2019 is absolutely the year of great musicals in Singapore. World-famous shows that had already made its run this year include: Matilda, Phantom of the Opera, and Aladdin. And in December, CATS will make its way here!
You may already know a thing or two about this popular production that will be put up at Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands, such as the popular songs featured, but here are a few fun facts that we bet even seasoned theatre aficionados may not know.
Read on and see how many you’re aware of!
Fun facts about CATS
Based on a 1939 poetry collection by T. S. Eliot and music composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber (also the composer for Phantom of the Opera), CATS is one of the longest-running Broadway shows.
The production features some of the best compositions by Webber, including Memories, a timeless classic that stirs emotions.
Besides the music, the dances (including ballet), the costumes and set, the elaborately painted faces, and the interaction with the cast (it’s a one-of-a-kind musical where characters break the fourth wall throughout the show) make this a production that is well-loved through the ages.
Here are five fun facts about CATS that you probably didn’t know!
1. How many times was the word “Jellicle” mentioned in the entire show?
138 times! The opening song in CATS, Jellicle Song for Jellicle Cats alone already has 69 mentions of the word “Jellicle”!
2. What do you think is the average time for a CATS actor to apply makeup?
60 minutes! We aren’t surprised at all considering the elaborate looks on each of the actor in the show! And wait till you know how much maintenance the costumes need…
3. How many costumes does the production use?
CATS uses 226 costumes and has 180 in reserve! The large number of costumes also mean more washing, of course. Here’s an interesting titbit: 10 litres of washing detergent is used for the costumes! Can you imagine?
The production also tours with 116 wigs to complete the incredible look for the characters. And speaking of wigs, guess what – the average time to knot a cat’s wig is 35 hours!
Bet you want to take a tour of their changing area now!
4. What do you think is required to keep the microphones running?
256 rechargeable batteries are prepared for the microphones and 40 balloons are used to keep them dry. And as if this doesn’t sound like a technical feat, the production also features 285 lighting cues.
Remember to applaud loudly for the light and sound crew during curtain call!
5. How many cities did CATS tour this year?
The production cast and crew have kept themselves very busy in 2019. They have toured 20 cities so far this year and are currently in Manila, before they come to Singapore on 17 December.
And it’s hard work being a performer: for instance, Mr Mistoffelees had to perform 22 conjuring turns during his solo. No wonder the hardworking actors use up to 50kg of ice for their ice baths at the end of each hard week!
CATS will be showing from 17 December 2019 to 15 January 2020 at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands.
If you’re going to catch this phenomenal production, here’s a great tip to make your experience extra special!
Here’s what savvy audiences at the Sands Theatre would usually do: get the Show & Dine Package (which starts from SGD89) that bundles your show tickets with a dining experience at up to 20% off.
These dining experiences are pre-arranged to ensure that you can get to your show on time.
The restaurant will prioritise your order with the kitchen, making sure you’ll dine comfortably without any worry about being late for your show.
This package also gives you access to exclusive set menus at the award-winning signature restaurants at Marina Bay Sands.
The restaurants that you can package your CATS tickets with include Adrift by David Myers, CUT by Wolfgang Puck, db Bistro & Oyster Bar, Club55, Yardbird Southern Table and Bar, and KOMA.
As if the special dining experience isn’t enough, you can even beat the queue and order intermission drinks and snacks from your seat as a Show & Dine Package holder! An usher will take your order and deliver your drinks and snacks to your seat!
Package holders also receive complimentary parking (from Monday to Thursday) – just how sweet is that! Simply present your show ticket at the theatre box office to redeem.
For the ultimate VIP experience, reserve the Show & Dine package here.
Did you know: Show & Dine Package is available for all productions that run at Sands Theatre.
Besides the upcoming CATS the Musical, remember to check out The Doors Reimagined, an orchestral concert which features songs from iconic American rock band The Doors. This incredible production will be shown on 7 and 8 February 2020. See more information here.
Another show to anticipate is Gloria and Emilio Estefan’s smash-hit musical, On Your Feet!,directed by two-time Tony Award winner Jerry Mitchell (Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde) that features some of the most iconic pop songs such as Rhythm Is Gonna Get You, Conga, Get On Your Feet, Don’t Want To Lose You Now, and 1-2-3. The production will start running from 5 to 13 June 2020. See more information here.
This article is brought to you by Marina Bay Sands.
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