorium - a shock was the lighting for the ‘Misto number’ though. Very nice star-shaped overlaid with round gobos (1) - in a piggy pinkish wash. I can take a lot, but pink? Not really. ;D

Since we were sitting upstairs I was also very pleasantly surprised about the sound quality. It was excellent, if a bit loud at times during the overture. What I loved was that, during the ‘Ball’, some parts were ‘wandering’ from loudspeaker to loudspeaker behind us, drawing the audience into the show. Brilliant.

“Naming”

Saw Silla on the left and Pounci on the right hand side of the Dress Circle - heard bits of both their renditions - very well done, nice emphasis.

“Gumbie Cat”

I just adore seeing Pounci as a mouse, sewing happily. Looks so cute - and he does very well with all the threads too ;D. Jerrie was the lead roach by the way, opening the oven for his fellows. Jenny (Kristi Mancini) was amazing throughout the show - she’s so slight and small but she just lives the role. Wonderful. Great voice too and sweet during ‘Bustopher’.

The tap dance sequence was marvellous, Misto was making adorable faces and it looked like Sillabub was the one trying to stab Jenny with her fork. Misto also trampled (aka knocked) on the car boot with his feet before the Gumbie Cat came out. Nice back view *winks*.

“Mungojerrie & Rumpelteazer”

Angus (MacMillan) & Angela (Gee) were fabulous, but the music was too fast at times. On each new “MJ & RT” you would notice how it sped up and they were hard pressed to get out their lines, stumbling over the words breathlessly as they danced. They did an admirable job of it though. Rumple’s giggle was cool - like a little kid caught doing something naughty.

Before ‘Pekes’, the two of them were sitting huddled together, hugging. And during their song, Mungo kept clapping Teazer’s behind - she retaliated by bumping him out of her spotlight none too gently with her bum for her last “and RT”. Jerrie also kicked his partner’s backside hard as they came out for their song - not exactly a gentleman ;D.

“Jellicle Ball”

The bum-rubbing partner dance sequence saw Misto with Silla, Pounce with Tumble (*argh* I was done for ;D), Tanto with Cori and Mungo with Rumple. After the ‘mating dance’ my eyes were wandering from Tumble to Misto whenever those two were on stage - I also watched Tugger though.

“Growltiger’s Last Stand”

Misto was violently (and noisily) sick as he hung over the railing, Munk gave a high-pitched squeal (cute ;D) when the Siamese compelled him to jump overboard. Poor Growl met his fate like Caesar again (…even at the base of Pompey’s statue, … great Caesar fell - I love Shakespeare, sue me ;D)

One of the Siamese then rubbed his swords against both sides of Growl’s belly (looked like he was being sliced up) and stabbed him right into his stomach. Ouch. Being the born actor, Growl still stoutly refused to die *grins*.

“Kittens”

Tumble (Andrew Millar) and Vicky (Souzan Alavi) are teens in love imo. And cute ones at that ;D. Vic always tried to get him to come and sit with her during ‘Memory II’, but he never dared, preferring to sit on the right hand side of the stage on the ramp.

After Griz had been accepted by Jenny, Skimble encouraged Tumble to touch her and he crawled forward, rubbing his head hesitantly against her thigh. He then wrapped his arms around her leg and beamed up at her when she patted his head.

A very inquisitive fellow, he put his head right under the tire when it rose - for some obscure reason he went missing during ‘Bustopher’ (leaving Pounci to be a rascal on his own), but he re-appeared at the end of ‘MJ & RT’. He was a joy to watch during the ‘Ball’ as well.

Vicky is kittenish grace personified, very playful and sweet. During ‘Gus’ she sat at the foot of the tire, raised her leg up horizontally in front of Old D’s nose and wouldn’t take it down until he had tickled her sole.

“Cassandra”

Christine Haaga is so cool - perfect poise - the poor thing was stunned by Misto during his number as he swept past, losing her footing and tumbling off the pipe she’d been standing on. She was barely done nursing her hurt pride (and grooming her wig) when she ‘volunteered’ to go under the red blanket.

Pounci was happily pointing her out as she sat on the tire and she happened to have her arm raised to put her ears into order… Not that she didn’t swipe and hiss at Tugger when he blocked her path; perfect Lady of course, she began straightening her wig just before she was submerged under the blanket - wouldn’t do if she looked scruffy after all ;D.

Misto and Cass seemed to get on very well with each other - they were companionably sharing the car boot during ‘RTT’, flirting, while Misto fanned himself with his tail, refusing to look at Tugger.

“Bustopher/Gus”

Jason Ward Kennedy is a new addition to the cast - I noticed again that Gus is the lead pollicle (“there are dogs out of every nation…”) - he’s so cute with those boxes on ;D. I liked Jason’s Bustopher, his Gus was sweet, but he lacked the emphasis needed to bring the words to life imo.

His Growltiger, however, was stunning. Wow. I loved his evil laugh! And of course, he and Griddle had their ‘spotlight issues’ which was brilliant. Wonderful aria, best I’ve heard yet - rich, full voice - swoon worthy!

“Jellylorum/Griddlebone”

Maryanne Kelly - definitely one of my fave Griddles now. She has a pleasant voice, but since I usually don’t pay too much attention to Jelly I can’t say much about her interpretation. She seemed to be fairly quiet to me.

