OCTOBER 2001 (by Triskell)

October 4, 2001

October 5, 2001

October 6, 2001 (matinee)

October 6, 2001 (evening)


go to Cast Lists October 2001

go to Stagedoor October 2001


October 4, 2001 (evening)

MOVING PLATFORM, A 29, 30

We came back yet again. Just one more trip before the *sniffling* cast change. There are some performers we’ll miss tremendously…

Ah, the ‘Naming’ - it was awesome to say the least. Jake sat directly in front of us, staring up dreamily, totally enraptured it seemed - (well I was enraptured at any rate ;D); he intoned each and every word with utter conviction. *sighs* On “perpendicular” he turned his tail around, which came to rest on his shoulder afterwards so he had to bat it off with his hand.

Sarah-Jane (Etcy) was in front of us for a while too, she has a lovely voice to match the bubbly kitten she plays. Apart from being a grand dancer and amazing acrobat she just plain rocks!

Her facial expressions are fabulous. And she’s mischievous, never keeps still. She had Rumple’s tail in her mouth during ‘Gus’, and Munk’s after the ‘Curtain Call’. At the end of ‘Skimble’ she lay on stomach, then rolled forward, crossed arms under her chest and raised her legs high into the air - wow. She kept this position up with the greatest ease, not even wobbling in the slightest. *claps*

I did say once before that I love the pirouette/turn (whatever it’s called, no technical ballet terms can be expected from me ;D) Jake does before leaving the stage in ‘Gumbie’. I wasn’t sure at first, but today I was confirmed in that he does that same turn during the ‘Ball’ as well, just before he, Carb and Jerrie do their hip swings.

The improvised catfight in ‘Gumbie’ was *cute* - Misto and Al turned about and measured each other up. When Munk scratched Jenny’s tail Jake hopped about on his ramp (to our left), sliding from side to side as if nervous, his eyes never leaving Jenny’s face.

MJ and RT lay on the car boot after their song as usual. Rumple sat behind Jerrie, who had his legs sticking up and she was pulling his hands against her chest with one arm, while waving to Tug with the other, never letting go of Jerrie. *cute* I should say now that poor Mungo looks like a mop with his shoulder fluffies. There’s far too many of them, either someone wants to give him the air of a dignified army general or they just tried to get rid of some spare wool ;D.

As usual Etcy rubbed her head between Tug’s thighs and grinned when he stiffened and stalked away, putting her arm up as if to say, “Oh yeah, that was me!” According to Sachmet she was mimicking the pose for “Victory!” *grins*

At the mating dance we once again saw her moving in perfect synch with Misto, before laid her down and she rubbed her head against his stomach.

During the ‘Ball’ Deut was sitting on the tire and I noticed (ok, so he probably does it all the time, but I hardly ever pay attention to him *hides*) he was moving his arms about, mimicking the dancers’ movements.

Since Sarah-Jane was back as Etcy we had the privilege of seeing her cartwheels/walkovers during the ‘Ball’ again - wow. She’s amazing! Jake’s turns were just as lovely and he looked adorable as he cleaned his shoulder fluffies just before Deut began singing the ‘MOH’.

What I thought was especially nice today was that Carby and Misto were much more in synch as they danced together. Jye is a cute Carb, with adorable facial expressions, bolder than Thomas who still retains position of fave Carby with me *smiles*.

Though I would say Jye’s timing has improved tremendously. His enthusiasm did cover quite a few ‘missteps’ imo - I just like it when people get into the spirit ;D. What I found was that he has drastically bettered his makeup. It looked somewhat sloppy at times, now it’s more detailed, more finer lines, not as heavy.

There’s still quite a bit too much black on his cheeks, though that’s just me I suppose ;D. Poor guy’s wearing that same grey costume with those garish yellow stripes, which does not match his warmers (which are more red/earthen brown and white) - but I’m repeating myself here…

During ‘Gus’ I noticed how Adme made a loop with his arms; El slipped through it, smiling - *adorable*. Sachmet pointed out to me that Gareth (Gus) was trampling his feet on the ground beneath his long cloak, looked really cute. We’re not quite sure if he was having palsy in his legs or was merely impatient ;D.

Etcy was, in the meantime, talking to a very bored Tug who lay dangling from the pipe ;D while El on the right and Rumple on the left cuddled up close to Old D.

As usual, Gareth was splendid as Growltiger! Oliver’s Ghenghis screams were even higher pitched than last time I heard him. I can’t even begin to understand how he varies his voice that way! Wow.

After Munk got kneed in the groin again, he hobbled back to face a laughing Misto *surprise* and Skimble was quite fascinated by the way the tabby held his hand protectively in front of him. He reached out very slowly, steadily edging his hand closer but had it slapped audibly away by enraged Munku (did I see Ross grin from ear to ear there? *grins*)

It was quite funny to hear Billy as he sang with the Siamese - I’ve heard him sing during ‘MOH’ and he sounds totally different. I’d love to actually see him in another role where I can make up my mind about his voice *grins*

Ross is a grand Skimble, I love his singing, voice, interpretation, well everything really ;D. But I must say I miss Thomas’ accent - I’ve grown very fond of that Scottish touch it seems. Helen Baker is wonderful as Jemi, not my favourite, but I always enjoy seeing her. Old D held his hands in front of her eyes again (to prevent her from seeing Tug’s hip thrust in ‘Pekes’), but once again she peered up behind his hands to catch a glimpse.

