A scene from the classic musical Cats. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

The original musical Cats is poised to make a triumphant comeback to China after a five-year hiatus, announced the event organizer during a press conference held in Shanghai on July 15, setting the stage for a spectacular return of Andrew Lloyd Webber's timeless masterpiece.

The much-anticipated tour, spearheaded by the art performance management platform ACO Musical, is scheduled to commence on Oct 11, embarking on a captivating journey across nine cities in China. From the bustling metropolises of Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Hangzhou and Zhuhai to the cultural hubs of Xi'an, Suzhou, Zhengzhou and Tianjin, audiences will have the opportunity to witness the enchanting tale of "The Jellicle Cats" unfold through a total of 93 staged performances.

The tour's grand finale is slated to take place at the Shanghai New Bund 31's Performing Arts Center, where a series of 21 captivating shows will grace the stage from Jan 10 to 26, marking a fitting conclusion to the China leg of the Cats Tour.

Andrew Lloyd Webber's timeless creation, which first mesmerized audiences in 1981, has garnered global acclaim with translations in over 20 languages and performances staged in more than 30 countries. With a staggering 9,000 shows staged in London alone,

Cats has etched its place in the annals of musical theater history, captivating hearts and minds worldwide.

Having made its debut in China in 2003 and following a successful tour by ACO Musical in 2018-2019 that sparked immense demand for tickets, the anticipation for

Cats' return has been palpable. Despite a temporary setback in 2020, the musical's resurgence has been eagerly awaited by fans and enthusiasts alike.

The upcoming tour will commence at the Nanshan Cultural and Sports Center in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, and culminate at the Shanghai New Bund 31.

Gu Qing, the general manager of the New Bund 31, reiterated their commitment to delivering a rich theatrical experience, while Jiang Kuan, CEO of Jucheng Group, emphasized the company's dedication to nurturing China's musical theatre market through strategic investments and initiatives.

Source: Shanghai Observer, Jiefang Daily