Cats" Gets a Fierce New Look: Drag Ballroom Competition Hits Broadway This Spring

'Cats: The Jellicle Ball' Brings Feline Frenzy to Broadway This Spring The iconic musical "Cats" is getting a fresh makeover on the Great White Way. "Cats: The Jellicle Ball," a reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber's classic as a drag ballroom competition, will take over the Broadhurst Theatre with previews starting March 18, 2026, ahead of an April 7 opening night. The production, which has already wowed audiences at New York's Perelman Performing Arts Center, boasts a star-studded creative team. Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch direct, with choreography by Omari Wiles and Arturo Lyons. This latest iteration is the latest in a string of innovative reimaginings of Lloyd Webber's work, following the immersive "Phantom of the Opera" in New York City, Jamie Lloyd's stripped-down revival of "Sunset Blvd." starring Nicole Scherzinger, and Lloyd's concert-like take on "Evita," starring Rachel Zegler. "We're thrilled to bring this unique and captivating production to Broadway," said Zhailon Levingston. "The Jellicle Ball is a game-changer for the musical theater landscape." "Cats: The Jellicle Ball" combines the original's timeless music with the high-energy spectacle of a drag ballroom competition, featuring elaborate costumes, stunning choreography, and a talented cast. The show's creative team has drawn inspiration from the world of ball culture, incorporating elements of fashion, dance, and self-expression. The production's success is not limited to its artistic merits; it also speaks to the growing demand for diverse and inclusive storytelling in musical theater. "Cats: The Jellicle Ball" offers a fresh take on a beloved classic, one that will appeal to both longtime fans of the original and newcomers alike. As the curtain rises on this spring's hottest new production, audiences can expect an unforgettable experience that blends music, dance, and drama in a way that is both nostalgic and innovative. With its bold vision and commitment to artistic excellence, "Cats: The Jellicle Ball" is poised to become one of the season's must-see shows. The show will run at the Broadhurst Theatre through an open-ended engagement, with tickets available now for purchase. Don't miss your chance to experience this unforgettable production – get ready to purr-fectly enjoy "Cats: The Jellicle Ball" on Broadway this spring! *Reporting by Hollywoodreporter.*