A brand-new production of the global sensation, Cats, leaps into Hull New Theatre from 20 – 24 October 2026.
With music by Andrew Lloyd Webber, direction by Drew McOnie and based on Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T.S. Eliot, Cats heads to Hull as part of a major UK tour following a run at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre next summer.
Lloyd Webber Harrison Musicals’ recent productions include the acclaimed, hit production of Evita at The London Palladium, the Olivier-Award and Tony-Award winning revival of SUNSET BLVD., and Starlight Express.
Cats is one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history. The show originally premiered at the New London Theatre in 1981, where it played for 21 record-breaking years and almost 9,000 performances. The ground-breaking production was the winner of the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Musical. In 1983, the Broadway production became the recipient of seven Tony awards including Best Musical.
Drew McOnie said: “As for many dancers in the industry, Cats was a transformative experience for me and as a former cast member it’s thrilling to be directing and choreographing this brand-new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical. I can’t wait to share this much-loved piece with a new generation of audiences both in the stunning outdoor setting of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre and in theatres across the UK. With the production heading out on tour, we are delighted that it will reach audiences across the country after its London run, continuing our commitment to working with partners – in this case the brilliant Michael Harrison – to ensure our work is seen by as many as possible beyond our home in Regent’s Park.”
Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “I am very excited to see a totally new production of Cats back on the stage where it belongs. I can think of no-one better than Drew McOnie to bring a new vision to the world of the Jellicles.”
Michael Harrison said: “I am delighted that we will be presenting a brand-new production of Cats next summer. Drew is an outstanding artist and it has long felt destined that he would one day reinvent this great musical. Andrew and I are excited to be working with him and his team at Regent’s Park, and we look forward to the Jellicle Moon shining brightly on this thrilling new production in the splendour of the Open Air Theatre and major theatres across the country as part of the new UK tour.”
Tickets are now on sale. Visit the Hull City Hall Box Office, call 01482 300 306, or visit www.hulltheatres.co.uk.