Some more “Aspects of Lighting” (yep, that was intended as a pun ;D) now from ‘Macavity’: Bomba has a red spotlight coming from the front, Dem’s red spotlight is from stage right (it’s the same spotlight that Griddle has on her, hand operated, we saw the guy up there) and both have white lights from the front following them as well. Really makes for a sort of gloomy and steamy atmosphere ;D.

Before Maccy’s unmasked, Tanto ran wild, trying to point out that it was Mac in disguise to Munk who looked at Demi’s reaction as if she were crazy. Didn’t think much better of Tant, for he gripped her hard on the upper arms as if trying to shake some sense into her *tsk*. She continued hissing and pointing in vain, until he pushed her away roughly, almost sending her flying.

Dem rolls in on herself after Mac’s let her down, she doesn’t kick at him and I don’t think she was stunned as was Emma Woods - might have missed it though. Barbara seemed surprised, not shocked and panicked as she was picked up and flung across Maccy’s shoulder.

During this song, we were kinda occupied with Jerrie who sat beside us, clawing at the mattress that lies in the pipe Cassie comes out from for ‘Jellicle Songs’. His attention was soon taken by the dancing women though, he wriggled his head as he followed their hip swings and movements across the stage in deep concentration. *laughs*

‘Misto nr’ - does anyone really want me to use up my store of expressions of delight and admiration? *grins* Jake was wonderful as always, brilliant rendition of the dance, the spins…everything. I saw today that it’s silver glitter on his face, there’s none on his wig, but I think he’s put some on his chest fluffies.

It’s interesting that it seems that each time I see the Misto costume it has more crystals on it. Not that I mind the sparkling…together with Jake’s grin it’s absolutely enthralling. I couldn’t help grinning when Misto threw away his red blanket after bringing Old D back - it fluttered off the stage, right onto a little boy in row A to our right. *giggles*

What I might mention here is that the suspicion I had after seeing the CATS vid one too many times was confirmed today - as John said his “Please listen to me and don’t scoff” he used a softer voice - and I noticed that Bomb was, before he spoke up, on the verge of leaving the stage, with an expression of contempt. Some of the other ‘elders’ had also turned away from Tug.

After ‘Misto’, Etcy and Tugger lay side by side in the dark, almost touching. As Munk began talking they sat up, turned around and Etcy leant against Tug’s shoulder, he put his arm around her and kept stroking her upper arm lightly *melted*.

Now, dear John has finally convinced me without a doubt that there’s not a bit of cold-hearted conceitedness in his Tugger, no matter how hard I look. *winks*

Just before ‘Heaviside’, as the tribe’s welcoming Griz back, Munku was looking as if he were close to tears. Was kinda disturbing imo, not at all in line with his interpretation. *shrugs* Just me. Misto touched Carby’s hand in passing before the latter climbs onto stage to join the rest of the cast for the song.

After the ‘Curtain Call’, John was making a show of singing into his tail, dancing and hip swinging like a rock star, but neither Misto nor Griz noticed him. So he tapped Jake on the shoulder, stepped past him, slighted Chrissie and accepted Misto’s arms for a wild hop off the stage. (yes, I know I mention this every time, but it’s just sooooooo adorable!)

And some random thoughts that won’t fit anywhere else…Cassie has her microphone on the left side of her head, it comes out of wig just above her eyebrow. For ‘Addressing’ Sachmet and I think that Jake had no mic (we still don’t know for sure), but since he was so close we could hear that he sang very deeply. He also smiled in our direction before he went off stage just before the ‘Curtain Call’.

Jake was yelping exceedingly highly during ‘Pekes’, along with Billy (did I mention Joe doesn’t only make a cute doggie but also an adorable cockroach? ;D) I’ve noticed before but I don’t think I’ve written it down yet - during ‘Memory’, gobos are projected onto the moon that look like clouds floating by. Wow. Dreamy is all I can say ;D.

I should say that Candice is a very striking and extraordinarily beautiful Cassandra. Her makeup is lovely, complimenting her costume (even in terms of colour), there are warm reddish browns and gold shadows around her eyes and on her eyelids.

While speaking of makeup - Barbara’s lipstick is the exact same shade of red that can be found in her wig. Looks good, especially if you see that her unitard is yellow-golden and black, with not a trace of red. Sachmet also said that she had a bit of gold around her eyes, I missed that.

October 5, 2001 (evening)

MOVING PLATFORM, B 31, 32

Before the show we saw Andrew Wright walking along the moving platform twice - before he went backstage. So we knew there was a swing there in case someone couldn’t continue ;D.

I gotta say that I’m glad that Mr. Ashley wasn’t playing today. I heard he had trouble with his back again and I do believe it’s better he cured that once and for all since he’s been labouring on it for so long already. And yes, I admit that I’m not unhappy to see Kenny taking on the silver tabby…I think it’s just HIS role. *smiles*

A few quite interesting instances occurred as the woman sitting in front of us tried to ‘feed the kitties’ repeatedly; the results were a totally scared Etcy (during Vic’s solo dance) who shied away uncertainly, eyeing her and the titbit with huge eyes, padding forward and back nervously, wrinkling her nose. Totally cat-like.

And MJ (during ‘Mac’) wasn’t prepared for having a hand waved in front of his eyes or being tapped on the shoulder - he jumped back (almost knocking into the seats behind), hissing loudly and kept away from the woman, peering over the set and prowling the right side of the aisle only, his head following the dancing ladies with little sideward glances spared in our direction.

Demi was also offered food as she crawled past, she wasn’t exactly impressed, nor did she like her back being stroked or so I gathered from the look on her face. Jemi didn’t really seem put out at being touched, though she went by pretty fast.