As Griddle, she was coy shyness with a touch of the kitten, with a mean glint in her eyes, enjoying the fact that Growl screeched as she scratched him and polishing her nails with a sweet, mischievous smile.

“Bombalurina”

I didn’t like Tanja-Maria Meier too much as Sillabub - but as the red cat she excelled. Sexy and sassy, fluid in her motions, a superb dancer. Her voice was warm and low, matching perfectly with Demi’s.

She stumbled over a few lines of her text, had a laugh out of it, along with the rest of the girls during ‘Macavity’ - she’s also very flirty, marvellous interpretation. She owns the stage (and the heart of just about every tom ;D) and she is quite a tease.

During ‘RTT’ Skimble caught Cassie as she, reluctantly, fainted - induced by a hip swing of Tug’s that was directed at her thighs - she is taller than him ;D. As soon as he had let go of her, Bomb sidled up to him from behind and he got a full body rub, including a languid scratching from his shoulders to his thighs. Skimble was, of course, reduced to jelly in an instant, his knees almost giving out. *grins* He looked so adorably shocked - whether at Bom or his own reaction I can only guess ;D

. “Grizabella”

Nadja Solovieva is a wonderful actress, I loved her gestures and movements. However, like most other Grizas, she fell into the ‘bellow trap’ for her “touch me”. I know it’s supposed to be emphasized, I know the music crescendos and she wants to be heard. I still don’t like it. Also, on begUN, the high note sounded strained.

Sillabub (Cara Hamilton) was adorable and very playful, with a sweet voice. I must admit I didn’t look at her that much - I was very busy with the rest of the cast - they were all excellent and I didn’t wannt to miss any of them ;D.

I love how Silla motions for Vic to join her and they edge towards Griz hand in hand before they’re pushed away. It’s nice to see a connection made between those two since they are the ones to welcome back the Glamour Cat later on.

“Munkustrap”

Alexander Wengel is a fun Munkus, less calm and quiet than Kenny Linden and not at all a ‘tabby knight’ imo. He’s forward, jovial and likeable though. I still find his voice a bit too high at times, but I do like him, especially his wonderful ‘Invitation’ - how could I not when he knows how to recite poetry ;D.

“Old Deuteronomy”

Jonathan Agar was replaced by Brian Bowley during intermission (so they announced). Brian is a loving grandpa, very pleasant voice, enjoyed both ‘MOH’ and ‘Addressing’. I find those bluish-grey, slightly pointed shoes he wears quite interesting ;D.

“Mistoffelees”

Cary Chennell has a grand interpretation, I love his voice and the open smile always apparent on his face, especially when he dances. I believe he wasn’t in top shape and a little off in his dancing from time to time, not as fluid as I remember, some of the landings a bit sloppy.

He wore glasses during ‘Growltiger’ I think (we were so high up it’s hard to say for sure) and for his number there was silverish-blue tinsel on the ears of his wig. He has drastically improved in his ‘Misto solo’ since I last saw him, the pirouettes were much nicer as well.

“Rum Tum Tugger”

Andreas Wolfram, new addition as well. His interpretation seemed a little forward at times - I have nothing against a bold Tugger (hey, I adore John Partridge ;D) - but Andreas was not always in the lines of being tuggerish, sometimes he was embarrassingly beside his role.

He is a very good dancer as I observed during the ‘Ball’, has nice and fluid movements and he enjoyed himself, which is always great to see. He also has a particularly fine voice, fairly deep which I liked, even though he didn’t always *use* it to best effect.

He was kinda cute playing the macho cat (and did a grand job of it ;D) - called Silla to him during ‘RTT’ with something along the lines of “Here/Hey Baby!”

During this number (since I couldn’t see the auditorium) I concentrated on the group dance sequence. It’s just plain cool - so fast paced and energetic. Wow. One of my fave bits of choreography ;D.

(1) gobo (pl. gobos)
2 Theatre a partial screen used in front of a spotlight to project a shape.
- ORIGIN 1930s: of unknown origin, perh. ffrom “go between”
Concise Oxford Dictionary (10th edition)


June 21st, 2002 (evening)

DRESS CIRLCE I

I’ve just thrown everything together here - my thoughts were a bit topsy-turvy still and it was pretty hard to put them into some semblance of order…

I would only like to state (since I won’t be talking about it otherwise) that I still don’t like the German lyrics too much - I haven’t been converted yet ;D. It’s true the translation has been radically improved since Hamburg and I have to admit that the lyrics nicely invaded my brain so that I could easily sing along… if I could sing that is ;D

What I’ve observed is that (since there’s no talking between numbers) the cast relies heavily on acting, gestures and mimics. It works wonderfully, almost better than any lines, fits in more easily with the atmosphere in most places. The only thing I really miss is the London Maccys’ ominous “I’ll be back for you!” ;D.

Silla’s ‘Naming’ was wonderful, she enunciated the words with feeling and very good emphasis.

During ‘Gumbie’, before he trampled on the car boot, Cary (Misto) fanned himself with his tail, then provided the audience with a lovely view of his backside as he wriggled into a comfortable position. He usually prefers decorative sprawling though ;D.

‘RTT’ - Misto’s back can be seen for most of the number, since he tends to ignore Tugger after he’s said his line together with Munkus. It seems this statement is all he has to spare for the “curious cat”. He also waved air to Cassie with his tail, then used it to dry her face and pat her wig as they lay together cosily on the car boot.

