Students of St. Clair brings the musical CATS to the Chrysler platform

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Drama students of the College of St. Clair hope to inspire audiences to support the Windsor-Essex County Folk Community as they bring a modern twist to the permanent CATS music stage.

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s original masterpiece, based on TS Eliot’s poetry collection Old Possum’s Book of Cats, explores themes of acceptance, love, forgiveness and the effects of one’s legacy.

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Director and choreographer Kristyn Wiklanski hopes the theme will touch the audience deeply, stir emotions and spark inquiry.

Wiklanski also said his goal is to honor the essence of CATS while incorporating it with modern flair.

“My vision for the choreography is to maintain the strength and form of the original while adding modern elements,” Wiklanski said.

Local humanitarian donation boxes will be placed at the entrance of the Chrysler Theater during the production, with proceeds going to adoption programs, humane education programs, cruelty screening and the pet food bank.

“We are proud to support the Windsor-Essex County People’s Association and their important work in our community,” Wiklanski said.

“Through this partnership, we aim to make a meaningful difference in the lives of animals in need and promote compassion and kindness for all living things.”

CAT, the fifth longest-running Broadway musical, is set in the mystical world inhabited by the Jellicle cat on the night that the cats gather to make the “Jellicle choice” – to decide which cat will ascend the Heaviside Layer and be reborn a new life.

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One of the most challenging aspects of planning CATS is that it does not have a traditional script.

Wiklanski and the cast embraced the challenge, delving into character research and development to create a cohesive and engaging narrative.

Similarly, to bring it to life, students will dance, sing and act.

“My vision for the choreography is to maintain the strength and form of the original while adding modern elements,” Wiklanski said.

The cast of the film includes Gracienne Swarbrick as Grizabella, Marot Sammartino as Munkustrap and Alex Wyant as Rum Tum Tugger.

“CATS is a show that demands triple threats and our students are a perfect fit,” Wiklanski said.

“They have the strength in dance, vocal skills and acting ability needed to bring this performance to life.”

CATS opened April 17 at the Chrysler Theatre, 201 Riverside Dr. W.

Show Wednesday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with a regular show on Saturday at 2 p.m

Tickets are $20, $10 for students, available at chryslertheatre.comby phone at 519-252-6579 or at the box office.

jkotsis@postmedia.com

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