El wriggles her butt in time to the music as she tumbles out for ‘Jellicle Songs’, she was grinning at Rumple and spurring her on during ‘Pekes’ - commiserating with her after Munk’s ‘rough’ treatment (he bumped her away with his hip “The Peke…is no British dog but a heathen Chinese”) .

Sachmet told me she saw Misto boldly run his hand up Jelly’s leg before ‘Naming’ *winks*. Those two can be seen chatting at any and all times btw, esp. during ‘RTT’ when the latter lounges on the tire.

The ‘Naming’…goodness, this is definitely one of the most beautiful recitations I’ve ever heard. Just a few bits and pieces that I especially noted today: Jake preens himself on “gentleman”, indicates Bomb on “dames”, twirls his tail on “perpendicular”, then sinks down with a pirouette (see Vid’s ‘Gumbie Cat’) and proceeds to slowly crawl along the edge of the stage.

He sits down now and then, kneading his paws (ah…hands, sorry ;D) on the floor at the mention of special names (Quaxo, Munkustrap), though he doesn’t react especially to his own name and he rolls “Bombalurina” off his tongue. Then, from “but above and beyond” on, he sits totally still, seemingly staring into space, giving weight to each and every word, on “his name” he puts special emphasis on HIS, staring intently heavenward. He’s also intoning “effable” and “ineffable” as if either contemplating the meaning or testing the word’s flavour on his tongue.

After this, and Jake’s singing his little solo I was already totally done for - and then came the ‘Invitation’…did I ever mention that Kenny is fabulous? He keeps his voice low and thereby creates this storyteller flair that I enjoy so immensely because it compliments the poetry at this point. (yep, I’m picky. I love poetry!) He’s also very graceful up on his car boot, never losing the connection with the group below.

A little change in the “opening the car boot” routine for ‘Gumbie’ - Misto was sitting in front of Vic this time round, she was running her hand up along his thigh, grinning and when he had worked his magic he leant back against her. They nuzzled and Jake washed Emma’s shoulder fluffies while he was at it ;D.

Ah, the little catfight - one of THE highlights each day ;D. Jake came back from catching Jenny’s tail today, caught Al’s as he rolling onto his back and the latter turned around and looked down on him as Misto started making small swipes at him, batting his ‘ears’. Munk broke them up and Jake continued to lie on his side a little while longer before getting to his knees and watching Jenny’s every move from top of the ramp.

Jake shouted something in the line of “Come on” at the end of the song btw, I couldn’t quite make out the words.

I noticed that Etcy was staring at Tug, worship written across her face during ‘RTT’ when the young queens ran their hands along their bodies (“offer me cream”) and wriggled their shoulders. *grins*. Sachmet tells me that Jake danced along with the toms on the right side of the stage for the first half of the song, I missed that *sighs*.

Some more things during ‘RTT’ - Clinton did hip swings and threw his leg up so high he almost knocked himself out (kinda like Lindsey’s Jemi who has the same “problem” ;D), wow. *sizzling* Skimble tried to dance along behind the group in the background, but gave up. He then started shaking his head in exasperation and walked forward, saying (quite audibly) with a tad of irritation, “Stop it!” *laughs*

Adme made sure Victor was presentable for Bustopher’s appearance by smoothing his wig and dusting off his shoulder fluffies. Those two are curling about each other as soon as they are together, really sweet. I noted that Kenny doesn’t descend on them with a vengeance after they’ve scratched Griz, he prefers hissing audibly, swiping and looking his reproof as he towers above them (seems to work quite effectively ;D)

Mungo and Rumple have two yellow lights (stage left and right) following them along with the star-shaped white lights, though the yellow ones don’t hop about ;D. After their song the two kneeled on the car boot as always, they were hugging (at Rumple’s insistence) and swaying slowly about to the song.

Rumple was, time and again, trying to get Jerrie to put his hand on her thigh, but he always pulled it back up around her waist (and he had his fingers curled in so that he never really put his palm onto her).

Then Teaze slid down the boot on her back, legs up in the air and Mungo followed her so they could twine about each other; Rumple tried again to get Jerrie to touch her, but he didn’t seem to want to, he only started scratching the inside of her thigh with enthusiasm to indicate that Old D was approaching. Kate always snaps her garters after the last “and Rumpleteazer” I’ve noted.

Munku and Tug had me in various stages of melting during ‘Old D’, those two are always in such perfect harmony *sighing*. Kenny is warm, calm and very much the protector while never putting himself forward, more quietly reassuring. He’s always poised, always in character and did I mention I LOVE his voice? ;D

Unlike David Ashley (in his new interpretation), he also keeps standing as Misto crawls forward to utter “Old Deuteronomy?”, leaning down only to touch Jake’s shoulder before sending him off to get the Jellicle leader.

Old D didn’t manage to hide Tug’s hip thrust from Jemi today (before ‘Pekes’), and the young lady was vastly pleased with herself for having been able to peek, for she turned around to Deut and stuck out her tongue at him with a grin.

As the first barking round was going on, Carby tipped Billy on the nose with his finger *argh*, making Joe grin wildly. Billy nuzzled MJ then before they ran off to get into their Pollicle costumes.

During the ‘Ball’ I saw Jake smacking Tanto (!) on her behind as he ran forward to his place in front after Tug’s “…you’d say we had nothing…” She was grinning after him of course - from ear to ear.