Tugger wrapped his tail around Bomb’s waist and rubbed it up and down after she’d sung her line - he does something different each day, I like that immensely. She had held out her hand for a kiss (I think it was Roimata playing Bom who actually got it ;D). I also like that Tugger bends the lady over as far as he can, almost laying her on the ground before ‘dropping’ her - very considerate and not to mention cute *winks*.

Once again I watched the group dance while RTT was off the stage - the guys are sizzling. Wow. Not that the ladies aren’t great too ;D.

Pounci tried to get to Griz and touch her repeatedly, even after Silla and Vic had been pulled back (during ‘Glamour Cat’), but Jelly held him back, sitting down with him.

When ‘Bustopher’ came out, Misto was merrily twirling his tail (imitating Skimble anyone? ;D) While ‘the cat about town’ was happily talking, he straightened his wig (like just about every other Misto I’ve seen - is it me or do they have a strange love for a perfect hairdo? ;D).

Then he looked at Skimble and the two of them patted their ears into shape to make sure they were presentable. *cuteness* Plato ended up on the top hat for the tom line-up and was excessively pleased to have his hands tapped with the “hallowed cutlery” *grins*

In retaliation for having had her bum kicked as she and Jerrie came out for their song, Teaze rubbed up against him from behind on “..and RT” - he looked decidedly uncomfortable *grins* The two are fun to watch - hugging, poking each other or just fooling around - still very much like kittens. In this interpretation they appear to be more siblings than mates.

Angus (Mungo) has a beautiful, warm voice, clear and yet soft. I love hearing him and he’s such a huggable Ghenghis too. One thing I like especially is the beautiful blue glow of the eyes on his costume as he bows to Gus once more in the darkness before leaving the stage.

To calm the others down before Rumpus appeared in ‘Pekes’, Alexander (Munk) said ‘ssccchhht’ - more of a slight hiss actually - and since not all fell silent he growled at them. Gosh, that was one *sexy* growl. ;D Rumpus was a bit off on timing at times, but really cute, just the kind of superhero goofball you wanna wrap up and take home…

Tumble (Andrew John Gardner) managed to lose a shoe box as he marched along in the poll line, the guy behind him kicked it along the way, so that it was ready to be put on again as soon as the round was done.

Since Andrew Millar was on as Alonzo I paid special attention to him. He had the poses down perfectly, youthful and sexy charm, cool hip swings ;D. He didn’t fare too well in his pirouette jumps during the ‘Ball’ (just before the queens’ dance) - each one was lop-sided and he stumbled on his landings. It seemed he had trouble fixing on a point.

What I observed this time round was the budding relationship between Demi and Al. That’s romance novel stuff, guys! ;D

Al was obviously interested in Dem, looking at her shyly - Bom encouraged him each time Demi drew back and shied away from his touch. She didn’t flirt as heavily with him as with the rest of the guys btw. Those sideward glances, looking away time and again - wonderful ;D. I also noticed how sisterly Al is shared between Bom and Dem during the ‘mating dance’…

After the ‘Mac fight’, Dem actually goes to Al for the first time in the spotlight for a little cuddle and when Griz comes on for her last ‘Memory’ she runs to him and he puts his arms round her. From then on they’re practically inseparable, touching gently or standing close. *sighs*

I watched Vic again during ‘Gus’, she was perfectly adorable, the epitome of a cute kitten. I love her sweet grins, winks and laughs. She seems less thoughtful than most Vickys I’ve seen, more carefree, playful and innocent.

During the ‘Ball’, Jelly and Gus can be seen dancing on the car boot for the last minutes, Jenny is standing on the pipe - wow, they do really well, each and every move, amazing!

In the bum-rubbing partner dance at the ‘Ball’ I tried to spy a few other pairings - Vicky and Skimble as well as Plato and Alonzo (I couldn’t tear my eyes away ;D) were the ones I caught. The light-bulb strings are so cool in this number, they glow in a myriad of colours (red, green, blue, white, orange) - truly magical.

I paid particular attention (thanks to Sachmet ;D) to Misto during the fast dancing just after the ‘Mating’ - I still think that one or two beats more as they lie down would be nicer. The moment they are still, the music sets in again - that’s too fast for my taste, a rip in the atmosphere.

Back to Misto now ;D. Instead of running his hands up his body slowly (before shaking his head, which looks just adorable btw) he abruptly draws them up, in a movement that makes me think of pulling one’s trousers up very fast. Not elegant, but funny *grins*

Brian (Bowley) is a grand Gus - a fab actor, each word has depth and meaning, wonderful mimics and gestures too. He’s a very good Growl as well, though I must say I like Jason (Kennedy) better. Gotta insert here that Jelly, on her “no longer a terror to mice and to rats” (approximately translated as: no mice have run away from him for a long time) does a little jump, reminiscent of a frightened critter.

Griddle looked as if she were waiting for “reinforcements” to arrive before the pirate captain bored her to death with his attempts at seduction - very interesting ;D. And she still beckons Growl into her arms as she lies outstretched and invitingly on her back - with a ‘come-on’ motion of her fingers.

