CATS at the Theatre Royal Windsor Review
CATS
Theatre Royal, Windsor
18-22 February 2014
Reviewed by Nealy Collins
I took my 10 year old niece to see the Youth Group Production of CATS at the Theatre Royal and we arrived in Windsor at 6pm. I was dreading parking but much to my surprise there were lots of spaces but I was aghast at the charges, £10 for 3 hours! I drove a few hundred meters and found a parking space by the river and found to my delight that parking was free after 6pm.
After a pre-theatre dinner, we made our way to the Theatre Royal. We were greeted warmly by the theatre staff who were most apologetic as they did not have a programme for us but said they would post one. The bar had a lovely ambience; we were served very quickly and courteously.
After a toilet break (no queues!) we made our way to our seats, Royal Stalls, J23 and 24.We were situated on the end of the row, very good seats with a perfect view.
The CATS musical was amazing and incredible. The costumes and set design were dazzling. The dance routines were complex and it was clear how much time and energy the actors have put into their rehearsals and performance. My niece was enthralled by all the “Baby Cats” (younger members of the cast). I think for both of us the best moment of the show was when Grizabella (the one time glamour cat, but now old and decrepit) sang Memories, what a performance, stunning and very moving. My niece looked at me and said “WOW”.
After the show my niece asked me what the storyline was, which I found hard to answer as I first saw the musical a long time ago! I have since looked up the synopsis and given it to her. I think if we had been given a programme it would have helped but having said this it didn’t detract us from enjoying the pure spectacle of the show. However it’s maybe worth noting that the show probably isn’t suitable for younger children.
Overall we had a great evening, the theatre had a lovely atmosphere and was very charming; it reminds me of a smaller version of the London Palladium. I would definitely have no hesitation to recommend this show to adults and children over 6 years old.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £11 to £33.
For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 01753 853 888.