As the toms prepared to join the queens for the tom-queen dance sequence - Jake went along, mimicking them perfectly, he walked away just a little before they move to stand behind their respective partners - Sachmet says he was having a little dispute with Cori as to who would get to dance with Tanto. Would explain the glances they always level at each other ;D

Totally cool grin on Clinton’s face as he danced with Emma during that part. He sure was enjoying himself *grins* (not that he ever looks as if he were bored…) John shouted a few “Come ons!” (and a few other things I didn’t quite catch) as he was dancing ;D. Glad he’s staying, he’s so immersed in the role you can’t help but enjoy watching him each and every time. *grins*

Misto and Etcy adopted their graceful mirrored poses for the mating dance again, she then rubbed her head on his hip, then went up into a handstand and Misto sat behind her, rubbing his head against her stomach. During the bum rubbing at the partner dance sequence, Jake bumped Sarah-Jane away with his behind and they continued to openly grin at each other.

Jye (Carby) was cute, in perfect timing with the rest of the group while dancing each time I looked (and since I noted he was out of tune before, I looked pretty often and closely ;D) - I do love his enthusiasm and the perpetual cheeky grin.

Sachmet says that both mystical twins glared at a woman in front of us who was writing SMS (just before MOH). Tanto went on after a moment, but Cori kept glaring at the woman, until she noticed him and laughed.

Lindsey is a really cute, sweet Jemi. I liked her interpretation during ‘Naming’ too, just as much as Sarah-Jane’s (a darling Etcy who was in front of us for a while as well ;D). Bright and clear is what their voices are. Very nice.

Tanto and Cori lay on the car boot during ‘Gus’ and I observed something really fascinating. It seemed as if Oliver wanted to dry off his face, he had lifted his hand already, then thought better of it, nudged Helen and mumbled something. Moments later they were - in synch - touching their armwarmers against their foreheads… I thought it was absolutely amazing. Sachmet said Gus’ scream “to bring on the ghost” reminded her of Etcy’s scream for Tugger btw. *grins*

The pirate crew are laughing evilly after “…Siamese that mauled his missing ear”, but they stop abruptly at Growl’s look; Misto proceeds to mimic an innocent whistle, his eyes roaming away from his captain, his fingers drumming against his knee. Jake’s “sentimental” was a notch deeper than anyone else’s I noted ;D.

During ‘Skimble’ Jake was sitting on the pipe, playing rattle, the drums, tapping onto imaginary bongos/congas (the smaller drums of the two) and he also used his tail as a mic to sing along as he grinned madly, wriggling his chest. *whoa, he’s good*

When Maccy (Mr. Smirk aka Clinton Brown) catnapped Demi, Munk turned around in time to see her on the ginger one’s shoulder, he reached out, touching her arms with a look of frightened despair (I admit I pay very close attention to this particular tabby, sue me *winks*).

Mac seems to let Demi down not only because she struggles, but because Munk lounges himself at him and scratches him clean across the back. Our fave fiend turns around, stunning the tabby knight with his hand in front of his face to win a bit of time.

The ensuing catfight was beyond energetic, though I’m not as worried they’ll break something as they both Kenny and Clinton drop to the ground so suavely. There’s nothing like seeing them pitched against each other. Wow. They manage to totally stun me every time.

Clinton really is a harsh fighter, it seems he clawed too harshly at Kenny’s unitard, there were three small holes at the small of the tabby’s back as he sat in front of me looking up at Tugger singing the first ‘Misto’ refrain. *No, I was NOT staring at him, I just happened to see it*

Those spotlight moments just before ‘Misto’ *grins*. I did note again that Kenny really has the “gone with the wind” slide (as I’ve taken to calling it ;D) down perfectly. So smooth! He makes sure that his lady doesn’t bump into the ground by steadying her descent with his arm. *charming*

As they were lying there, Emma suddenly moved and ended up with her back to his chest on top of him, raising her leg (anyone imitating Misto and Etcy? ;D). My attention was just then called away cause John started singing ‘Mr. Misto’…

As Misto was magically calling Old D back, Vic mimicked Tug’s stupid grin (playing pretty assistant, anyone? ;D) each time Misto passed his hands across the red blankie and she was as put out as John when Deut doesn’t appear the first two times, even though she didn’t lose her patience quite as much as Tug does ;D.

Misto blew onto his fingers afterwards, grinning, then he rubbed them against his chest fluffies. Sachmet said Jake had multi-coloured glitter on his chest fluffies today and she also thinks that it’s part of his costume. I thought it was silver and that he put it on for the Misto nr. only *shrugs*. I saw (enthusiastic as always ;D) John bump his hips against El’s; she grinned and hid her face behind her hands.

Just after the ‘Misto nr’ I caught sight of the cutest thing - Vicky was sitting on the floor, looking dreamy as she stroked Billy’s head which lay against her chest. *adorable*

‘Heaviside’ - as Munk took Griz’s hands to welcome her back, he sniffed at her slightly as if memorizing her scent, then bowed with a warm smile before leading her on to Old D. *melts* When everyone takes on that prayer position holding their arms out wide to the side - Jake had his hands flat outwards, standing tall, really adopting that stance to perfection, as if in actual worship. ;D

For ‘Addressing’ Misto only mimics a bow at “oh cat”, taking a step forward, smiling as he nods his head in acknowledgement (of the audience?), at “address a cat” he grins, one hand on his hip, the other making a little twirling motion as he nods lightly again.

While standing in front of us during the ‘Credits’, Demi made hip swings, then grinned at Munk and whacked her tail against his hip before running off, looking back to make sure he was following ;D.