Misto was noisily sick on the ship once again, Tugger was hitting him on the back with his tail - I suppose it was in an effort to help out. Al actually jumped off board with a squeak when Growl descended upon him. And Griddle obviously thinks all the pirates are adorable - except for the captain.

She smiles at them all, even pinching Misto’s cheek (he grins totally love-struck then) and faints dead away at the sight of her soon-to-be-lover. Having been revived, she runs towards him, Tugger trying to hold onto her tail and showing it to Al - when it has slipped from his grasp he turns around, lips pursed, knocking into Growl in his search of a kiss from the Lady. He’s then chased away under deck.

The curtain for ‘GLS’ is let down at the end of the number and, as it falls down, is pulled away by one of the Siamese, leaving Ghenghis to circle Gus. The boat set has to be moved into place (and away again) in record time - there can’t be more than 30 seconds to do it. That is what I call precise timing ;D.

‘Skimble’ was such a treat - Marc (Leslie) is so funny. Before ‘MOH’ Tanto and Silla took the tambour frame with the torn cloth from the set at the front of the stage and played with it, sending it skidding into Skimble’s direction. He actually started playing with it! So adorable!

He is an awesome dancer as well, beautiful execution of his movements in his song too, perfect emphasis. His gestures are uncommonly good - he’s a superb actor, a very young, energetic and flirty Skimble.

I noticed this yesterday already - Jenny stands at the head of the train with Tumble, Pounce and Al during the first stanza (before the ‘sleeping car’ narrative). After Al’s been stunned by Skimble’s grass-green eyes, he falls backwards slowly - Tumble and Pounce race up to catch him, then Jenny bustles up, patting his cheek to wake him up.

Today, she was a bit too enthusiastic, it looked more like a full-blown slap, which Al obviously didn’t like, since he glared at her threateningly. *cute*

Tugger was less obvious than yesterday - much as I like his voice, he just doesn’t have a knack for poetry. His short recital before ‘Mr Misto’ was, imo, badly emphasized. I don’t mind his slapping his tail onto the car boot as he says his lines, though it doesn’t work with the way he’s talking that well. I must hand it to him that he is trying.

And he performs the ‘Misto number’ very well, flawless and fluid movements - it is also the song where he sings most and his voice comes out best. It has a timbre I particularly enjoy.

Cary is so very energetic during his number - he is turning out to be one of the best Mistos I’ve seen. His dancing is getting better each day. The choreography is really cool too, different to London at places. What I particularly like is the split Misto does in front, stage right. (As usual when someone does this particular move all I can say is *ouch* ;D).

I’m also very fond of the cartwheel - and of the fact Cary is wearing gloves - got used to that while seeing Jacob (Brent) in London - it’s really stylish ;D. Poor Misto was lifted a little unsteadily again - he has to stand up, supported by Al and Tumble this time - Pounce and Mungo in front and Munkus behind him in case he should fall.

To my great relief he is lowered down the 8 metres onto the stage with a special hand sling as safety measure. That sort of drop is scary!

Cary is very fluid and graceful in his movements and he has an adorable, cheeky grin. When he blew out his spotlight at the end of his number (which was actually turned off completely, unlike yesterday, when he was still illuminated during Silla’s first few ‘Daylight’ lines) I was actually sighing ;D. (In case you wonder, that’s a *good* sign ;D)

Today I noticed that no gobos (1) are projected onto the starlit sky backdrop during ‘Memory’, which I liked immensely in London since it gave the scene an ethereal and yet strangely real feeling. However, the moon in Stuttgart is beautiful. Wow. It glows wonderfully milk-white.

Addressing:

Plato and Cassie did the “we’re-mystical-twins-and-our-movements-are-perfectly-in-synch” routine standing side by side. Very impressive ;D.

Deuty (Jason W. Kennedy) was so cool. Definitely one of the best renditions of this particular song. That voice! Beautiful emphasis and a really adorable Santa Claus type chuckling laugh for “A cat is not …hahaha… a dog”. He’s a treat, both in this teddy bear interpretation and in his marvellous singing.

Bows:

Tugger carried Misto on the stage on his back - really cute ;D. Al did a cool sort of lift/roll thing with Demi (Sachmet said it reminded her of Rock’n’Roll movements) where she was rotating around his shoulder.

Bomba dragged Plato behind her by his tail, flung him on his back and sat down on his stomach. Deut ran onstage at full speed, flung himself on his belly and slid to a stop. Nice greyish blue leggings he wore too, matching his coat ;D.

Cass and Vic came out together, twirling their tails. Yesterday they did a spirited little dance, today they lifted their right legs up very slowly, parallel to their bodies *ouch*. Looked cool ;D.

Pounce and Jenny do a sort of hopping gorilla entry and then something reminiscent of jumping jacks, only more elegant. Can’t explain it much better I’m afraid ;D.

Misto was obviously a little unsure what to make of Tugger’s sudden howls (echoed by some of the audience…you know that ‘hey’… ‘hey’ type of thing) - he steepled his fingers, trying to look elsewhere, then put his face behind his hands. Cass found it really amusing though, she couldn’t stop laughing.

(1) gobo (pl. gobos)
2 Theatre a partial screen used in front of a spotlight to project a shape.
- ORIGIN 1930s: of unknown origin, perh. ffrom “go between”
Concise Oxford Dictionary (10th edition)


June 22nd, 2002 (evening)

STALLS

Another topsy-turvy review of mine, be very afraid ;D.

