“Cats” better than ever in new Chanhassen production

If you need a lift to get you through the snow drifts this winter, then you should go see the current production of “Cats” at The Chanhassen Dinner Theatre. If you’ve never been there, you’ll be amazed at the singing and dancing. The production values and level of performance equal anything on Broadway, and this “Cats” is far better than the touring company production that came through here a couple of years ago.

If you’ve been there before, then you know that when you’ve finished your dinner and the house lights dim, you’re going to be in the hands of old pros who will take you on a fantastical journey. Many of the professional actors, singers and dancers have been at Chanhassen for from twenty to almost thirty years. They know their way around. They’re very good at what they do, and they obviously enjoy it.

It’s always fun and a little startling to see familiar faces in unfamiliar places. The last time I saw David Anthony Brinkley he was an impeccable and thoroughly delightful Henry Higgins in “My Fair Lady.” Now, he is Gus, the theatre cat, recounting his most famous roles and thrilling performances with just a touch of palsy. When first you see him, there’s an immediate thrill of recognition, but, soon enough, you lose yourself in his new transformation.

Michelle Barber is always a thrill to watch on stage, and, as Grizabella the Glamour Cat, she gets to play her first death scene.

Keith Rice normally commands the stage at Chanhassen as a romantic hero. As Munkustrap, the Stage Manager, he takes control by the sheer force of his marvelous voice and confident acting.

E. Mani Cadet is new to Chanhassen and an immediate hit as Old Deuteronomy, the leader of the Jellicle cats and the one who has to pick Grizabella as the cat who will leave and be reborn. His warm bass voice and his gentle acting should make him an easy favorite for Chanhassen audiences.

But the real star of the evening is the ensemble of singers and dancers that never stop delighting and amazing.

The costumes by Sandy Nei Schulte are among her best. The actors crawl around on the auditorium floor, dance and leap on stage, and, yet, look fresh as kittens. This must have been one of her most serious challenges.

For ticket information call 952-934-1525. “Cats” will probably run through the Holidays.