As Misto danced with Griz, Tug used his tail as a mic again, then swatted Jake’s behind with it - it kinda looked as if he were dusting him off and polishing the crystals *grins*.

Today Sachmet and I were discussing the question of whether or not Etcy, El, Vic, Carby and Victor have microphones - though they all have lines they might deliver them in a loud voice and be heard, same goes for Etcy’s scream. We’ll keep you posted as we find out more ;D.

Btw, while we’re at the technical stuff. Cori had his mic’s cable running OVER his wig, wrapped around his cat ear. And we’re quite sure now that Jake has no mic for ‘Misto’ - but since he was that close to our seats we heard his beautiful, deep singing during ‘Addressing’ *melts into nothingness*

October 6, 2001 (matinee)

We went with Jenny that day, Sachmet sat upstairs in the Dress Circle left hand side and I sat with Jenny on the Moving Platform row B, seats 34, 35

Sachmet told me in the intermission (I took note of it in the evening show) that Etcy is actually singing her line in ‘Jellicle Songs’ into Tug’s micro. Looks kinda funny, as if she were nuzzling his forehead in a way ;D. Vicky and Carby don’t seem to have microphones either or only very small ones. And Tanto had her micro’s wire running across her wig, wrapped around her ear.

We had Julie Carlton as Vicky btw who is just adorable, kittenish, sweet and very pretty. She’s always smiling and you can’t help but love her. She was playing with Jemi a great deal - so cute! ;D

Sachmet told me that Alonzo stood in front of her during ‘Naming’, giving his attention to the people sitting on either side of her, dead serious, until he turned to her at the end and smiled. *ain’t that sweet?*

I heard Jake whooping and/or calling out something twice during ‘Gumbie’, he seemed to be enjoying himself immensely as usual ;D. When Tug came out, Jenny let herself fall to the ground in the middle of the stage and Munk dropped her coat onto her unceremoniously, totally covering her (well, Emma Woods isn’t exactly the tallest ;D). She got up then, taking the coat and trudging offstage with the cutest expression.

Emma Woods was on as Jenny again, a treat to see her onstage ;D - I still think her voice is a bit too quiet and soft though it has the right pitch for the role and she definitely has fabulous movements and mimic. When Carby tried to prick her with his fork, she sent him off with a chillingly icy look *wow* - Munk came up then, to make sure Carb kept in line, then he saluted to Jenny. ;D

Emma also had the cutest (high pitched and quite loud) laugh during ‘Bustopher’ just before she sang “so much in this way”.

During ‘RTT’, Misto gracefully plopped down onto the mattress and began massaging Cassie’s feet after she’d joined him, grinning sweetly *argh*

I esp. noticed this during ‘Bustopher’ - Jason has a habit of wrapping himself about Clinton very catlike, they certainly are the best of friends, totally adorable. One really has to watch them sitting together in the background and as they plot to have Carby scratch Griz. ;D Btw - as Victor took the hat offstage in the Mac scare, he had that huge thing over his head and upper body and you could just see his thighs shaking as he swayed about. *cute*

Since I forgot to mention that in my September reports I’ll just smuggle in here ;D. Sachmet told me that once during ‘Pekes’ Misto was pointing to himself as Old D mentioned cats and at Vicky when he talked of dogs *charming* ;D. Today I saw Jake make a funnel with his hands while he was barking and he also shoved Cori once.

During this song, RT scared Jenny as she came out in her Peke costume and Emma W. laughed heartily before sending Teazer off to Munku. In fact, she was totally thrilled with Rumple until she got a tap on the forehead from her *grins*. Skimble leant forward in concentration as he barked at Tanto and Cori. The wire for his microphone is orange btw, nice touch.

Tug held his belt with the left hand (which everyone else has behind their backs) for the beginning of the ‘Ball’ when “Jellicle Cats come out tonight…” is sung for the second time.

Misto couldn’t help himself and disturbed Cori as he was dancing with the other toms - Jake thought it was very funny and Oliver tried to bite back a grin ;D.

Adme and Dem did a lift that was totally spectacular at the end of the tom-queen dance segment - Clinton held Helen up high as she stretched out horizontally, her arms out. *wow*

Kerry Washington was on as Griz. I’ve seen her before and my opinion of her was in no way altered. Though I prefer Chrissie’s voice for the part, Kerry has the gestures down so perfectly - she conveys emotions with all means at her disposal - with looks, sighs and also with a VERY loud stamping of her foot to really get Old D’s attention.

Her makeup at the matinee was imo a bit too dark, that is to say that she had a vast amount of black around her eyes, the tears running down the whole length of her cheek. To me it seemed like a clown’s eye makeup dirtied up. *shrugs* Kerry changed it for the evening performance when it suited her much better though.

What I do so like about Kerry’s Grizabella is that she is obviously in total despair, while Chrissie makes the character seem haughty. One thing that I prefer about Ms Hammond (apart from her voice) is that she ends ‘Memory’ on a deep note. I just don’t like “begUN” ending high-pitched. It might be that it seems to me as if it were destroying the haunting atmosphere.

Tugger’s reaction to Kerry as Griz was quite…interesting ;D. As she came out, he started waving his hand in front of his face, pursing his lips and then holding his nose as if she were smelling badly. *grins*

As they came on stage for ‘MOH’, MJ pulled RT off the ramp and she had to fight her way up while he still had her tail in his mouth and tugged. *so cute* Btw much as I love Jerrie, those shoulder fluffies make him look like an over-sized mop - poor guy ;D.