I noticed that, in the pyramid in ‘Jellicle Songs’, Jerrie and Tumble teased Jelly who stood between them mercilessly and how Munk patted Misto’s head. Cute! We had Griz near us for ‘Naming’ again, she’s got excellent intonation. Beautiful. Jerrie passed us as well. Such a lovely voice and superb recitation.

At the end of ‘Naming’, as the cast was already running out of the auditorium, whispering “Name”, we heard a loud “Ouch” coming from stage right, the passage that a few of the ladies are going through to get backstage. Goes to show it’s a live show *grins*

Cori’s mic didn’t properly work during ‘Jellicle Songs’ - I actually recognised Andrew (Millar) the moment he came out ;D. He was wonderfully in synch with Tanto and they were adorable together.

They circled each other very gracefully between their “bark wars” in ‘Pekes’, having a little catfight. Tant playfully batted Cori’s ears then, *cuteness*, and she also turned a sleepy Plato over before pouncing upon him and then rolling him onto his side again when he had settled on the stage just before ‘MOH’.

Vicky (Souzan Alavi) is so adorable - she grins happily before going into the splits, then wipes the floor with her arm warmer, winks at the audience, then lies down to await Misto. Love that choreography. It brings out a very kittenish, playful white cat.

David Boyd back as Alonzo - he is very flexible and graceful, though I found him to be less openly “romantic” in his attentions to Demi. He seems to like giving his lady head rubs though, adorable! ;D He’s also a goofy, funny Rumpus though he remains poised and elegant throughout.

‘Gumbie’: Jenny pushed first roach Jerrie aside roughly, he stumbled and practically slid off the stage, landing in the junk. He came back though, frowning and enraged, glaring daggers at the Gumbie, then looked into the oven and, with a huge grin, tapped it with his knife before opening it for his fellow roaches.

During ‘RTT’, Misto lay down on the car boot, twirling his tail slightly bored, then Bomb came to him, flirting of course. She sat by him, then turned onto her back and held out her arms to him. The seduction didn’t properly work as she began slipping down the boot. She started grinning as she managed to gracefully slide to the floor. *lol*

Mungo almost fell over when Tugger did his “About it” and for the last delivery of the line he was actually covering his ears with an expression of supreme suffering. And added to that, Rumple wasn’t paying any attention to him. *argh* ;D

Tugger, quite the playboy, was annoying two ladies today during his song - he pulled up one against her resistance, danced her along the aisle, left her standing there and dragged another woman along. ;D

Cori and Tant danced marvellously just before Griza came out and they drew back from the group in one perfectly synchronous movement. Admirable!

I’ve favourably noted this before but I don’t think I’ve mentioned it. It’s a move of Grizabella’s that is very poignant in connection with the lyrics and serves to vividly create an insight into the character.

For “in the light of the door that stands open like a grin” (free translation of the German text), Griz runs her hand slowly along her upper body, to pull her coat back from her thigh on “stands open”. She’s facing Munkus and to me it’s a very open ‘invitation’ and show of what she is/was. Hey, I like good acting ;D

Before scratching Griz, I saw Tumble’s mischievous grin - a born rascal that one - and he even looked as if he were giggling behind his paw once the deed was accomplished. Daymon is flawlessly elegant, a brilliant dancer and light-footed acrobat. He was flirting heavily with Cassie - only receiving hisses and slaps for his tries ;D.

You gotta love his antics and mimics, he’s always smiling, especially when in motion (which he constantly is btw ;D) - a perfectly adorable, happy and boundlessly energetic kitten. Much like Sarah-Jane Honeywell’s Etcetera ;D.

Kelly Robertson (Bus, Gus, Growl) is very good indeed, though I must admit to paying more attention to the background this time round.

In ‘Bustopher’ Misto cleaned the top hat with a sharp twirl of his tail and Pounce and Tumble (Daymon Montaigne-Jones) were just too cute! When Bus started his tap dancing in the air, both of them put their arms out to their sides, puffed air into their cheeks and mimicked him, rolling backwards and doing somersaults, sly grins on their faces.

Skimble pulled Bus down to sit, breaking his hand in the process, which he waved about gingerly with accusing glances at the cat-about-town. After the Mac scare, Jenny and Bus were in the aisle, trying to get away, but they always ran into the wrong direction, bumping into each other a few times in their headlong flight. ;D

Now, Marc (Leslie) was brilliant. His voice is so beautiful - silky, smooth and warm (to forego the ‘voice like honey’ cliché ;D) - a real treat to hear. As Jerrie, he was able to fully play out his kittenish side, he was teasing everybody, especially Rumple though and the two of them were a marvellous pair. When he kicked her butt as they came out for their number, she screeched, very loudly, “Ouch”.

In ‘Pekes’ Mungo, instead of cowering in fright, fell flat on his back, petrified. He lost a shoe box, but didn’t stir. The second look he received from Rumpus obviously revived him magically, and he scrambled off the stage like a cat possessed, kicking his shoe box in front of him *lol*

Before the ‘Ball’ starts, just after the Mac scare, Munkus stands protectively in front of Old D who gently brushes him aside with a touch to his shoulder. Very nice gesture and a wonderful look exchanged before Munk moves away. Vic comes out just as Misto and Skimble edge out from behind Deuty, see each other and bolt.

