Whenever a new musical or show comes to town we get a buzz of excitement. So when we found out that Stagewise School for the Performing Arts had been awarded the rights for the first stage school performance of the show Cats, we knew we had to go. Previously Cats had only been staged with national touring companies in various countries, but now the Really Useful Group have released the show for performances by amateur groups and stage schools.
Stagewise is a local stage school that teaches children from 5-18 years in everything from acting to singing and dancing. It's something that we have really be considering for Max as I remember youth theatre being some of the best memories I have growing up. They are based in Poole and run extra classes in Christchurch and Wimborne.
We honestly didn't know what to expect but as soon as we sat down in our seats we could feel the magic in the air. From the amazing staging to the striking lighting it felt like we were whisked away to the magical evening of the Jellicle ball. It felt so much more than a production in a local theatre and Max kept looking at me going "Wow, this is amazing".
The cast went above and beyond to portray each and every cat, and from the smallest kitten to the oldest of them all there was no doubt that they didn't miss a beat or step. I was blown away by the vocals from the older group and the standard of choreography was of the highest caliber. The whole cast's makeup and costumes were amazing, whoever was behind those faces deserves a round of applause!
The show flew by and it definitely took mine and Max's breath away. As soon as he walked out he begged me to let him see it again, asked of he could join the school and then proclaimed that it was the best show he had ever seen. And to be honest, I can't blame him, those cats really got the cream. The cast of the west end need to watch out, these Stagewise kittens are really making a move.
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