Jake was being a very bad role model for all the little kids in the audience as he sat on his pipe during ‘Gus’, languidly enjoying a smoke *evil grin* In the meantime, Mungo was moving Bomba’s feet up and down as she lay on the mattress but she didn’t seem to notice it. And Victor lay with his head in Jemi’s lap, scratching at her legwarmers while she lightly stroked his head and chest in time to the music *argh*

What I observed today is that Jye (Carby) is the Siamese who turns the pipe for Growl to jump off of and he leaves the stage just after putting it back where it belongs.

As the train broke apart in ‘Skimble’ Lindsey dropped to the ground, tickling Jake’s stomach. She then proceeded to lie there and easily kick her leg up almost knocking herself out (she did touch her nose ;D). She’s a totally adorable Jemi, with a sweet voice - she does seem a bit quiet when singing though.

Cori could be a henchrat or a Maccy look-alike - I don’t think I’ll ever be completely sure though ;D. Sachmet told me that a fake Mac was actually perched on top of the railing in the Dress Circle, only holding on to a thin rope *whoa*

I gotta hand it to Julie Barnes that she’s warming up, less icy than she used to be and a tad more flirtatious which I like immensely. She really is grand as Bomba, her voice is good (esp. liked ‘Naming’ which she intones very nicely from what I’ve been able to hear) but still her interpretation doesn’t get to me that much. *shrugs*

Though Helen Baker is a wonderful Demeter (and don’t I just LOVE her makeup!) I like Barbara King’s voice better - what struck me today was that her costume looked remarkably like the one Emma Woods wears when she plays Dem and it did seem a little loose for Helen.

I really need to mention the Mac catfight again *I know, I know ;D*. Just before Dem unmasks Maccy, Munku went down on his knees beside Bomba, asking her what was wrong. Tanto came and touched his arm and he looked at her in incomprehension until he caught sight of the ginger cat ;D. And Helen did kick at Mac as he let her down.

Kenny is thrown halfway across the stage by Clinton (and I still can’t fathom how he manages to land that smoothly). Today I esp. noticed his facial expression which are uncommonly good - as is his limping and his not being able to get up…it is all there but doesn’t seem forced or unnaturally exaggerated. The look I like best is the one he wears just before Mac jumps onto his back - it’s a calming “Everything’s going to be fine”… *melts*

There is something that I’ve noticed about Kenny’s singing btw *gasps ;D* It’s only two things - he doesn’t seem to get up high enough for “sits in the SUN” and not deep enough down for “Rumpus CAT” with his voice. Could just be me.

It might have come out already in my previous reports *ahem* that I kinda like the ‘Misto nr’. Since my eyes were glued to the dancer centre stage I didn’t catch much of what else was going on, and my fave black cat was awesome and brilliant as always.

Sachmet said that Misto might have had his hands held Egyptian style again during his conjuring turns as he did once before when we saw him. I honestly can’t remember anymore.

After Misto had brought back Old D and everyone was jumping about, Jake ran towards Tug to walk to the front of the stage in style for the last refrain - but before he did that he grinned and made those head movements Barbara Eden did in “I Dream of Jeannie” (that TV Series from the 60s) - looked way cool (of course it did ;D).

I’m pretty sure that Jake was wearing the shoes he has for the ‘Misto nr’ the whole time today. There were no laces on them and they were a different shade of black (darker and a little glossier) and therefore stood out against the costume which his shoes normally never do.

Talking about appearances, Jake’s makeup (esp. around the eyes and the brows) was a little different than yesterday. I’ve observed that he never wears the same “face” twice, altering minute details just about daily. It’s a very original idea of his and I gotta say I like it immensely.

Misto, being the gentleman he is, took Jenny’s arm and linked it with his to take her to her place for ‘Heaviside’, excusing himself to Cassie for not leading her.

Tug slighted Griz at the ‘Credits’ and hopped off with Misto as usual, but as John stood at the edge of the stage, clapping wildly, Kerry brushed past him onto the ramp and he ended up holding her hand as they walked off *cute*

October 6, 2001 (evening)

MOVING PLATFORM, row A, seats 32,33

The cast seemed to be in extremely high spirits tonight, which was grand since it took my mind off of the fact that it was the last time I’d see this particular cast and also the last time I’d be seeing my fave Misto *sniffling*

That is why I’ll be starting this report with the most beautiful thing in the whole show (no, I’m not exaggerating) - Misto’s ‘Naming’. Nothing gets to me more than an actor/actress who is capable of really making poetry/words come alive. And with a voice like Jake’s… *dreamy stare*

I have begun to detail this before and will add a few titbits now that I particularly noted today. Like the graceful hand flourish and straightening up on “holiday games”. And the “maaaaad as a hatter”, with Jake’s voice dropping a notch deeper on “mad”.

For “cherish his pride” we were treated to a long, elegant stretch as he stood tall in front of us and then, what I enjoyed immensely, came the intonation of Coricopat (detailing every syllable) and Jellylorum. Wow, someone sure likes this particular Jelly a lot ;D. I’ve never heard her name pronounced with more joy and with such a sweet smile.

I was, by then, already reduced to the melt down that comes from a beautiful voice and poetry being combined but I was yet able to appreciate the fact that Jake made sure to emphasize the “I” in “the meaning I tell you” - just so that there was no mistake as to who was talking. ;D

I gotta admit I started giggling (and I’m NOT prone to giggling like that usually ;D) when I heard the “rrrrapt contemplation” - and that rolling “R” was intoned so gently and warmly - followed by another voice drop for the “deeeeep” and the “inscrrrrrutable” (at which I received an odd sideward glance and a half-smile from Jake, probably cause I was giggling again *hides*).

