I think it would follow logic that ANY show that runs for 18 years would be popular with tourists. If it were only popular with New Yorkers it would run for a season and close.
Broadway isn't "Broadway" because of New York audiences alone. That would just be "regional theatre" then.
I agree that because it's a "mood piece" and the music is catchy the show can succeed (if it's danced and acted by a particularly adept cast) without much understanding of the English language. It would come off more as a curious dance recital with a big set and some cool effects. But the T.S. Elliott poetry is probably this show's most unique feature. If you take away the words, you take away the main draw of what makes this special and unique. I've heard people complain that they couldn't (physically) understand the words, particularly on the various tours. That, to me, is a tragedy and the kiss of death for anyone trying to embrace this show. Well, that's a given. No show can last in NYC without the tourist dollars. I also agree that Eliot's words were the best and most unique, aspect of the show.
However, I'd wager that most of the folks that went to see CATS, especially in the last years, really couldn't have cared less about TS Eliot's poetry. They went because it was a show they recognized, one they could watch and understand without a translator, and one that was suitable for all ages.
Updated On: 4/9/06 at 11:12 AM