Vicky goes to Deut for a hug, then proceeds to slink around frightened. Silla hides behind Munk, peeking out from under his arm twice, he then shows her towards Vic and the ‘invitation to the Ball’ begins.

I need to mention the ‘Mating Dance’ of course - watching Daymon and Souzan. Wow. Tumble touched Vic gently, rubbing his head against hers - she looked ready to purr ;D. Perfect lift, even though poor Daymon’s view was obscured by the fluffy white tail in front of his face as he turned around.

Another few couples for the ‘partner dance’ in the first part of the ‘Jellicle Ball’ - Tug and Bom, Munk and Jenny (the letter being escorted up the tire before the bum rubbing sequence begins).

Raced out during intermission to write down the cast list. I had been hoping to find those copied lists again, no chance though. So I had to wait in front of the screen and piece everything together. What with my slow writing ;D...

Before ‘MOH’, Tumble crawled along the aisle behind Cass and pulled her tail. Big mistake ;D. She turned around, hissed at him audibly and scared him so much he did a backwards somersault, trying to get away.

Cara Hamilton (Cass) is very small, like Emma Woods, but also a perfectly poised lady, very elegant and stylish, fluid grace personified.

Tanto and Silla (Kristi Mancini) were playing with an empty bottle before ‘MOH’ - I can’t help but think the mystic twins are teens, if not kittens. How cute! Cori carried Tant offstage on his shoulder in perfect pose after the bows btw. Wow.

During ‘Gus’, Deuty was cuddling Jemi, Vicky, Pounce and Tumble who sat with him on the tire and the steps leading to it. They were great fun to watch. Vic was grooming herself, with the occasional reaching up to comb through Deut’s beard and fur. Pounce was, in the meantime, fluffing up Old D’s tail, then he cleaned his own and ended up having it in his mouth and looking ahead like a lost little kitty. *argh*

Vicky was, of course, tickling Tumble’s chest now and then - so he wouldn’t get jealous of all the attention she paid to Deuty I suppose ;D. Tumble was making adorable faces throughout in reaction to Jelly’s and Gus’ narration I think. Then Vic raised herself up to hug Old D, kneeling in front of him as he gently patted her back. Pounce, not to be outdone, flung himself at the “old guy” for a bear hug as well, then snuggled close into the grey coat with a happy smile.

‘GLS’: Alonzo (I’m pretty sure) tried to catch or behead the canary Munkus had on his shoulder with his hook, while the toms were singing about Growl waiting for Griddle.

I can now confirm that Misto wears glasses as a pirate ;D. He also polishes the floor on his knees with those huge white paws he’s wearing. Must be stuffy and hot in that cossie, poor thing ;D. I do adore his accent, did I mention that? ;D Al jumped off board with a scream again today, I love that!

The Siamese are running all through the aisles, I particularly enjoy that - it’s also great fun trying to spot them in between the junk overhanging the auditorium on the right and left side before they come out. *winks*

Ghenghis (Mungo aka Marc) was the cutest. As he ran through the audience, he gave little screams and he used a high pitched voice for his lines. Superb. One of the best comic actors I’ve seen, he added a lot of emphasis to the text with his gestures to embellish his actions. Wow. No wonder I had to update my dream cast *lol*

‘Skimble’: Jonathan Tilly has a wonderful voice and a fab interpretation - he comes across as a slightly older railway cat than Marc (note the *slightly* ;D). He’s full of energy and gave us a perfect rendition of his lyrics, with a extra bits of emphasis here and there, especially for the “tea drinking bit” that added to the overall effect. Lovely play of feature as well.

Pounce (Jamie Karitzis) gave Mungo a hearty cardiac massage after the poor guy had fainted dead on Rumple’s loud sneeze - Vicky was, as usual, very disgusted at having been sneezed at.

‘Macavity’ was stunning as always - Al was the first to reappear as the queens danced, he sat up on the pipe watching them. Then I noticed Skimble and Pounce on the car boot, the latter still seemed very scared. *cute* As the ladies shouted their last “Macavity” before the hip swings, both Skimble and Pounce held their hands over their ears *grins*

I so miss the loud explosion London Maccy got - I’ve never seen more than a spark and heard a slight plop when Stuttgart Mac puts the cables together. However, Misto’s “small” explosions are garish light and very loud. I noticed how great the smoke looks in the pink, blue and purple lighting - it makes it look as if it was actually the wispy fumes that were ‘conjured up’ in various colours. Wonderfully atmospheric!

While Tugger did his little recitation before ‘Mr Misto’, he threw in an audible “Ouch” as he jumped from the boot onto the tire. Must’ve stubbed his toe hard, poor fellow. *grins* He also has a very interesting way helping Misto do his magic. He stands with his back to the audience and audibly flicks his tail across his butt.

Paul Channon - the elusive cast member who didn’t quite appear in London though he was in the programme - was on as Misto. Great surprise! He had the strongest accent of all the cast that I’ve heard yet, I loved it! (Sue me, I find accents cute ;D)

He’s elegant while dancing, though his movements usually tend to be rough. He stomps about on stage - macho body builder style. He’s also got a very cocky interpretation, works marvellously with Tugger’s ;D. During the ‘Misto Nr.’ I especially noticed how energetic he is, kicking the air out of the very air. His pirouettes were ok, he seemed a bit off on timing during the ‘Jellicle Ball’ and his landings weren’t always smooth.