As he slunk off towards the mattress to leave the stage for Vicky, he fixed both Sachmet and me for a moment as he whispered “name”…those eyes are beyond beautiful and that voice…

My legs being thus effectively reduced to jelly, I was happy to concentrate on Vicky’s solo dance, beautiful as always, to regain some measure of composure. *yes, I do get carried away*

In ‘Gumbie’, Jake was up to mischief again (which I missed cause I was concentrating on Kenny singing) - he had slid down the ramp beside us and after a while the woman sitting in the row behind started to laugh madly - Sachmet looked back then and she told me Jake was grinning widely.

Since Jenny chose that moment to flop forward, Misto had to crawl up the ramp again to help her up - and then he was engaged in another catfight with Al. When Munk came to break them up, Jake pointed out innocent Gus as the culprit *grins* Peter (Bishop) had been prowling the stage before btw, smiling brightly at us as he passed. And he also waved at Jake as the latter went off stage before the tap dance.

And another thing from September that I forgot (little scraps of paper are not conducive to finding one’s notes… ;D): During ‘Gumbie’, as Jenny’s tail was being scratched by Munk, Misto lay on his side, flailing about with his arms and legs as if he were being tickled, his expression one of wide-eyed surprise. *adorable*

Now, ‘RTT’ was interesting. It seemed as if John had decided to draw attention to his ‘manliness’ by putting an orange cross (looked just the colour of his makeup) there - guess he fancies the German Tug cossie with white strategically placed on each ‘point of interest’… ;D

Misto was, once again, dancing along with the kitten queens (sitting on the mattress), though he did also do a good number of hip swings *whoa* And since Rebecca Louis was on as Etcy I got to hear my fave scream - no one does it like her, she’s even better than Sarah-Jane in this ;D.

‘Bustopher’ deserves a special mention here - I must admit that though I remembered Peter as a wonderful Gus, I couldn’t think back on having enjoyed his Bus as much as I did today. I think he’s changed his interpretation (both for this and for Growl). And I loved it.

The little show in the show started with Peter’s coming out near the ramp and being caught in the spotlight. He grinned and said “Ah, sunlight!” *laughs* He wore a different tail/overcoat than Gareth - and he totally convinced the audience of being THE brummel of cats ;D.

He was mumbling something all the time of which I didn’t catch half, but it was so cute to see him and as he came onstage he halted in front of us, smiling down and bopping his head politely. So charming! I never cared too much for Bustopher, now I know I adore him *grins*

I thought he was esp. adorable as he “knighted” Skimble who was kneeling in front of him with his spoon. Munku was allowed to touch the hallowed cutlery too of course and Misto generously made sure Carby got patted on the hand with the handle before they sang “Bustopher Jones in white spats”.

Just after that we had Peter tap dancing in the air and falling back - as he was moved back onto his feet he mumbled something that I couldn’t quite make out but it did sound suspiciously unfriendly ;D. As he said his “or I am a bounder”, Bus whispered it confidentially to the audience with a wry grin.

Being very jovial and funny, I loved his shouting “Fore!” after he’d hit his imaginary golf ball off the tee with his spoon…someone thinking he’s a long-hitter there? *winks*

Misto was quite naughty - after Old D had turned up (Kenny and John having given another mesmerizing rendering of the song) - he was crawling past Bomb to his place for the last refrain; he stopped, made sure she wasn’t looking and pulled quickly at the snap fastener that held her legwarmer, pulling the warmer down with lightning speed before moving past, looking totally innocent.

Bomba noticed her warmer was down a moment later, glanced at Misto who was just then pointing to himself at the mention of “Jellicle leader” and waved him off with an exasperated gesture. She only tugged her warmer up when she stood up before ‘Pekes’ and had it attached with the snap fastener next time she came on stage ;D.

Jake couldn’t stop himself from nudging Oliver during the song - those two are such goofballs, really ;D. And Kenny was adorable as he faced Rumpus whose hair was standing on end after “fiercer” - he laid his hand on Sebastian’s shoulder and, with a head shake and a long-suffering sigh intoned “hairier”. *laughs*

I think Rumpus hit Misto’s hat in passing as he ran towards the tire for his “leg kicking competition” with Munku, though I can’t be sure. The hat looked like it weren’t properly on Jake’s head as it was.

After ‘Pekes’, Misto flung his shoes offstage, however, one of them landed on the car boot and he had to clamber up there to throw it off and was in a scramble to get to his position for the “All hail…” He was grinning throughout, and he didn’t forget to run his hands across his ‘ears’ to make sure they were all in place *grins*

After the Mac scare, Misto shook behind Old D again, then slinked off and jumped onto the mattress, hiding his head behind his arms, his rear high in the air. During the ‘Ball’, he was seen dancing beside Cori again as the toms moved forward to join the queens’ dance led by Bomba. And before he did his pirouettes, he leant against Deut, hand on hip and let the old guy tell him what he was supposed to do ;D.

In the second half of the ‘Ball’ my eyes were inevitably drawn to the pipe, where Skimble and Jenny were having a good time mimicking the dancers below them. They ended up in a tangle of limbs after attempting a polka though, grinning widely as Ross hugged Emma from behind, bending forward. *So cute!* That’s the way I’ll forever see those two orange tabbies now ;D.

