I attended the Blackpool Opera House last Tuesday morning for a cup of coffee and the launch of Cats. That’ll do for me. I was the run through presenter for the rehearsals so this is my behind the scenes introduction.
It should have been a problem for the show, following Mamma Mia in Blackpool, but oh no, Cats has already become the fastest selling musical in the Opera House’s history. After an amazing season at the London Palladium, Blackpool is the only UK venue where you can see Cats outside of London for the whole of 2015.
That’s the publicity, now to the real stuff. Jane McDonald stood on the Opera House stage with the musical director and just did it. And I mean really did it. What a range! It was magical – and this was just the rehearsal. That lady delivered one hundred percent.
Jane loves Blackpool and Blackpool loves her. She talked fondly of where she was when her album went to number one. Yes, she was in Blackpool. She loves the theatre and the people. Jane has a wicked sense of humour and is a proud northern lass; no diva demands, just a brew and a glass of water.
With producer David Ian, who also played Blackpool as a stage performer, they agreed that when you get the call from a certain Mr Lloyd-Webber, then you just know it’s going to be a great experience.
I am sure Jane McDonald will be spotted around town during the eight weeks she is starring in Cats and I, for one, will say hello – that’s just the sort of person she is! (She is also blessed with one hell of a voice.)
Cats runs from 9 July to 6 September. Children’s tickets are half price for midweek performances. You can buy tickets at the box office on Church Street, by phoning 01253 629666 or by visiting the website.
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