In ‘Mr Misto’ he left out a few bits of choreography and sat down instead of going into the splits. I also noted that his jumps after the conjuring turns were a tad sloppy as if he were tired. However, his split jump off the tire (not the uppermost step) was just *wow* - one of the most beautiful ones I’ve ever seen a Misto do.

‘Memory I’ was fab, ‘Memory II’ absolutely wonderful till “Morgengrauen” (“at dawn”) - got too loud at times. But the acting was fantastic, very convincing throughout, something I enjoy very much.

Kristi was a wonderful kitten Silla, playful and funny. She sang her solos very quietly, a softness that I liked exceedingly. It might have been that her mic was turned down a bit too much though.

‘Heaviside’ - Tumble lay beneath the tire (Rumple to his right from pov of the audience) and he was treading the air (like Vic does in her solo) as if pedalling the tire upwards. Nice legs ;D.

Deuty (Jason W. Kennedy) - definitely a favourite of mine - was, once again, doing his “Santa Claus laugh” in the “a cat is not a dog” line during ‘Addressing’, only that this time round the rest of the cast echoed him. They started grinning as one of course. It was marvellous to see!

While the orchestra was coming out for their bows, Bomba and Plato leant against the oven side by side. Bomb then bumped her hips against Plato’s, he grinned like a madman, edged away just a bit and then came closer so she could bump into him again. *grins*

There was a little girl sitting in the aisle row who wore Tugger make-up - beautifully done btw - and cast members were always stopping in front of her to smile at her or pat her head. Especially Vicky, Skimble, Jerrie, Deuty, Plato and Tumble stopped a few times (the others were probably not supposed to be there due to choreography ;D).


June 23rd, 2002 (matinee)

STALLS

I apologize in advance for any typos, unintelligible sentences or the like; this was typed up in a hurry - please feel free to tell me if you find anything amiss. ;D

The light bulb chains begin glowing just before the cast comes out with their cats’ eyes during the ‘Overture’. At first the lights are golden, then the blue, yellow, red, green and orange kick in. The chains also blink at various times during the ‘Ball’ and even on leaving the theatre, they are the most amazing sight - wonderful atmosphere…

Misto rapped on the car boot with his knuckles today instead of trampling before Jenny came out and after his line in ‘RTT’, he was sprawling up there with Cassie again.

Pounci (Giuliano again) is the cutest when he does his cross-stitching with the queen kits in ‘Gumbie’ - very nice, even stitches too ;D. I can’t help but love that innocent and bewildered expression of his when he tries to get to Griz and is held back by Jelly in ‘Glamour Cat’ and Jenny during ‘Memory II’.

Rumple’s microphone was filtering out all tones except for the highest ones during ‘MJ & RT’ - the mics in general didn’t work that well today. I got the feeling Teaze was screaming at times to be heard at all. Poor thing - she carried it off admirably though.

After Old D’s appearance after the song, Alonzo (Andrew Millar, being much more poignant and expressive in this than David Boyd) edges towards Demeter, reaching out gently and, when she shies back, he slinks offstage with a look of despair to get into his Rumpus cossie.

Andrew is a great Al - wonderful acting and good dancing too, but unfortunately his jumped pirouettes were obviously badly carried out. It was noticeable, since he lost his footing on each landing, almost falling over. Perhaps that’s not his strongest point. *shrugs*

Skimble (Jonathan Tilly) and Misto (Cary Chennel) leaned against the stage as they kneeled on the steps for the first part of ‘Pekes’ and watched the rest of the cast, before dumping their costumes on the first row as usual ;D. Very nice view we were treated to *winks*

I love the way Alexander (Munkus) mimics the little hiccup of the drunk watch dog, then looks thoroughly disgusted and shakes his head (whether it’s because he got carried away or because he thinks ill of the dog I can’t ascertain ;D) and also the lovely hip swing with which he pushes Rumpus away when the latter leans against him. Today, he was growling shortly and harshly *grins*

Before the queens’ dance at the ‘Ball’, Tumble does his series of back flips, landing in front of Bomba, who twice runs her hands along his upper body which does, of course, lead Al, Misto and Pounce to jealousy ;D. I thought there was some new sound to the music for some parts of the ‘Ball’ btw.

Sachmet pointed Growl’s inflatable muscles out to me only yesterday, so cool! And one of the Siamese keeps behind while Ghenghis circles Gus in the end, waiting for the curtain to fall down so he/she can pull it off the stage with them. I noticed that the Hamburg curtain has the name of the song in German on it, while in Stuttgart it was in English.

Sachmet and I think it might have been Tanto in Siamese costume who held Growl’s tail as if she were leading a dog on a leash as he was led towards the “plank” (aka railing of the ship).

Since I was keeping my eyes on Al again, I noticed exactly how he came to jump off board - he was hauling the (non-existent) ropes of a sail while standing on the railing. Growl laughed out loud, Tugger jumped back in fright, upsetting Al’s balance. Later on, I saw Skimble go briefly overboard as well. When Griddle was prancing about the stage with Growl, Tugger mimicked a few pelvis thrusts at her - until his captain saw him and kicked him viciously - he joined the rest of the crew in their “cabins” then. ;D

I am now perfectly convinced that Griddle acts as a decoy for the Siamese. She was motioning for someone to come out already as she lay on the floor just before the aria with exasperation written plainly on her features. After the duet, she is draped seductively on the stage, but when Growl tries to kiss her, she puts her hand to his lips and holds out her leg to him instead.