I just have to mention that - during ‘Intermission’, Old D was playing Santa Claus. Sitting on his tire, he pulled the kids coming up to him into his lap and grinned from ear to ear as he signed their programmes. *Adorable*

Just before ‘MOH’, Jerrie and Teazer were fooling around again, Rumple climbing onto Mungo’s back. He didn’t exactly like that, so he started spinning in circles madly, trying to shake her off, which earned him a few little swipes and a fully fledged pout ;D.

A few things happened in the background during ‘Gus’ again - like Etcy washing Tug’s mane (Rebecca really is cute ;D) and Misto singing happily into his tail on the pipe and waving furtively at Cassie. Jerrie hid under the leopard rug for the entire song and Bomba and Billy tapped him on the head repeatedly.

I also noted John “undressing himself” - that is, he opened the jacket with his mane and his belt so that when he went offstage to change into his pirate costume he had to hold his costume together *grins*.

I once noticed Jake’s tail-belt being tied B-way style during Skimble btw - Sachmet told me he wore it this way throughout Act II (that is, as long as he was wearing his Quaxo costume).

Peter’s ‘Gus’ comes close to John Mill’s version - he’s not as senile as Gareth, rather the old, dignified actor who may have lost his sparkle but not his poise. What I think is esp. cute is that he doesn’t give a scream to “bring on the ghost” but a hoarse “Meow”.

And ‘Growl’ - oh what a pirate! He’s a real bad boy that one; He was so sweet with his “Ohoh” when his crew mentioned the “Siamese that mauled his missing ear”. Sachmet said that Jake closed Skimble’s belt, actually she said he might have opened it himself beforehand ;D. I just noticed that Jason’s belt was hanging down and flapping about his hips.

As Griddle was being helped down and Growl was preening himself he tried his tail out - if it would stand upright that is - and was in total shock when it toppled over *laughs*.

Griddle passed out at the sight of Growl as usual and Tug had to fan her with the flopping “shawl” that hangs from his collar. For Growl’s “aventiura” (sp?), Grid ran her hands up across her chest, totally enthralled. Looks way cool ;D, though Rebecca doesn’t do it every day.

Today, Munku was waving his arms about as if he were directing the others to put the mattress into a parking spot *giggles*, he had also hissed quite audibly at Misto and Skimble when they’d laughed at his being beaten up by Growl.

Jake nudged Ross to show him the “Title” he was making with his hands, and as always, whispered confidentially behind his hand about the “rumour (that) ran along the shore”. At the mention of the “tender moon”, Misto couldn’t help but point at the spotlights above ;D *sighs*

It seemed to me that the crew were less put out with Peter’s Growl as he sang “mi amore” - I should perhaps mention that the “Terror of the Thames” had the cool touch of his trousers hanging at his knees (anyone wanting to be a teenager again?! *winks*), baggy indeed. ;D

Growl sat down on the mattress but got up when Griddle said “No” to joining him, straightening the blanket a little self-consciously. She said “No” again and this time he was grumbling outright, giving a shrill whistle and hitting the makeshift bed, which made the lady quickly jump onto it with a look of disdain. *winks*

I loved the aria of course, Peter’s voice is just lovely! His Growl is more the seducer, not so much the rough guy - what was really cute was how he lay with his back on the mattress, trying to catch Grid’s tail and after twice failing he wriggled with his shoulders and hips. Gareth usually props himself up against the ‘bed’ on his side, legs crossed and straight.

Peter has this wonderful intonation of “plank” that I love so much ;D. It’s so totally surprised and shocked. I observed that neither he nor Oliver were screaming during their swordfight.

Dear Jerrie was, once again, totally enthralled by the queens dancing ‘Macavity’, his eyes huge as he rolled his head. But he did get a shock - as Tanto moved past him to get on stage to join the others, she hissed at him and he jumped back in fear ;D. And Sachmet said Al came towards her after the catfight and wouldn’t budge until she smiled…

Misto was his usual extraordinarily stunning self. *yes, I’ve run out of adjectives to describe him ;D* Sachmet was right yesterday, the chest fluffies glitter - some sort of sparkly wool perhaps. And, as probably everyone know but I only noticed today *winks*, Quaxo’s bow tie is painted onto the unitard.

John, ecstatic to the point of needing the kittens to restrain him *laughs*, was shouting his “Come on, baby!” again ;D. And I was on the verge of crying when Jake kissed out his spotlight. That gesture is just sooooooooooooo lovely. *sighs*

But I wasn’t the only one near tears - Sachmet said she noticed Misto looking like he was going to break out into sobs when Griz was finally accepted by the tribe.

He had recovered by the time he turned around to face the audience for ‘Addressing’ though ;D. Jake was wriggling his nose every time he turned into our direction and he was grinning as was Ross (did I mention I love that wide, open smile of his? ;D).

As the cast ran around the aisles before the ‘Curtain Call’, Sachmet (who got a good laugh out of this of course ;D) failed to tell me that Rebecca Lock was sitting right behind me on the ramp. I turned round and came nose to nose with her. Gave me a bit of a start ;D. She sniffed at me and then grinned before going back onstage. *grins*

We then were treated to Jake doing an absolutely stunning cartwheel as he came on to get his round of applause. Talk about perfection! *wow*

As the Misto song was being played again, Clinton stood stage left, his back to the audience as he practiced hip swings to rival Tugger *whoa* and El was hopping about and hip swinging as well - she sure can run wild ;D.

And then it was back to Misto dancing with Griz until Tug (who’d been singing into his tail again ;D) came up, slighted the lady and danced his friend off stage.

Now I’m going to be on serious Misto withdrawal… *grabs hanky and sniffles*