CAT'S the show that revolutionized musical theatre, is celebrating its 25th anniversary at TPAC’s Andrew Jackson Hall for only five performances, January 19-21. 

“CATS is a show that audiences continue to embrace year after year, and 25 years later we’re still proud to offer the experience – this time including a new generation of CATS fans,” said Kathleen O’Brien, TPAC’s president and chief executive officer. “This iconic classic offers a look into the lives of everyday animals, as talented actors transform themselves into cats through movement and makeup. And the music is such an essential element, offering a unique avenue for T.S. Eliot’s poetry to come to life through the voices of these lovable, relatable characters. CATS is a wonderful way for families to experience the magic of Broadway together.”

On May 11, 1981, CATS opened at the New London Theatre in the West End, becoming the first mega musical and the longest running musical in the history of British theater. In 1982, CATS opened at the Winter Garden Theatre in New York City, becoming the longest running musical in Broadway history in 1997. CATS ended its 18-year Broadway run on Sept. 10, 2000.

In October of 1991, CATS became the longest continuously touring show in American theatre history. Five continents, 26 countries, over eight-and-a-half million audience members and 25 years later, CATS is still America’s most loved family musical. Celebrating not only 25 years but the birth of the musical spectacular, CATS is still revolutionary and awe inspiring.

Based on T.S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats, and with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, CATS won seven Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical, Best Lighting and Best Costumes.

Kids’ Night on Broadway will be celebrated at the Friday, Jan. 19, performance of CATS, with lobby activities for children beginning at 6:30 p.m.

The Nashville engagement of CATS is presented by arrangement with the Tennessee Performing Arts Center and is a part of HCA/TriStar Broadway Across America Nashville.

The Tennessee Performing Arts Center’s official sponsors include HCA/TriStar, American Airlines, Coca-Cola and The Hermitage Hotel.  Show media sponsors for CATS are WJXA Mix 92.9, WSMV Channel 4 News and The Tennessean.