When he takes up that offer, she yawns, only smiling sweetly while he looks back at her. She is also being very overly dramatic in her exit, mimicking a stylish faint (by holding her hand to her forehead and swooning slightly) before she leaves the stage. I still very much miss the London Griddle’s screams *winks*

Jonathan is great fun to watch as ‘Skimble’, his intonations are wonderful, he definitely is one of my fave actors in the role. You can see he’s enjoying himself and that always makes a performance a joy to see and a treat imo.

Roimata Templeton was doing Bombalurina. I thought her voice was too high for Grizabella, as Bomba she was much better, deeper in tone than when she was playing the Glamour Cat. She’s sexy, alluring, though I found her acting to be a bit monotonous at times. Might simply be me. I liked her intonations in ‘Macavity’ very much, but she began shouting mid-way through the song which I thought didn’t quite get the atmosphere across.

Tanja-Maria - as Demeter this time - did the same; I loved her as Bomb, but she didn’t quite come across that well as Dem for me, especially in her emphasis of her lines which I felt was a bit off at times. However, the two of them were an excellent team, working seamlessly with each other.

Christine Haaga is a superb Cassandra - I really need to mention that. Perfectly poised and elegant, with a touch of superiority and a dignified air. Untouchable yet still somewhat approachable if you know how to. Very much in tune with the character she plays.

Coricopat (Andrew J. Gardner) and Tantomile (the grand Fiona Watters) did great together, though they were not always in complete synch. Tant played with a plastic bottle before ‘MOH’, joined briefly by Sillabub and both Skimble and Munku were obviously tempted to join in - so cute! Rumple and Mungo once again climbed across the seats to the stage amidst much laughter ;D.

I love Jelly’s (Maryanne Kelly) enthusiastic support for Gus, rooting for him so he’ll get the applause he deserves. She’s quite mischievous when she talks about his “vices” (like going for a drink), but still very proud of the old guy. Wonderful interpretation.

Today’s Plato (Paul Channon) was more sleepy than usually. In fact, each time I looked at him, he was dozing or being nudged or shaken awake by his companions. I also didn’t notice a lot of interaction, but I gotta say that’s probably cause I didn’t concentrate on him enough. He came across as a true background cat - he is, as I’ve had the chance to see - a very good dancer, energetic and sure in his moves. His timing was, however, not too good, he came too late with the choreography, I particularly saw that during the ‘Ball’.

On the other hand, his Macavity… He’s not exactly tall, about Alonzo’s height, with Munkus fairly towering over him. And the costume made him look like a toilet brush - the hair sticking up in all directions was too long I suppose. But appearances sure are deceiving.

From the moment he set foot on the stage, that ginger cat was *the fiend*. The harshest, meanest and strongest Mac I’ve seen, also the single most convincing bully. The gait that, as Misto, was in my eyes inappropriate, suited perfectly.

And even after he’d shouldered Demi (very easily - he carried her about as if she were no weight at all, really impressive ;D), he lashed out at Munk, Al and the others, with a careless accuracy that left me speechless. Think of Bud Spencer (or Hulk Hogan) walking around, beating all opposition as if they were mere flies accosting him.

What I thought was way cute *winks* was the boxer’s stance he took, with both fists raised in front of his face as he beckoned to Alonzo. His style of “fighting” lend an air of reality to the whole thing, when Munku and Al went down, one really thought they’d been hit - and hard at that.

Sure thing, the interpretation wouldn’t be in line with the poem (“suavity” or “crime master-mind” are the last words I would associate with this Maccy), but Paul just made a really cool baddy, the real hand-on type. I enjoyed it immensely ;D.

Here’s to Mr Mistoff! Cary has managed to win me over so completely he’s now sharing first place with Jacob Brent as best magic cat ;D. I was really surprised by how flawless Cary danced, he has improved marvellously since May and he has no trouble keeping it up throughout the whole of his number.

His interpretation is that of a fairly mature, a little self-important guy, a bit shy at times and yet quite flirty. He is marvellous to watch during the ‘Ball’, always smiling, obviously enjoying himself. And I find his ‘Invitation’ to be wonderfully performed, with an excellent intonation.

Another surprise - I must convince myself to have been thoroughly convinced by Alexander Wengel as Munkus. His voice needed a bit of adjustment, but his performance is fantastic. He presents his character well-rounded, no loose ends, makes him friendly and caring while keeping some distance. He’s protective and bustling with a good sense of humour, smiling often and easily. Definitely a favourite of mine in this role now.

Brian Bowley is a great Old D, very agile. His German is perfect as I found out when I went to get his autograph during intermission, hardly the hint of an accent. Wow. Nice job for ‘Addressing’, though I suppose Jason Kennedy has spoiled me forever ;D.

I have noticed (probably being the last one to do so as usual ;D) that the actors/actresses seem to have less room for interpretation of their characters than in London. Each and every gesture as well as the interaction is pretty much the same, even with different performers taking the role (Paul’s Mac definitely being an exception *winks*). It is therefore extremely interesting to observe mimics and the intonations since they are the poignant “changes” affected.