Youth Theatre Northwest (YTN) concludes its Summerstock Season with “Cats,” a legendary musical by award winning composer Andrew Lloyd Webber.
“Cats,” which opens at 8 p.m. Friday, is part of YTN’s 33rd season of “theatre by kids, for kids.”
Based on T.S. Eliot’s “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats,” this imaginative show features energetic songs and rambunctious dance, including one of the most treasured ballads in musical theater history — “Memory.” Winner of seven Tony Awards including “Best Musical,” this beloved show is still Broadway’s most unforgettable event.
YTN’s unique production refreshes this treasured storyline by incorporating the visual energy of Japanese anime. Directed by YTN Artistic Director Mimi Katano, “Cats” performs Aug. 12–27 in the outdoor courtyard of Emmanuel Episcopal Church, located at 4400 86th Ave. SE on Mercer Island.
Shows are at 7 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday evenings and 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.
YTN transforms the outdoor courtyard of Emmanuel Church into a gritty Tokyo side street. Under a canopy of twinkle lights and stars, the Jellicle Cats come out to play on one special night of the year – the night of the Jellicle Ball.
One by one, they tell their stories for the amusement of Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader. For he must choose one of the Cats to ascend to the Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a whole new Jellicle life.
The cast of “Cats” features some of Youth Theatre’s brightest and youngest talent. The cast of 26 actors (ages 7-17) are from Mercer Island, Seattle, Bellevue, Redmond, Issaquah and Newcastle.
Ticket prices are $13-$17, and may be purchased at the performance or in advance at www.YouthTheatre.org. The performance on Friday, Aug. 26, is a dinner theatre event. Meal service will begin at 7 p.m.
Tickets for this show are $35 for general admission and $30 for youth. Peruse the menu options and reserve tickets at YouthTheatre.org.
“Cats” is best for ages 4 and up.
YTN commences its School Season with the “Treasure Island,” performing Nov. 4-20. For a full season line-up, visit www.YouthTheatre.org.
